I hear you on the Hashis. I also have Hashis. In my case even when that was corrected I struggled with my weight until I uncovered the impaired glucose tolerance, but its great that you only have the Hashis to contend with. They will probably start you out on just T4 therapy, but many people (myself included) do better on a combo T4/T3 therapy, so keep this in the back of your mind. But you will have to work hard to take off the weight you gained while you were not being treated. But, with treatment losing the weight should be straighforward as long as you practice moderate caloric restriction and exercise. Some of us do better on low carb diets, but that is for you to explore. I posted recently about this on the weight loss thread if you want to have a peek. Good luck to you in your quest for good health! You will get there, and welcome to TE. (I am also 50, many of us are in that age bracket in fact).

BTW, the older terry steel frames I am recommending, especially Classic do come with strong wheels! The important thing for you now is to find a bike that feels comfortable and stable for your body at its current weight, and get out and ride! Exercise will make a huge difference as you lean out.