Welcome lexm from a fellow 45 year old academic lol! Well I will be 45 next Sunday 22nd so I might as well round it up! You will enjoy this sub-forum, it's full of very helpful and eclectic characters and oft very funny too! Some great people.

I see you have a strong onset of the Foldernitis virus already which leads to craving symptons. Being a Brompton owner, I'd avoid a single speed as you might regret that as you cycle more. A 3 speed or the super lightweight 2 speed (overpriced though because of titanium parts) would be much better. In the meantime good luck with the Strida and looking forward to some pictures. Was in Chicago last year and some lovely rides out by the Great Lakes.