Decent beginner bike between $300-$500?

[kamikazejane]

If you've seen me around the forums you probably know what I ride. It's a junkie old roadbike. It's got two wheels and shifts so I'm content at the moment. However, once I get a better paying job, I'd like to get a new bike. One that isn't rusted and something mechanically sound. The problem is, even when I get a new job, the priority won't be the funds for a new bicycle so I won't have a lot to work with. Seeing as I'm new and really just going for fitness in my cycling and nothing else, I can't bring myself to spend more than $500 on a bike. Preferably $300-$500, but $500 would really be my limit. Am I asking too much? I've seen a lot of coments on here about bikes and it seems like they're almost always in the triple digits price wise. What do you think? Advice on brands to look into and links would be wonderful!

Thanks!

Sent you a PM. Looking to sell my Felt.

[rivergal]

I sold my old Felt entry level for a price in that range, so not impossible. Kamikazejane's Felt would be worth considering.