Originally Posted by
JGM411
Thank you for the comments.
TSL and Rootman's responses were particularly helpful. . As I mentioned in the OP, mostly it will be rural roads. I live in Southern IL, east of ST Louis. The terrain is relatively flat with moderate inclines. I don't want to be a ride around the block type rider. I will buy a bike that will get pushed as my stamina returns to a more youthful time in my life.
I have spoken off and on with a local lBS salesperson over the past couple years about getting back in to riding myself. I have purchased four bikes from this place in the last 15-16 years for my kids.
The salesperson keeps recommending a comfort bike. I'm not sure I would like that type of bike, but I can understand why he is recommending one, i.e. the upright position and a comfortable seat.
Sounds like you are getting similar treatment to what I experienced. The too old for a road bike pigeon holing. So my first bike ended up being a hybrid. When I knew more and did a better job picking bikes I ended up with a road bike and a 29er mountain bike.
Both were selected the same way. I started with the lowest price and worked my way up. I rode each bike long enough to get a good feel for that bike. When I got to one that felt OK I stopped and bought that bike. Ended up I bought the cheapest carbon fibre road bike and a just above entry level 29er. I have been very happy with my choices.