Yep get a good bike mate makes the world of difference, and you don't need to spend to much. I spent $500 but have saved that several times as I ride it to work. I just got a flat bar road bike (race is over the top). It is comfortable, quick, light and smooth. And yes just tryes make the biggest difference in my opinion. Mine has tyres which are about 2/3" wide and basically slick with slight grooves. Even with these (I am know quite fit) it is tyring when the pressure is down in them to like 20-30psi. Pump them up close to the recommended pressure of about 70psi and wow so much easier.
I have the one of these but the 2008 model I think.
http://www.malvernstar.com.au/range/bike-2677.aspx