Thanks for the quick feedback on this:

pedalpedalpedal - Good point about the handlebars of a Townie possibly interfering with another bike being put on the bus bike rack. I did call them up and described the Townie, especially the handlebars. The cust. rep. thinks that won't be a problem but frankly I think I'll just ask the bus driver or just another cyclist waiting for the bus to be sure.

Your comment about the racks did prompt me to find out more about the bus racks here. The cust. rep. couldn't get specs on the racks- just said that the racks can fit "two full sized bikes" (which is what the website says). I also asked what would happen if the racks were full and I was the third or even the 4th biker waiting to get on. She said (and I've seen this happen) that the bus driver would let us on the bus depending on how full the bus was. Naturally anyone in a power wheelchair, mobility scooter or adults with a folding stroller or shopping cart have priority. If the bus is already crowded with scooters, wheelchairs and people, then the cyclist has to wait for the next bus (if any).

These buses are small and bus service is limited. The average wait is one hour between buses. This tells me I better be prepared to pedal home (in the hot Florida sun or torrential rain) if I have to.

Hopefully if the above happens, I'll be competent enough to cycle to and from home by then.

cod.peace - WOW!!! Thanks for the references and links to other bikes. I have some time today and can look them up.

Velo Dog - Good to hear about the Townie and how far you can go. Excuse the ignorant question but what is the average speed on a Townie. I'm considering an Electra 3 speed Women's Townie.

tatfiend - Thanks for the tip on learning to balance myself on the bike. Seems like a sensible way to approach it

wahoonc (Aaron) - Thanks for mentioning the Raleighand providing a link. Cool! I've been riding my trike and it's good enough for short distances but lugging it around further than two miles is getting trying. Don't get me wrong, I still love my red trike but I need something a little lighter and more maneuverable it seems. I'll still be using my trike but as a utility vehicle. It's great for lugging groceries, etc.