Personally, I think that there is some merit to WSD and disagree that it is marketing hype. The important thing is to get fitted - at least for me, the WSD DEFINITELY makes a difference. My friend and I each got a new road bike - he got a Trek 2.3 and I got the Trek 5.2 WSD. We both got fitted at the store, and were told 54cm is our size.

My LBS gave me a very thorough fitting. I will say that this bike fits me like a glove - there was no breaking in period needed at all. I have never experienced pain anywhere since riding this bike. Even on my first 2.5 hour long ride I rode pain free. I tried my friend's bike, and it made a huge difference - I found his bike extremely uncomfortable. Now this is anecdotal, but to me it is good enough proof that I needed the WSD, and that the WSD makes a difference to me and is not just marketing hype.

Anyway, getting back to the OP's question, I would recommend a road bike (I've ridden hybrids, mountain bikes, commuters, and touring bikes). My roadie is my first ever (bought it a month or so ago) and it is the most fun I've had on a bike for a while! Also, it helps to know what your budget is.