My SO loved a rather high end Giant. That level seems to have only been produced for a short while. But it did show that there are some very nice hybrids built. Stiff, light frames with decent wheel sets and good components. She put many, many miles on it before transitioning to a Specialized Dolche.
On the spandex, the easiest way to comfortable bicycling clothes for males, they make marvelous mountain bike shorts w/ built in shorts. I've seen in bike stores (female only so far) chamois undies...
For a long time I just wore gym shorts over bike shorts...