What's a good kind/brand of bicycle to buy?

I like trek bikes, personally. I have two road bikes from them. They will fit you with the appropriate size bike. Try a hybrid (cross between road and mountain) bike. I have only had a test ride, but it was comfortable and fun.

If your close enough to work to ride a bike and your new to cycling, I think you should look into a "comfort" bike. Most comfort bike you pedal flat footed and you can stay on the seat when you stop. Most good bike shops have them and they are not very expensive. You can also find them at places like Wal-Mart. But if you go to a local bike shop they can fit you to the bike and will take care of you after the sale if your not comfortable on the bike. Most bike shop will give you 6 months to a years worth of tune ups and fittings. Good luck

do some comparison shopping. know your spending limit. visit your local bike shops. tell them what you are looking for.they will help you with choises.take test rides.visit shop with new/used cycles.as an entry level biker you can get a used bike for your needs, see how it works for you and if you really enjoy it then upgrade. if not your investment will not be as much as it would if you spent money on a new bike and then decided riding wasnt for you.