Our stories are similar.

I returned to cycling at age 49. I'd smoked for 35 years, and had recently been to the funeral of a friend who died of a heart attack at 54.

My dad, currently 78, had his first MI at 55. He immediately took early retirement and has worn out five or six reclining chairs and countless remotes since then. I too learn by his example of what not to do.

I'll be 57 next week. I own three bikes, and no car. I'm the first male in three generations on both sides who hasn't had a heart attack by age 55.

As for stamina, should you turn into a cyclist, it will never be quite where you want it. You'll always want more. So don't worry about it. Just ride.

As for bikes, your first one should come from an LBS who can fit you properly, and take you through the process of becoming a cyclist. After that you can shop used. My favorite bike was 16 years old when I bought it secondhand. Two others I've owned over the years were also secondhand.