I am starting to search for my first bike in about 30 years. I am a fit 60 yr old and would like something to ride around town and maybe go up to 15 miles or so. I didn't want to spend a lot of money, but I want something that will last a while and be a good first bike.

SportsChalet has a special on the DiamondBack Maravista for $249.00
Would this be a good first bike for me?? The price seems very good for what I would be getting. They have a pretty good bike department (service, etc.). They don't offer test rides but said I could try it for a week and bring it back if I am unhappy.

I would appreciate any feedback, thanks

Here are the specs:
DiamondBack Maravista `06
Sizes SM (15"), M (17"), LG (19"), XL (21"), WS (15")
Colors Gloss Silver (M), Gloss Light Aqua (W)
Frame 6061-T6 Alloy Hybrid w/ internal Cable routing, replaceable derailleur Hanger, H2O Bottle Mounts
Fork Spinner Odessa ACS Comfort Suspension w/ adjuster
Headset 1 1/8" threaded
Crankset Shimano TX-71 48/38/28 w/ chainguard
Bottom Bracket Sealed Cartridge
F. Derailleur Shimano C202
R. Derailleur Shimano Alivio
Shift Lever Shimano EF-35 Rapid Fire 8spd
Cog Set SRAM PG-830 8spd (11-32t)
Chain KMC-Z82
Hubset (F) Alloy QR (R) Shimano RM30 Cassette
Spokes 14g Black Stainless
Rims Weinmann AC-19 Double Wall 32h
Tires Puncture-Resistant Kenda Cross w/ K-shield 700x40c
Brakes Tektro linear
Brake Levers Shimano Easy Fire EF-36
Pedals Avenir Comfort Plus
Handlebar Comfort Riser
Grips Avenir 3-D Comfort
Stem Alloy adjustable
Seatpost Avenir Silhouette Post 27.2mm
Saddle Avenir Deluxe Cross Comfort
Extras Clear coat, owner’s manual, H20 bottle mounts

Hybrids, like the bike you suggest, may be very suitable for you, but I'd recommend test-riding several bikes before diving in. Since you've been 'away' for a while, getting a comfortable fit is critical to a positive cycling experience. Good LBS do this and it should take more than 5 minutes...explore one or two other bike shops to get a feel of product and service breadth and pricing.

A few questions for you to consider: If your travelways are primarily asphalt or fine gravel, do you need shocks or would a suspension seat post suffice? IMO shocks add unnecessary weight for most applications. I fully understand your budget concerns but is $250 your max? I submit that your cycling experience might be substantially better on a bike in the $300-400 range, ie lighter, better components, feel etc.

Good luck and welcome back to cycling!

I am starting to search for my first bike in about 30 years. I am a fit 60 yr old and would like something to ride around town and maybe go up to 15 miles or so.
You're just a kid (I'm 62). Go to a bike shop and get a real bike and start training for your first century or metric century. :)

You're just a kid (I'm 62). Go to a bike shop and get a real bike and start training for your first century or metric century. :)

I like your attitude. I passed on the SportChalet bike and will take your advice and go to a bike shop.

I like your attitude. I passed on the SportChalet bike and will take your advice and go to a bike shop.
Great! :beer: Be sure you let us know what bike you get.

bww,

Thanks for asking this question - I am looking at the exact same bicycle at Sports Chalet in Phoenix, AZ. I am 6' 2" & 270 lb (ok, working out and have dropped 3 lbs in the last 2 weeks - hence the name "Big Steve").

If I get the 21 inch size would that suffice? I am short on cash, but I do try to support my local businesses, including my bicycle shops. Any suggestions would be welcome.

I plan on riding to work about 10 miles each way. Mostly pavement, but some gravel (got too many flat tires on my road bicycle... narrow tires I suppose)

Thanks for any input!