I just moved, and all around my new area there are bike trails/paths. I live by a lake and there are literally miles and miles of dedicated bike paths. I am also interested in riding my bike to the park and ride (bus stop) when I work night shifts 4 nights a month, and it is about 8 miles from my home. I can wear sweats or shorts and a t-shirt to work, so attire isn't really a big issue. I am looking for a bike that I can enjoy around the neighborhood and area, as well as ride the 8 miles to the bus stop a couple of nights a month. I am kind of excited about the whole bike thing, and want to find something that will suit my needs. I would really like to stay below the 500 dollar range, so my wife won't freak out. I might have to get her a bike too, so thats why I'd like to keep the price reasonable. I have seen a couple that I like, but I would really like some input from the experienced folk. I would hate to spend 500 bucks on the wrong type of bike. I would mainly be riding on paved (streets) and pebble (jogging track) paths. Probably little or no offroad. I am 5'6 and weigh about 230 (athletic) pounds. I have been a baseball catcher for many, many years (just want to give you an idea of my build). I guess my main question to all would be, for what I am using the bike for, is it even necessary for me to purchase a 500 dollar bike to piddle around on and make the 8 mile commute a couple times a month?

Thanks, and sorry for the long first post

Adolph Postel