Cool, how is the loop? You should bike up to prospect park, they've got a pretty good 3 mile loop there. I've been meaning to go down there with my gf to the golf driving range. I think it's on the other side of the belt, you know how to get there?

As far as bikes are concerned, how much are you thinking of spending? Generally, on most streets, if you can bike at 20-25mph, you can join the cars in traffic. The middle of the lane is a lot cleaner and smoother than the sides.