Hi Everyone!
Well, in one month will be my big 3-0, so i've decided to take the bike by the handles and try and get healthier. My husband and I would like to begin cycling, because the area we live is gorgeous and it would be so wonderful to explore the trails around here. Also, I biked when I was a kid, and a bit as a teenager, and I adored it. Currently I weigh in at 255lbs, and i'm 5'8, so I need to find a bike that can support a heavier rider. From what i've read a steel bike will be necessary, and wheels with more spokes (also steel or stainless steel), but i'd also like to be comfortable on my bike, and hopefully a little more upright, instead of bent over with my tummy all squooshed and my weight on my wrists. I'll be riding primarily on pavement and dirt ATV trails, not tons of hills, but some.
My biggest issue is that I live in an extremely rural area, and there are *literally* no bike shops within 2 hours of me. Then the ones that exist two hours away are general sports stores, not bike specific shops, so I don't know how much help they'll be. I'd like to have as clear an idea as possible- down to brands and models- of what I should look at, just in case the sales people aren't very bike experienced.
So i've come to all of you at TE
Any help you can offer is so very appreciated! I'll be checking back regularly, and can answer any questions i've failed to cover here.
Thanks so much- in advance!
wren