what should I look for in a bike?

Question
Hi Michael.  I'm 52 and newly back to biking.  I purchased a used Murray bike and have gone from riding a 3 mile stretch to 10 miles with ease.  I'm looking to get my first "real" bike, but before I invest in that, I wanted to check with you about what I should be looking at.  I will be riding mainly bike paths (paved and crushed), very little on-road biking, have to cart the cycle up a flight of stairs daily, and do not like the position of having to lean forward as I'm heavy (200 lbs at 5'3") and find the weight on my wrists and forearms is tiring and uncomfortable.  My routine will eventually be a morning ride of 15 miles on a daily basis along with occasional just-for-fun rides.  I want to be riding in all the seasons (winter included) on the paths.  I work out at the gym with a trainer for strength training, hike, camp, and swim (sort of).  I need to lose weight, want to become more fit and do love to ride.  Right now my pace is slow (averaging 7.5 mph).  My most important considerations are that the bike is comfortable and reliable.  My local bike shop has recommended a Trek 7300.  I've done some online research but am not certain I know enough to make an informed decision and I don't want to just rely on 1 person's opinion.  I'd appreciate hearing your thoughts.

Answer
Hello Evelyn,

Thanks for asking me this question, whereby I'll hope to give you a good answer. First I read that you've like trails/paths and there you can ride with 32-38 millimeter tires (cross of hybrid/commuter tyres). I can also suggest that you can look out for a mountainbike, but when you also ride more on pavements you can easily ride a Trek 7300. This is a so called crosshybrid (between a road and mountainbike). Offers a great way of comfort with the right tyres (35 millimeter of more - especially with latex innertubes). For you style of riding this is a great bike, good build quality and nice parts who keep on riding with the right maintenance of your local bike store. You can also take a look for some other brand's (for example Giant or Specialized or even Cannondale offers a couple of nice (commuter)bikes for you. Only if they fit in your budget?
When your more experienced and can ride more miles, you can always look for a possible lighter frameset/bike.
This one in petticular will do good for now.

I'll hope that this answer will have your approval :-)

Kind regards and happy trails on your new bike.

Michael