Originally Posted by Greyhoundsrock

Thanks for the continued suggestions. A touring bike is something I had thought about especially when I don't care about how light the bike will be as putting three water bottles on a bike defeats the whole light as a feather road bike concept. As I rode my first unsupported century yesterday I thought about what I really want out of my new bike. I am not a speedy cyclist but I can fairly easily stay out on a bike for a long time. Yesterdays ride was the kind of ride I love. I rode out to a park, could navigate the gravely roads with ease, enjoyed the scenery and felt fine when I got back home. The only other issue though is that currently I ride solo. We have an active local group but I just am not quite fast enough to hold pace with the longer distance riders. When I have ridden side by side with folks on road bikes, they can be coasting while I am having to peddle. I would like to at least occasionally ride with others. I will have to test ride a touring bike and see what the ride feels like. Thanks again!