Suggestions for buying a bike for commuting I've decided what kind of bike I want (light hybrid with straight handlebars),
but have no idea how to chose a brand/model.

What questions do I ask at the shop?
Which brands are good?
Am I paying too much for brand-value?
Am I paying for things I don't need? (Carbon Fiber fork...)


What are the things I should look out for in particular?

Another thing I find difficult is that they don't let you try out the bike except  in the shop (and without the pedals attatched).
Check out:

For a long (25mile each way) commute, what kind of bike should I look at?

What bike+equipment for a long daily urban commute?

How do I change a road bike into a commuter bike?

Relative efficiency of different commute bike setups

Equipping a commuter bike

What is the narrowest tire you would use for commuting?

(And others)