mav52

Looking to acquire a new bike budget under $1,000 US. I ride mostly paved with few light dirt trails. I ride for enjoyment, no jumping roots etc... I've had 3 lower back (end of spine) operations, I'm 5'11 288lbs. Since the only dealers around me carry Cannondale, Trek and Jamis those are my choices. The deep bent over position with most road bikes is very uncomfortable and it just kills my back.

Not sure, how to proceed, frame wise, fork or wheels and the seat is the biggest deal for me. Any idea's

My dealers all recommend Verve 4, FX 7.4, TRek DS, Cannondale Quick SL

bbeasley

Welcome to BF!

One option, with back issues, is recumbent bikes. While more expensive, buying used should get you in your budget. Would be great if you could talk to a MD who is also a cyclist.

delcrossv

+1. If you've has 3 back surgeries, you really should be looking at recumbents. Take a wander over to bentrider.com

MacNasty

I have back issues also, 350 lbs. I have a Cannondale Quick CX3 and a Surly Karate Monkey. Both are great rides. The Surly is steel and rides like a dream. The Cannondale is good also, a little more buzzy due to the aluminum frame but more responsive. There are adjustments that can be made to seatpost and handlebars to get a more comfortable riding position.

mav52

Thank you for the options on recumbent bikes, but the nature of my lower back surgery (pilonidal cyst) when seated in a recumbent ( via a demo) places to much pressure on the lower tail bone area where the cyst where.

PhotoJoe 

Take a ride on as many bikes as your LBS's will allow. It's amazing how one bike of the same general design can be so much more comfortable than another "similar" model. My wife as a Quick and love it. She also tried an FX and really didn't like it. Many here LOVE the FX, proving the adage YMMV.

1loosemoose

My wife and I both have trek FX bikes and really like them.