I personally don't recommend a flat bar bike. It may feel more comfortable at first, the limited hand positions can create problems as you advance. Its all about fit, if the bike fits, drop bars are great (and I am 49 with two drop bar bikes, I even had my terry classic that came with flat bars converted to drop so I do know what I am talking about). I agree that you have to be careful about what some LBS employee thinks is the right bike for me, it can have more to do with moving inventory (or prejudices of their own) than understanding your needs. GO RIDE SOME BIKES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!