I've never been on any kind of forum before but saw this one while Googling bikes. Since you are all obviously experienced and I am not, I would like to ask your recommendations for a bike.

I am 63, have back issues, and want to give bike riding a try. I need it to be fairly light weight so I can lift it up on a bike rack. I don't need to spend a fortune on a bike. Sounds like the Rans would be out of my price range. I only live in the area about 6 or 7 months a year. The area that I ride in has quite a few hills. Would you recommend the 7 gear, 21 or 24 gear? Sounds like Electra has both good and poor reviews. But with my limited usage, perhaps it will be sufficient? Are all the other bikes mentioned in the forum a lot more expensive bikes that the Townie?