Back to the drawing board. This is all great advice. One thing I didn't mention is that I have a very bad back (3 fused vert. in lower spine), thats why I thought a comfort bike would be best (more upright sitting position). MinnMan - I live in Minnetonka near Hopkins, so, I will probably encounter more of the rock trails you mentioned. I have been to Eriks and Penn, I'll stop at some others next week, maybe have a bike by the weekend. Velo Dog - I will look at and test ride some other styles. Would renting a few bikes over the next few weeks to try them, for more than a trip around the parking lot, be a good Idea? That would set my purchase back awhile.