I have the Trek 7.2 fx , it's my second one (the previous one was hit by a car and the frame became untrue - I was on the bike when it was hit but there were no injuries to me). I highly recommend the 7._ fx line to any beginner. They're sturdy bikes with very reasonable components considering the price.

I also have a fast road bike but I just went for a 50 km ride on the fx. I call it my "truck". I use it for commuting, and whenever I need to carry stuff (panniers). Works great on pretty much any surface, including gravel and dirt trails.