I don’t really have the money to replace my bike, but I will be using it every day soon and I want to have something road worthy.
I may start looking for used, but I need help deciding what to look for:
I like (need) a comfort saddle (like the kind you find on Specialized Comfort bikes).
I like to lean forward a bit (not ride in upright position).
I ride in the city, on pavement that is smooth (but for they occasional crack or bump).
Sometimes I ride hard and I desire performance; I use my bike for exercise and less often transportation (though that may be changing).
I enjoy my current ride: a cheap Specialized hybrid (comfort/mountain), but it’s kind of boring, not enough balls I might say.
Specific models would be great (but keep the MSRP under $500).