Some good advice here (all of it).
Originally Posted by
fietsbob
Pick the Bike shop you like doing business with, then Get a Bike from them..
brands are many but "all things being equal the will be ", as far as the Bottom Line.
I agree visit a few bike shops. Talk to the people on the floor. The most helpful sales assistant will win you over. If they don't sell you this (first) bike, bet they sell you your next one. And all the accessories for what ever you do start with.
Originally Posted by
sail
Nothing you originally said indicated any preference for mountain bike abilities, ditch that LBS. They should listen to you and give guidance, at this point you may not know what to ask for. You are in a metro area, go to several bike shops and ride some bikes.
When I re-entered the world of bike's at age 56. I visited all the bike shops in our small city (pop 106,000). I get a real comfortable feeling from the older life-long cyclist on the sales floor. But, I get a great amount of respect from the young (20-30's) folks. Their youth, excitement, and a tremendous amount of very current experience is valuable.
I tend to agree on the fixed front fork Hybrid. Planning on upgrading with-in a year or two is a realistic point of view. Others have suggested ride a lot, I agree. You will see what people are using, and enjoying. As you get to know the bike shops, and their staff, your next bike will find you! It may be a suspension bike, who knows.
Enjoy your self, hope this may help.
-Snuts-