You're right to avoid the cheap bikes at Academy. I bought 2 of those over a period of several years and they were so unpleasant to ride they both eventually rusted away in my garage. Then I bought an Electra Cruise, realized that I loved cycling and it changed my life.

My Electra Cruiser 1 was just $200, only $50 more than a bike I almost bought at Academy. My advice is to save up some money and buy the bike you enjoy riding.