jrossbeck

Hey man - clearly your original thread has taken a turn for the worse, and I don't see it getting better.

If you still have questions about finding the right bike, please post here and I'm sure folks will help you out.

For starters, I would try and locate the 3 or 4 nearest bike shops, and call them up in regards to their policy on test rides. Set a budget that you are willing to spend, and include the accessories you would need (bottle holders, bottles, shoes, helmet, pedals, extra tubes, pump, flat kit, etc). Plan to spend at least $100 on basic accessories, and possibly $200 if you really want to roll out ready to tackle 3-40 mile rides. Most bikes in the $1000 or so range can likely have a standard set of flat pedals thrown in. The shop could probably put some toe loops on for $10-20 that will help generate a little extra power.

Clip pedals you will have to pay for and the shoes to match. You don't necessarily need those yet, but something to consider.