What should I look for when buying a bike?

The type of bike you need depends greatly on how many miles total you intend on doing in any given day. This will help determine what tire width will be more appropriate for your bike. More miles = thinner tire prefered. Fewer miles = wider tire optional. leisure riders generally want a wider tire such as a single speed cruiser (Nirve, Electra, or Schwinn) and you can even get a 3 speed in any of these too.

How many hills do you have to climb? This will determine if a single speed is practical or not; Hills= multi speed 7 or more and no hills 1 or 3 will work.

Plan on going long distances and have hills then multi geared with a narrow tire....

The brand you should get does not matter as much as WHERE you get it from. Go visit your local bike shops first. Yes the prices may seem higher than the local Wal Mart but remember this, Wal Mart is NOT a bike shop and you dont get service after the sale from them...You do however get a JUNK bike that wont last if you intend on using it alot and it will cost you more than you think it did originally when it was first purchased. You get what you pay for!

Hybid or comfort bike for relaxed riding on pavement and light trails. Good starter bike. Look for one with no front shock. Heavy and unnecessary.

A road bike for faster crusing on pavement. Lighter, but not as comfortable, and much more expensive.

Wipe nuts, bolts, and chromed parts down monthly to prevent rust. Lube the chain monthly if ridden often. Get a bike pump with a gauge and check pressure every week at least. The tires always leak a little air. Stock tires may not be, probably aren't, any good. Replace with good, puncture resistant tires.