Don't let the "51-year-old man" get in the way of your buying the bike you really want.

Some folks have the idea that those above some unknown certain age should get "old-folks" bikes. Sort of like buying a Buick or a Mercury when you really want a sleek sports car.

I bought my Lemond Buenos Aires at age 59, 5 years ago, and it and I are still going strong.

I LOVE the feel of ease and speed and smoothness and quiet. As close to flying like a bird as I think you can get on the ground.

My brakes have always worked great - wet or dry, although we don't have nearly as much "wet" here as you do!

You might also consider a cyclocross bike.

Some folks like Bents.

Hey, get whatever REALLY TURNS YOU ON!

In the past 5.5 years, I have about 8,500 miles on the Lemond, and about 8,000 miles on a mtn bike, and another 1,500 miles on my "kick around" (meaning cheaper) road bike.

IMHO, for me, I wouldn't get a hybrid. It is a compromise bike, meaning it is good for bike paths and light riding, but I wouldn't take it seriously.

Above ALL, the bike must fit you well. Really important. A good LBS can help immensely here.