Hi all,

I think the general consensus is that I will be ok with the 7200. Thank you all for your comments. I am fairly new to the biking scene, so every bit of advice it invaluable!!

The handlebar issue, is what I have picked up from forums about preferring drop bars for comfort rather than the hybrids 'straight' bars. I can understand it really, but how much better is it? If its not that much better, I'll keep the straight bars. I am concentrating on a pleasant tour with the kit I already have and dont want to spend too much on new gear (other than good panniers!). However, I have the following as standard:

Wheels: Matrix 750 alloy rims built on alloy front and Shimano RM60 rear hubs
Tyres: Bontrager Invert Puncture Resistant

Again - I might need to beef the tyres up a little - but are the rims ok?

I thank you all for your comments so far, and in advance. (I'll post some pictures of her kitted up soon so you can all see her!!!)

Jamie.