new to cycling

Originally Posted by CindySue48

I'm 5'8" and want an "all purpose" bike. I'll initially be riding mostly in the neighborhood, but eventually would like to go on some of the trails around here. I'm in Durham NC.

I know not to buy a cheap bike....or I'd already have one....but I also don't want to spend a small fortune! I have back and neck problems, so I think I'll need a bike that will allow me to sit more upright.

Also, I have NEVER ridden a bike with hand breaks and speeds.....any advice on where I can read up on this?

Any and all advice greatly appreciated!

Originally Posted by MoBentRdr

With back & neck problems, you may well want to consider a recumbent type of bike. For more information on recumbents, see www.bentrideronline.com . Cyclegenius (www.cyclegenius.com) and Suncycles/easy racers (www.easyracers.com , EZ line) both make decent bikes at a somewhat reasonable price (keep in mind, that recumbents tend to be more expensive than the traditional Diamond Frame (DF) bikes). If looking at recumbents, take a close look at the Compact Long Wheelbase category. Also, use the buyer's guide on the bentrider web site (enter CLWB under the configuration box). These are probably the best for your situation, considering your physical issues and limited riding experience.

If you prefer to get a traditional Diamond Frame type, you should focus your search on what are known as hybrids.

These recommendations are assuming the trails you plan to ride are mild ones, and not hard core mountain bike trails.

Originally Posted by CindySue48

Thanks for the info....I really can't see myself on a recumbent bike....lower back I think would protest too much.

Now....any advice on helmet? other gear I should have?

Thanks again, Cindy

Originally Posted by MoBentRdr

I, and a number of others, switched to a recumbent because of back problems. Certain styles of recumbents give a lot of back support.

Helmets are a must. Water bottles are also important. After you get started, you body will tell you if you need other stuff like gloves, shoes, cycling shorts, jerseys, etc. I wouldn't bother with them until after you start riding.

Check to see if there is a local bike club (the bike shop can tell you) for Diamond Frame advice. I've been away from Diamond Frame bikes too long to give much help here, although Trek is considered a good name. To keep cost down, consider a good used bike (used bikes usually costs 35 - 70 cents on the dollar to new bikes, depending on age and usage).

Originally Posted by CindySue48

I have been trying for over a year now to get the $$ together to buy a bike. Now, due to a bonus at work, I'm finally going to be able to buy one!!!!

I'm 51 yrs old and haven't ridden since high school....except for a quick spin once on my kid's bike!

I'm 5'8" and want an "all purpose" bike. I'll initially be riding mostly in the neighborhood, but eventually would like to go on some of the trails around here. I'm in Durham NC.

I know not to buy a cheap bike....or I'd already have one....but I also don't want to spend a small fortune! I have back and neck problems, so I think I'll need a bike that will allow me to sit more upright.

Also, I have NEVER ridden a bike with hand breaks and speeds.....any advice on where I can read up on this?

Any and all advice greatly appreciated!

Originally Posted by Eden

Some more information that might be a bit more about your goals - what sorts of distances do you see yourself doing. Do you want to work up to organized rides or looking to be able to run errands around your neighborhood.
There are several types of bikes you might look at:

cruisers / comfort bikes - these are heavier and definitely meant for leisure / neighborhood errand type riding. The pluses are that they are often a bit less expensive than a good road or hybrid bike and they are less techinical to learn to ride. Bikes like the Electra Townie have an upright position (with electras you can even put your feet on the ground when seated on the saddle), coaster brakes and internal shifting hubs. They are definitely not meant for long distances or hills and may only have 3 or 7 speeds.

hybrids - hybrid bikes have an upright position much like a mt. bike, but are generally less heavy and can be outfitted with slick tires that make riding on pavement easier. They are usually a little heavier and slower than your typical road bike, but can be fine for riding fairly long distances once you are used to it.(the upright postition may put a little more than the desired pressure on your tushie for a long ride)

modified road bikes - bikes like the Trek Pilot and Specialized Sequoia are much closer to regular road bikes, but have a somewhat more upright riding position for people who have a hard time with tradtional road bike geometry. These are generally lighter and more responsive than the hybrids, but the position is definitely less upright. If you can tolerate the riding position this type of bike it might be a good choice for working up to longer orgainized riding or touring.

Good luck with your search and welcome - bicycling is a great sport!

Originally Posted by CindySue48

Thanks for the info Eden.

At this point, all I know is that I want a bike that I can initially ride around the neighborhood, but as I get more comfortable and in better shape, I'd like to go on longer rides. At the advice of another poster I'm going to check out the local bike clubs too.

There are several bike paths within 5 miles or so of my house....some are paved, others aren't. Once I get where I feel ok on the bike I'd like to check out a couple of the paths. Beyond that? who knows! I do live in a fairly hilly area, and while I want to work at riding....I don't want to be killing myself either!

I've been leaning towards the hybrid, simply because I figure it's the best choice for now. You mentioned with the cruiser I'd be able to put my feet on the ground.....that isnt' the case with the hybrids? or Mt bikes?

Originally Posted by CindySue48

You mentioned the seat....I've heard also that it's very important to wear bike shorts? even if they're worn under other pants.....to prevent chafing? Is that true? I've overweight, but not by that much (well, not as much as I was ).....but I understand butt padding has little to do with seat comfort?
Cindy

Originally Posted by CindySue48

Well, I got my check and I've been to the bike shops.

I have my choices:
1. Schwinn Comfort bike....not sure of model.
2. Specialised Expedition (wide tire hybrid) or 3. Crossroads (narrow tire hybrid)
4. Treks (?sp) 7200 or 5. Nav 100.....both are hybrids....one is wide tire, other is narrow tire.

They're all around the same price, I've seen the specialised and Schwinn (didn't like at all), going to check out the Treks tomorrow.

The stores that sell the specialised and treks are two in a chain. Either can get the bike I want, and both will service it. Comes with 1 full tune up after purchase, free basic service, abd discounted tuneups for lile.

Any comments? recomendations?

You've all been a lot of help! Thanks again!

Cindy

Originally Posted by carolinak

I just bought a Trek bike. I looked around for quite a while before I made my purchase. I looked at Specialized, Raleigh and the Trek. In the end I bought a Trek7100. The major difference between the 7100 and 7200 was the gear shifting. I couldn't tell that much of a difference and the cost was almost $100.

Like you I bought it to ride around town and hopefully eventually on some bike trails etc. I don't plan on doing any racing etc. Also with the Trek hybrid you can have the handle bars adjusted so you are sitting more upright or leaning further down, whichever is more comfortable for you back.

So far I am really enjoying my bike and am happy with the purchase.

Originally Posted by CindySue48

Thanks for your help. How long have you been riding? How's it going?

Are you in NC? I'm in Durham....you?

Cindy