Hi from Houston, Texas!
 

Hi: My name is Harry. I've a mountain biker for quite a while now. My first bike was a Mongoose Alta (back in the day). I own a Cannondale F500 which was a gift from my sister and I love it. It's been really go so far (and I got it in 1996). I want to try the MS 150 which is a charity ride for multiple scleorosis (sorry if I mispelled the word) every year from Houston to Austin and I need all the advise possible to get a new bike for it (without braking the bank) and/or a way to transform the bike that I currently owned. Thanks anyway and is nice to be here…

Howdy, and welcome to the forum. I too am from the "Greater" Houston area. Just next door in Pasadena.

You mention converting your bike, I have seen this asked before. If you use the search you can find them. Good luck with the ride next year, I plan on riding it on a Single speed or fixed gear.

You'll probably want a road bike of some sort or, at the very least, go for some slick tires on your Cannondale. There's no terrain on the MS 150 that requires a mountain bike, though I've certainly seen folks riding them. It really just depends on what you're comfortable riding. I'd suggest joining up with a team, since the logistical support is very valuable, and start training early. Make sure you do some hill rides because there's not much in Houston to prepare you for the hills of central Texas.