Originally Posted by NormanF

You might look at the Rans Citi, the Electra Townie Sport and Trek Pure Sport as alternatives to the road bike. There are hybrids that combine speed and comfort with an upright position and a crank forward geometry. You no longer need to choose between one and the other to go out riding. The reason to throw other bikes into the mix is well even though you have you heart set on the Jamis Coda, you'll want to do a lot of test riding to be sure its what you're looking to buy. Good luck!