I've been years without a bike. My father still has his MTB. Although I believe it is too big for him (he's 5'3). I have very little knowledge on bikes. I'm about 5'9, 31" inseam. 18" frame on 26" wheels. I like the feel even if I could bump the size up bit.
Cutting to the chase.. I simply want a road bike. I prefer the minimal/simple look of a fixie but with only a few gears (as I rarely change it on my father's bike). I'm just an average guy who likes to cruise around the neighborhood or park. Occasionally giving in a brief quick pedaling for a momentary fast ride.
My direction is to grab a road bike off Craigslist and giving it my personal taste. I dislike the look of the derailleur, so maybe an internal gear hub may do the trick? I have read up on gear ratios but still tends to be confusing as to what would feel right.