I understand what ur sayn. However, I just don't see how payn more 4 a cheap suspended fork is going 2 improve ur overall riding experience. Although an Altus rear derailleur is better than a Tourney RD, it's not that much better. I almost feel as though u'd b better off with a single speed. IMO, if u have no hills, that'll b the way 2 go.

If u have no major hills, then get a single speed like one of these:
www.performancebike.com/bikes/Product_10052_10551_1129145_-1_400317__400317

...Comes with coaster brakes just like the old Cruisers of the '50s

www.performancebike.com/bikes/Product_10052_10551_1116213_-1_400317__400317

www.nashbar.com/bikes/Product_10053_10052_557556_-1_202614

No cheap shifters. No cheap suspended fork. No cheap derailleurs. Less maintenance. Less cash spent. Less headache. Greater overall riding experience (without hills).

Easy & Simple

If u do have a few hills, then give this one a try:
www.rei.com/product/854939/schwinn-city-ig3-bike-2012-closeout

and no brakes. oooh, wait, tis got a COASTER brake, oh yeah.

even if you live where its totally flat, there's headwinds where you'll want a lower gear, tail winds where you'll want a higher one.

Heh, lots of conflicting opinions in this thread. As for Altus vs. Alivio .. I have Altus on my bike and it functions fine. When it wears out, I'll upgrade to Alivio. Should get a few thousand miles at least before that happens.