Quote Originally Posted by calico View Post
In my late 20s I was Dx with Fibro myalgia. Now I am 36 and almost 300 lbs. My eventual goal is to get comfortable riding to do the 4 mile commute to and from the college each day (all paved roads, gentle hills).
First off I want to welcome you here to the board. It's nice to meet people who have faced considerable setbacks and remain determined to get healthier.

Now about that bike.....there are adjustable stems available to bring the handlebars up which puts less stress on your wrists. Clockwork Orange has one on her bike I believe. What's nice about these stems is as you progress in your cycling, you can lower it as your flexibility increases in the cycling season.

If you are interested in a bike, consider a "comfort" bike--one that has a more relaxed geometry. What many bike shop guys don't consider is the larger person needs to sit more upright to create more space for tummy. They don't consider that when one gets down into the drops that the thigh could have contact with the tummy. So look for something that fits you and feels comfortable while using different parts of the handlebars. If you need to find a different handlebar as alpinerabbit suggested, that will give you another option.

If you are interested in clothing, check TE's plus size specialty clothing. Susan Otcenas is extremely helpful in suggesting what fits us curvy gals. Just give her a ring when you are ready to shop. Also, I can recommend this site.

And please, don't feel like you have to be a greyhound to enjoy cycling. There are people in all shapes and sizes that take to the road to experience the small pleasures that nature provides--sunshine, fresh air, spring flowers, and best of all, a sense of well being. Let us know what you find and be sure and post pictures.