Fubar, I'm on the same boat as you. I want a bike that can take some abuse from the city, but I like the speed of a road bike. I've looked into several bikes, but it's pretty hard to decide.

I don't want a mt. bike because the most off roading I'll be doing is in Central Park (which a hybrid can do quite easily).

Before you make up your mind, have you thought of flat bars vs. drops? Someone had brought this to my attention and says drops will be your choice if you do most of your riding on the street. It offers more hand positions and you will be more comfy.

But goodluck to you. It's good to see a responsible kid earning hard earned cash (I was in your shoes just a few years back...but it was for a car). Opps, sorry, you can't drink yet