Originally Posted by
APBurner
Well I am BIG but not really tall. I am 5'11" and weight in as of this morn at 271lbs / 123kg. So the Trek will not handle my bulk? I am looking at a price range somewhere south of $500USD
You should be fine! Probably the most likely problem you could expect is a rear spoke breaking, which the bike shop can deal with no problem. The low bottom gears on hybrids are especially good for going uphill at any fitness level.
For commuting there are a few universal things on the to-do list, and we all have our own preferred ways to solve each of them. Lockup, baggage, clothes, food, inclement weather, darkness, breakdowns. You can be prepared for them, or have a backup plan, your choice.