Assistance picking a distance / touring / hybrid bike

Question
Hi - I'm looking for a flat handlebar, upright bike - that is fast, nimble, and has a very wide range of gears and fits somewhere between $500 and $1000.  Expect to break it in on a 165 mile 2-day charity bike ride and need it to compensate for not being in perfect shape. Down the road I might like to use it for some distance touring. Would greatly appreciate if you could point me in the right direction for 3 - 5 options --- with your thoughts and recommendations greatly appreciated.  Expect mostly road use - with some urban and neighborhood riding.  Thank you tremendously for your help. ~ Dennis

Answer
From what I know your options are fairly limited. When you talk touring and long distance you are not talking hybrid and upright handlebars. The advantage of drop handlebars is that you can vary your position over the long haul relieving the strain on your hands, arms and shoulders. You can add bar ends to a flat bat that will provide some flexibility, but not the same.

Uprights are also not very fast since they are designed more for comfort than speed. They do tend to be wide geared. but with an emphais on the low gears not the high ones.

Your best bet is to check a few stores in your area and see what they recommend.

HTH
Scott<>