I started with a huffy mountain bike about 15 years ago. It weighed 30+ pounds and is just about impossible to ride on road hills. Last year, I decided to invest in a Raleigh Capri carbon composite bike-it's like riding a cloud. I can carry it in one hand, and (I think) It's so pretty I can't stand it. LOL.
I'd love to do the east end century, but cannot find anyone to do it with me-my husband is studying for the FDNY Captains exam, so all of his spare time is spent in the books. None of my friends bike. Out here by me the hills are HORRIBLE, and nobody is dedicated enough to want to brave them.
In 2 weeks is the cedar beach triathlon, I might do it, just to get into a groove of biking with people-and they close the roads. I'm lucky though-around my town they've started putting in loads of bike lanes, so I can feel a little safer.
Car drivers need to take classes on how to deal with bikes on the road. I've seen cars cut in front of bikes, like they have something to prove. My middle son will ride with me sometimes, but he rides a BMX bike and it's hard to keep up with a road bike.
For a beginner bike look on Craigslist. Many people buy nice hybrids then discover they don't like biking or want to upgrade-that's where the bargains come in. Learn how to change a tube and always have a little air pump with you (They mount right onto the bike!) Most of all-go slow and enjoy the scenery. Speed will come with time, get used to riding first.