Thank you. I do like the idea of going new. But it seems that everything new has disc brakes. I like the simplicity of the calipers. My hope and goal was to learn more about bike maintenance and be able to handle flats and brakes. But disc brakes seem more involved and that more could go wrong with them and they would be more expensive to repair?

Also, what I liked about the Surly Pack Rat was its unique build to handle the front rack. Reviews say that because it's built to handle the front rack, it won't wobble as much. I like the idea of having a pannier/carrier on the front so you can see your things as you ride. I also like front because I would be worried that adding even more weight to the rear tire would put too much pressure on the back and cause problems? I weight 195 (hopefully get down to 180-185) and worry that I'm too heavy for even more weight on the back. Currently, I put all my stuff in my backpack, but I'd like to lighten my backpack and get that stuff in a pannier.

So, basically I'm back to square one. New or used, I don't know. Disc brakes or calipers, I don't know...

Thanks in advance to anyone who can provide some guidance.