Well I just discovered the "commuters useful thread index" sticky and it looks like I will spend a couple of hours going through all the info there.. thanks for the replies so far.. I get the feeling make and model of bike is going to matter much less than how it fits me personally.. and durability may be all about preventative maintenance and upkeep.. but, is it feasible to get a 200 dollar schwinn and expect it to last if treated properly?

I can already tell this is going to take a huge amount of effort but I think it will pay off.

Thank you for the warm welcomes!