Hi all, I'm looking to break into bike commuting here in Brooklyn, New York. Plus, I've got a toddler and would love to haul her around with me. She's about 2.5 years old and seems pretty amped to start going for rides.

On most days I'd drop her off at daycare before heading into Manhattan, so I'm looking for something that can handle the grind of city commuting with the safety and stability of carting a kid on the back.

I'm thinking a hybrid is probably the most logical choice, for the upright ease and safety, but curious what others thought. I haven't purchased a bike in many many years, so I'm a relative newbie to the whole market.

Ideally, I'd keep the bike sub $800 so I can put some money to a good kid seat and other relevant accoutrements.

I've been lurking on this thread for a few days and have been really impressed with both the range of knowledge and the friendly ways in which it's doled out, so I thought I'd put it to you experts!

Recommends from a LBS:

-Kona Dew Plus
-Giant Escape

Thanks for any and all thoughts!