I've been recently looking, after having not sought a new bike in 15+ years.

One that has caught my eye is the Giant Escape City (W/women's, or men's). It's MSRP $550, but you can typically find it well under $500. Seems to be a good value, with a triple crank, reasonable components, rack + fenders.

The Giant Rove 3 might also suit you. It's roughly similar to the Escape series, but with a suspension shock/fork, less city rack/fenders of the Escape City.



I've also ridden the Jamis Commuter 3. Decent bike, for the category. Mine wasn't fit very well, as it was the only one on the floor to test ride, but otherwise it seemed fine. The JC 3 had a Shimano Nexus 7spd internal hub, full fenders, rear rack. The 3 will be above $600 (MSRP $750), but the 2 will be around $500.

Consider the Trek Allant 7 as well, if the Jamis Commuter suits you. Similar format. The "top" trim model in the line is north of $600 MSRP, but you might find it quite a bit less. All have fenders. The top trim has a rack, better components.

Personally, in this "commuter" category, my strong preference is for the Breezer Uptown series of bikes. They're heavier, by quite a bit generally, but IMO the ride quality and feel is a step up. Feels more solid, more stable, less "buzz." Up through the 2007 model year, it was the "old" Breezer company, though they've been owned by others since 2008. Nice line-up of bikes, though. Uptown, Uptown Fleet, Downtown. Depending on your pricing, which components/gearing you want. All are configured for the city/commuting type usage, with fenders, rear rack. These have been around awhile, too. You can generally find several on Craigslist or eBay at any given time, for sub-$500.


Which particular model and frame size depends on your height, leg length, whether you want a standard frame shape, a step-over/thru design, etc.