Looking for suggestions for a beginner bike

Question
I am looking for a couple of suggestions for a beginner
bike...mostly for fitness, the knees just can't take runnng anymore.  
I aim to bike mostly on the streets within my neighborhood (about
20-30 miles every other day).  I am guessing that a hydrid would
be best for me.  A good, comfortable seat is very important to me.  
I was hoping to spend less than $500.  

Thank you very much.  

Answer
You should be able to get a decent bike in that range if you are looking for a hybrid. I'm assuming you are lookig to ride alone (not in a club) and at a C pace (10-14mph).

Trek Cannondale, Giant all have decent models in that range. You are looking for something 26x1.75 tires or narrower, not the wider knoby tires more suitable for dirt.

Shop around bike shops in your area to see what they have to offer.

HTH
Scott<>