OK, I was already thinking about this before reading MMM article on it, and now I'm seriously shopping for a hybrid bike. The last forum I saw on here was back in 2015, so thought I'd throw this out again. With so many choices out there, I'm confused as to what to get. My budget is $400-$600, as that seems to be a good price point for a decent bike I'll be happy with. I've looked at Fuji, Specialized, Trek, Marin, Jamis Coda (which I'm leaning towards), and others. Just can't decide. I do want one where I can adjust the handlebars and one friend keeps telling me no more than 2 front gear shifts, not 3. Not sure why. Oh, and he recommends not getting disc brakes because says you don't need them. Lastly, he said no suspension, but I have a bad back, so I'm questioning that. I will primarily ride on paved trails, but MAY do some light off road stuff eventually. Thoughts?