Whit51 

A question for CVers in NOVA. What kind of gearing are you using? I live in the South Carolina Midlands near Columbia. Most of my road bikes are set up with 50/34 cranks and 7 or 8 speed free wheels or cassettes with a 25 to 28 tooth largest cog. My typical ride is 15 to 25 miles on terrain ranging from rolling to fairly steep hills. I will be working and living in Fairfax County for several years, and am wondering what kind of gearing will work best for rec/fitness riding. Would also appreciate recommendations on any CV friendly bike shops.

SirMike1983 

Where in Fairfax? If you're to the west in a place like Fairfax/Oakton/Vienna, you want something like you have that can run between gentle and hilly. You probably won't hit heavy-duty mountain terrain like out in Winchester or near the WV border, but there are some hills around. If you're like me and very close to the Potomac, you don't need quite as much. I get along fine with a Raleigh 3 speed with larger (20 or 22) rear cog.

Whit51 

Thanks, SirMike, I'll be in or around the city of Fairfax, and maybe later in or around Reston. Sounds like my current setup is fine.