Originally Posted by ShortLegCyclist

I know you said you wanted to stay on the road and be lightweight, but will you ever take it on trails? Are you comfortable in a forward leaning aero position with your handlebars lower than your seat?

If you might take if off road every now and then and if you would rather sit more upright (with a better view of traffic in most cases) then I'd consider a hybrid bike rather than a road bike per se.

Do you have a budget you are working with?

I am also nearly 50, was 270 pounds two years ago and have lost 110 pounds since getting on the bike and eating sensibly, so it can be done, my friend. In the process I've lost my hypertension, sleep apnea, high cholesterol and prediabetes and I don't miss any of them. I now usually get between 125-150 miles in a week and my resting heart rate has gone from low 90's to 50. Hills that looked fearsome 20 months ago I don't even break a sweat on now and they actually even LOOK flatter.

Cycling helped save my life so yes, it can do that for you too.

Just don't let something hit you while you are at it and ruin all that hard work.