We bought the GF's bike at Dick's, a Diamondback Hybrid w/ 700 wheels and front suspension. Assembly was very good (they have their own shop in this store) and when we went for a ride, it rode perfect. Dick's give a year warranty and nothing ever went wrong with the bike.
My experience is nothing like a big box store experience, esp ones like Walmart. I even spoke with the guy that put the bike together for her, he knows bikes. I would recommend Dick's for a bike all day long!