I went to Bike Source and sat on a Specialized Expedition Sport, small frame. It seemed ok, but I had to come back another day to actually test ride it. In the meantime, I went over to Trek, which now owns the Townie brand. I sat on their 26" and felt like I had returned home. Took it out for a test ride, and they worked quite a bit with adjusting the seat, especially, and giving me guidance on body position re: health for my knees. It was such an amazing smooth ride. Then, to honor the shop that put a hold on a Specialized for me, I went back over there, with my body still remembering how it felt mounting the Townie. It just never felt that good on the Specialized, and yes, Wilfred, you're right. It's really not a "crank forward" style.

I was again told that a Townie is built for 10-15 mile rides. This time I asked what they meant by that. Answer? Because the rider sits upright and is not in a good aerodynamic position. OH!!!!! So THAT'S it. I got up on my toes, looked him in the eye, and said I've done 40 miles at age 70. I'm not interested in speed; only comfort and endurance. So now we understand each other.

My 26" 21d Townie will be here within a week. Life is good.