New (overweight) rider - need bike for my weight

[Grog]

Welcome to TE, NancyBug!

There might - just might - be people out there who will think nasty things, just because there is always one nasty person out there somewhere, or just someone having a bad day and being frustrated about something that's not related to you.

BUT they are so rare. Rare enough that you don't have to even be bothered about what they MIGHT - just might - think.

Most people don't think anything - I have found life to be so much better since I realized that most people don't look at us or think about us as closely as we think about ourselves. They have other things to think about which are more important to them. I don't blame them. I don't spend a lot of time thinking about the size (or showing roots, or zits, or whatever) of others myself.

And for the few people who think about something: they will most likely be very impressed and inspired when they see you on the bike. "Wow, if she's doing it, what am I doing here sitting in my metal cage (car)?" There will be other people like you who will be thinking: "If she's doing it, that means I can/should do it too!"

Wear what you want, just go out there and enjoy the open road (or trail)!

Welcome to TE!

p.s. This bike (Trek 7.2FX) has had many women on this board started and wanting for more. It's not very expensive for the quality you get (this page shows you the Canadian version - the US is slightly cheaper). I don't think the wheels would need to be strengthened but you will need to ask your shop.