Hi all! New to the forum...new to the sport. Got another "help me pick a bike" plea... please don't hurt me So I've done a number of test rides as suggested. Problem is, every bike feels the same... that is waaaay better than my old Schwinn Le Tour. Here's my cycling plans-bike paths and roads of all sorts including gravel, distances but not for speed and probably never over 50 miles at once, focus on CV fitness and the occasional grocery store trips and riding around historical areas. Fitness is the biggie. I'm pretty hard core when I get into something (downhill skier, sailor etc.) but my body doesn't appreciate it. Can't do the drop handle position without pain bad enough to suffer a breakfast reversal. Skinny tires are out and I like a more upright position but will NEVER place my butt on a comfort bike. So long story short, too many choices and not enough experience.I finally had to just stop looking so as not to make it even harder. As a result I think I've narrowed it down to the Specialized Globe (not the city version) vs. the Trek7.3FX. Plan on swapping the pedals for the Shimano ones that clip on one side and are flat on the other. Any words of wisdom regarding the above bike choices. Oh the other thing is the Specialized is nearly identical to the Trek but is $100 cheaper and the LBS that has it is basically down the street from me. Good news is I found a great deal on shoes and a cool new pair of sunglasses LOL. Talk about putting the cart before the horse...got the shoes; got the glasses; need the wheels!
Thanks in advance-Lynne