Don't know about the USAthese days. {we are discouraged from visiting these days due to intensity of immigration control.} But here in the UK you can buy some beautifully made, older steel road bikes, that, if in good condition will give you a good start in cycling and will serve you well for years to come. One of my bikes is an 80s Raleigh Sprint Racer. In superb condition and picked up for £40. I have used it in all conditions on and off road and it has never let me down and will take a hell of a lot of luggage and not complain, plus it only weighs about 23lb. I recently borrowed my brothers new Hybrid and thought "this is a nice bike". Until I got back on the Raleigh and realised how light and responsive this old bike was. Comfortable and a joy to ride and little financial risk if you decide it is not for you.

Jim