Bicycle questions

[Deleted]

A few months ago we moved into a very bike-friendly neighborhood in a small city.  I've never been much of a bicycle rider (other than renting bikes on vacation, so I do know I can ride one!) but more and more I'm thinking I want one for things like biking to yoga, the library, small errands, etc (all withing 10 miles roundtrip most likely).  Our area is pretty flat, maybe some hills but nothing too significant.  We have several local bike shops with good reputations, and I've been trying to do some research before I go in there.  I'm definitely wanting to buy used or on the inexpensive side as this is a new venture and my use will be pretty casual, but I'm not sure where to start.  I checked out craigs list but there is so much there that I don't even know where to start.

Any recommendations on brands, styles, specific questions to ask re: new or used bikes?  Thanks in advance.

[sadlebred]

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