It seems as though things have worked their way around to something that is not very different in general layout (but perhaps not build quality) than what
MRT2 suggested in his first post:
If you are looking for cheap, get a used bike. Something like an old Trek, Cannondale, or Giant hybrid or multi track bike. Or Specialized, Bianchi, Fuji, Jamis, or Kona. Basically any bike that was sold at a bike shop. Or even a hard tail mountain bike. Something like a Trek 7xx, 8xx, or 9xx, for example. They key here is look for something quality but simple. No suspension fork, simple V brakes, solid wheels. Look for Cro Moly steel, or aluminum frame. 7 speed is OK. 8 speed is even better.
(Yes, yes, I understand that there's a big difference between what you can "click and order" and what would require hunting/finding/fixing.)