thank you everyone for all your advice. i will go through all the links. that mamachari looks nice! i did not know they usually come with electrical assist. and I did see that uk website that sells them, but yes the shipping to us is killah. I was so hoping one of the local bike shops carried them but if their quality can vary then I will keep my search open to other suggestions too. plus i am not sure if i want the electrical assist. someone at work did suggest I get a cruiser from Walmart but part of my commute goes up so I thought I would need more gears? the bike shop near me carries liv so I will go check it out one day. they are out of bikes in my size right now. I would consider buying used. bottom line though is I have no idea how to gauge a good bike from a bad one. the bike shop people seem pretty honest though and i think they will also give good advice. i will re-read all your responses too. i am in no rush. tk you again!