Help me pick a bike for commuting
 

I'm gonna be in college next year and would like a bike for commuting to places on or around campus. I don't have my own bike and really just use my parents for rides right now. Campus is relatively flat with a few hills. Bike theft, as you all know, is an issue on college campuses so I want something relatively cheap so if it gets stolen, it won't . I don't trust eBay or Craigslist and have placed much focus on Bikes Direct. I was thinking a single-speed/fixed gear because it is simple and doesn't look as flashy so less likely to be stolen. However, BD does have some road/cross bikes for cheap as well so I am also open to that. I want drop handlebars with hoods and brake levers because I don't like flats and brakes are a necessity. I would also like something with a more relaxed geometry (not too hunched over) so that I can ride comfortably and be able to turn and see traffic easily. Fender comparability is important to me as well as the ability to mount a water bottle.

I really don't know much about bikes but I've been reading and reading for weeks, trying to decide on a bike. I understand bikes direct makes you assemble yourself and that is not much of a problem; I may just pay my LBS to assemble for me. I would really like some advice on which bike to get or even better, things I should be looking for, things to avoid, etc.

Thanks for helping out a newbie like myself

Check to see if Campus Security has a Bike Auction of bikes left behind by last years Students.


and see if any near Campus Bike shops have Used Bikes they got from people
that didn't want them after graduation.

I'd do that before the new year's students start showing up.

Fixed gear bikes are very trendy. In a university area, I would expect them to be more likely to be stolen, compared to geared bikes.

craigslist isn't that bad. just be careful of who you call is all. i got mine from CL.