Originally Posted by paver

I recently moved to a new area that makes bicycling more feasible.

1. I currently have a 4.5 mile commute to work over mainly flat terrain. Not sure I'd commute every day, but would like to when the weather is favorable.

2. Would also like to ride on some rail trails. No off-roading.

3. Could see doing some utility bicycling to local stores for groceries, etc. Maybe add a trailer down the road.

4. I'm over 6' tall, and in 40's.

5. Previous bike was a Mongoose Paver.

So I've looked around at both big box stores and local bike shops...

Initially I looked at a Huffy Perfect Fit Parkside 7 Speed at Walmart. Yeah, I know, it's a Huffy. But it does have a number of good reviews and seems "decent" for what it is.

I've also looked at the Giant Escape 0, Trek FX1 and FX2, Raleigh Detour, and Jamis Citizen 1.

I like the overall ergonomics of the Huffy, but the weight comes in a 42 lbs per Amazon, which seems excessive to me. And I'm sure the parts aren't the best, such as the Shimano Revoshift shifters. The 2 LBS's I shopped at were both really pushing me more toward a low, straight handlebar, which I'm not sure about. I'd likely be adding a rear rack and chain guard no matter what I buy. Fenders could be a plus.

Help me out here. Not sure what direction to go. Please make some suggestions, even if not listed above.

Thanks!

Paver