recommend me a solid 7-9 speed city/hybrid bike
 

My brother's getting married in a few months and I'm thinking I may get he and the wifey a pair of bikes. Their city is dead flat, so I'm looking for something between 7 and 9 speeds (one front chainring), in the neighborhood of $500. Something like the Kona Dew would be ideal if it didn't have a triple up front. I prefer this kind of frame, rather than a cruiser like Electra makes. Anyone have any suggestions? Much appreciated...

There are too many to list. Look at Trek, Cannondale, Specialized, Kona, etc. The Specialized Globe and Globe Sport certainly look interesting and fit the bill.

Respectfully, if you're buying bikes as a gift, it doesn't matter what kind of bike *you* like. Buy and give what the recipients would like.

err do they even ride? if not you might be buying them about 1500 bucks worth of wall ornaments

Thanks for the replies.
To clarify, when I say "I prefer" I am talking about what preferences I've gleaned from my brother. He does want a bike, and his little lady is a big fitness buff who he says also needs a new one, but has been busy planning (and spending for) his wedding. When he visits me we go ride on an easy trail system and he loves my SS mtn bike (similar to a Redline Monocog). But I think having some gears will benefit him.
I did some more research last night and think that a Redline D440 might do the trick. 29er (he's tall), 8-spd, rigid. Will keep looking for her.

How about the Kona Smoke?

gift certificate/card from the LBS?
sothey can pick their own

Bianchi Milano?

Swobo Otis. Little pricier,but the 3sp hub is low maintenance,as is the rear coaster brake. Has room for knobbie tires if they want to do some light trails,will take rear rack and fenders. Light and tough,and doesn't look fancy enough to steal.