Bike preferences on commuting?

I've done a little research on different types of bikes for commuting.

I'm kind of into the Trek 7.5 hybrid, supposedly its really great and cost around 500?
OR
A touring bike? I don't know a lot about those so a recommendation would be excellent.

Here's the thing, I will be using my bike to go to work, college, grocery shopping and the point it will be my main mode of transportation for a good long while.

I'd like a fast bike for when Im late or just need to get to class on time, i'll be carrying books so something thats durable enough to carry a semi heavy load. I've heard that steel works best because its strong but aluminum is faster..?

Uhm..I'm 5'10'' and 160 lbs I dont know if it matters getting a custom fit bike or not.

People have told me to go with a hybrid so that I can both go on dirt roads or concrete/asphalt. They also mentioned that touring bikes are a little hard to get used to due to the low bike handles.

My budget is under a 1000 and I will need a dependable bike for I am to use this for a long, long time.

Lastly do you recommend I get a used or new? How can I tell if the bike I'm getting used is good or not? I really dont want to get swindled into buying a thousand dollar bike that I really dont need from a sly bike salesmen.
 
Back
Top