Big Guy
 

Quit smoking a few years back,and since then have packed on the weight.
I am 60 yrs+,6'3" 300lbs+,and need to drop the tonnage.I have been working out at home on a Schwinn Airdyne,just to get in better condition to even ride a bike again.I have a circa 1987 Peugeot "Marseilles" 12-spd road bike w/27x 1 1/4" 36spoke steel rims.Will these rims support me or should I look at wider wheels.I picked this bike up about 5 years ago at an estate sale for $20,and from the condition of the bike it has hardly been used.Any suggestions would be appreciated--H.H.

I would take it to your LBS to look over, tune up and see if anything needs to be done to it. Then just go out and ride, if the bike fits it's worth it in my opinion.

I started at 350+ lbs on a MTB that was sitting in a shed for 8 years, had the LBS do a tune up and new shifters added, total cost all in was about $110. The bike was a bit to small for me but got me into cycling, rode that bike over 1000 miles since I got it last April.

I might suggest, if you have problems with your wheel, go into the shop and ask for DT spokes. I did that after a few times of breaking my spokes but I was heavier then you so you might not have that issue.

If the wheel is properly trued and tensioned, I'd imagine most 36 spoke wheels should be able to hold up to you. I'd agree with the getting a tuneup if it hasn't been ridden in a while. Safety things like brake pads might need to be replaced.

+1

I was breaking rear wheel spokes like crazy on my Trek7.2 Fx until I had the wheel rebuilt by a pro. Not a problem any more. Finding an old steel road bike on CL is great if you are a gear head, or are willing to take it to a pro to be gone over.

Welcome.

Peugeot might be a nice place to start, then see what you like and dislike about it . That will inform future decisions and help you to find N+1 .