So, me and my 10 yr old Sears $99 bike have been having great fun! After years of casual family riding and occasional periods of "I have to get in shape" 3-4 mile rides I have started riding in earnest. I am only doing 7-8 miles at a time but hoping to work my way up. I know my bike is an issue, those hills are killing me! I ride in the street and when I can find a partner (not too often, any LI'ers want to ride trails with me? One by my house runs from Cold Spring Harbor to Merrick Rd, Massapequa). So I just got shorts and jersey real cheap at Sierra (on sale, with coupon etc) and LOVE THEM! Riding is much nicer with bike shorts (thanks to this forum I got good shorts and which not only avoids irritation but is a lot cooler) . The jersey has net underarms which is also cooler (Sheebest) and I "look the part now". Anyway, I had to share cause I am excited !

I want to hit a couple of bike shops this weekend to search for a hybrid that will do roads and trails for around $500, any ideas?