hey, im new to all this. I'm heading for college in san francisco and am in DC right now. I'm looking for a commuter bike that I could use to get around and to work out with. any suggestions? budget around 400-500 dollars. thanks

I am looking at an Electra Townie Original 7D. Rode one today for the first time and it is really comfortable. I am going to slap on fenders and a rear rack to make it commute-a-licious. They make a 21 speed if you plan on riding fast.

Your budget is good for a new, good quality commuter BUT if the university is a high bike-theft zone that's quite a lot. In high crime areas I would prefer to ride a decent older bike bought used. Include rack, fenders and light, bags and lock in your budget.

You need to know your distance, terrain and load before chosing a bike. SF has some steep hills so you may need a triple chainring.

Any std, non-suspension hybrid will do the job as will touring and road-sport bikes. Road race bikes are probably too highly geared and lack rack/fender eyelets.

Decide what you want to do with the bike when your not commuting: riding local roads or trails. If trail riding is your thing, an MTB will do dual duty.