Try a Trek 7.5 fx or higher at a bike shop. It's a hybrid that is lighter and w thinner, slicker tires than most hybrids. I have an older model of the Trek 7.5FX and I've done centuries and a week-long AIDS ride on it.

You might be able to get a break on the price at this time of year. Or it would give you a good sense of what to look for in a used bike.

Who knows, you may be upgrading to a road bike before you know it!