So, someone was asking me why I wanted a hybrid and not a road bike.
For those of you who don't know me, I'm female, 49, usually very active, the last year have not been.
I have the opportunity to ride with my son in law across a lot of the country next year or in 2010, some will be on roads, some on trails. We are pretty flexible though, ie: when he's riding trail, I can still parallel him but on roads.
I will be training as soon as I get my bike, until we start.
I figured a hybrid would be good for off road riding, as well as roads, but I keep hearing I'll never get up hills, or very far, very fast on one!
I know a road bike will get me into shape quicker, and will be good for speed, distances, etc.
Here where I live, we have main roads, with wide shoulders, but so much truck and 55 mph limits, that I think I will be taking secondary roads more, which means chipped pavement, and sometimes fresh gravel.
I also have an aversion to low handlebars, but I know that once I am back in shape I'll be fine with them.

Also, I'm not crazy about spending too much money at my age, what happens if I find out I hate (I doubt it), or break something (me) or something hurts too much to ride anymore (I really hope not, I"m extremely excited about riding!) I was thinking $700.00 or under.
Does anyone have any recommendations based on all this info?
Any questions you want to ask just let me know!
Thanks everyone!