Need Some Ideas

[Python]

He'll definitely have to try some for size as he had an op on his back several years ago and had part of 2 discs removed, so being comfortable and supported properly is very important.

[light_sabe_r]

I wouldn't worry about the weight issue too much, I saw a guy yesturday out riding in lycra who had one of the biggest beer guts I'd ever seen! But the first thing I thought was "GOOD ON YA MATE! get out there and give it a go..."

Then I realised he was riding a really funking looking cannondale! DAMN! SUCH a nice bike!

Your hubby has to get out there and try the bikes that are right for him. Because of his size I'd even suggest trying all sorts of different saddles as well (just like we girls do)

AND because of his back a hybrid or a flat bar roadie might be the way to go. You'r in a comfortable upright position instead of a haunch.

[Bad JuJu]

While he's hunting for a bike, you might turn him on to this book:
Heft on Wheels
I haven't read it, but know a couple of guys who have, and they highly recommended it.

Have fun with the new adventure!

[Python]

One thing hubby doesn't do and that is smoke. He used to but gave it up. He very seldom drinks alcohol either - he's a proper tea jenny He knows I'm enjoying cycling very much and I think he's been smitten by the bug

[doc]

Go to some of the other biking boards. There are tons of postings on "clydesdales" That means riders over 200lb. What is 23 stone anyway? (I'll take kg or pounds)

[Tuckervill]

I had two operations on my back in the lumbar region and and missing parts of some disks.

The first thing they do when you go to physical therapy afterwards is put you on a stationary bike!

Issues with my back are diminished and/or eliminated with cycling. Everyone's different, of course. I was really afraid the position on a road bike would be hard on me, but it's not. I'd certainly keep how it will feel to his back in the back of the mind, but I wouldn't buy a bike based on position of the back. No matter what bike you get, the back is supported by your arms. In a more upright position, your back is doing a lot more work keeping balance, I think.

Karen

[Python]

Thanks Karen. That's interesting that you were put on an exercise bike following your op. Graham (hubby) didn't get that, in fact, as far a I know (this happened before we met) he got some physio then was just dismissed. He couldn't work, could hardly walk, couldn't sit or lie comfortably. He went to the local swimming pool and spotted an advertisement from a professional masseuse who specialised in sports type injuries or post-op injuries. A few sessions with her and he'd got full mobility back again. This happened about 15 years ago and I think physio at our hospitals is a lot better now than it used to be. He's very careful how he lifts things but so far hasn't had much problems - the occasional twinge and that's about all.

He's going to need to try different bikes and different positions to find one that's comfortable.

23st = 322 lbs approximately