I am wondering what everyone thinks of the diamonback edgewood and buying a bike from Dicks sporting goods.I also wanted to know what is everyones opinion on the rapid fire vs twist shimano shifters are the rapid fire worth the extra money or just st hype? Thank you in advance for the replies

Depends on what you looking for, from the bike. I had DB edgewood, it's comfortable bike for commute on road and can handle little bit of off road (I used it on trails). Recently I bought DB overdrive 2014 from Dicks Sporting good, got a good deal ($280). If you are looking for more, have look at nashbar bikes. They are selling for pretty cheap price, the DB trace sport will cost you 360 and if you pay by american express card you get 35 back.

I am going to be mostly road and walking/bike paths no heavy off roading here.. Looking to be up to 20-25 mile rides by end of summer and 4-5 times a week weather permitting. . Also easy riding with my 8 yr old daughter... have been looking at all bikes and loath walmart I love there roll me to the register deal .I would love to ask how am I supposed to do that with flat tires? I mean might as well buy it in the box and just put together your self. Dicks seems pretty desent all bikes are ready to go and they have bike repair on site. Any suggestions or experiences would be helpful we only have one LBS in town and not really sure they also sell river rafting supplies as well..

Dicks is a nice place to buy a bike. I purchased all DB's for my kids and a Wildwood prior to getting a performance hybrid. The rapid fire shifters are better than the twist grip. Twists are a PITA! Get the bike you are most comfortable with, fits within your budget, and lasts you a long time!