I plan on buying a new bike in the near future. I come from the typical CCM/hardware store type of bike, and I want quite the upgrade. I have always enjoyed biking quite a bit and am willing to invest the money to finally get something nice. I would be described as someone who would be using his bike for recreational use, fitness, and the occasional commuting. I think I would like at some point to get involved in some mild trekking. So while recreational use and fitness would be the primary use, I am making the purchase with commuting and trekking in mind...but they are somewhat secondary. I would say the terrain is mostly street....but there would be potholes, occasional curbs to negotiate.

Long story short the advice I am getting is a hybrid type of bike but seem to have conflicting views on "shocks". Again remember where I am coming from so almost anything I'd be on will feel much nicer. That said I also have never known the benefits of shocks so its not like I would miss them persay if I never get them. I imagine I am not the type to be super concerned that every ounce of energy I use is translated into motion, so as a novice its hard for me to imagine 4-5 lbs making that much of difference. That said generally I do enjoy working up to a good speed.

Any thoughts?
Thanks(new to the forum)