Posting for a friend; feel free to reply to me with what you've got.

Looking for a commute-able bike for 5'10" relative newbie; budget $500 or
less
Prefer flat bar
Must allow for fenders and rack
Must be geared, though single/double/triple ring, internal/external gearing
all fine.

Got an old ccx bike or hybrid lying around?

Cheers,
JV