Some good recommendations here already. I suggest that, if you're planning to commute to work, you look for a bike that has mounts for a rear rack. Being able to carry a change of clothes, lunch, etc. on the bike is much more comfortable than carrying it on your back IMO!

There are lots of choices when it comes to "hybrid bikes", because a hybrid can be a lot of different things, depending on geometry, gearing, tires, etc. Anywhere from a road bike with a straight handlebar to something more like a comfort bike. Personally, I'm not a big fan of suspension forks on hybrids, so I'd look for something like the Fuji Absolute series: http://www.fujibikes.com/LifeStyle/R...bsolute30.aspx Similar to the Trek FX series and the Specialized Sirrus series.

I'd go ride a whole bunch of different bikes at different shops. Ride different types of bikes just to get a sense of how they feel. A good salesperson IMO should ask you what kind of riding you do, where you ride, how long you ride (or plan to), etc. in order to get a good picture of you as a rider. The right commuter bike for me may not be right for you, and that's ok.

Good luck with your search, and let us know what you bring home!