Just wondering how many of us there are. I sometimes feel like a second class citizen on my "comfort bike" with all the bashing they get, but I can't ride something that makes me bend my neck up to see (cervical spine surgery). Now I'm having lower back issues, but x-rays only showed arthritis. I'm 47, but my body is much older (sigh). I bought a Cannondale that felt light and nimble compared to the other "comfort" bikes. I've had the shifters replaced — I hate grip shifts — with nice shimano click shifts, replaced the tires with ones that are more suited for trail riding, added a nice topeak rack, ergon grips, and a Brooks saddle on a fixed seatpost. I had to find a frame that worked with MY geometry (challenged as it is), and go from there. Biking makes me happy. It is one of the only exercise activities, other than yoga, that I can still do. I feel free and alive on my bike! Today I met a guy at my lbs who asked about my unusual bike. He has back issues, too. I told him to find a frame that works for him, then work from there to get the bike he wants.

I'm lucky that my husband is supportive in my efforts to stay mobile. He still rides (and loves) his old Schwinn High Plains.

Deb