Pete,
the reason I started riding about a year and a half ago was because due to a car accident, I had my back fused and could no longer run (which was my big sport). I really needed the physical activity for mental peace. I used to watch all the cyclist ride by my house and I thought maybe that would be something I could do. I was harder than it looked. I could only ride about 15 mins but kept it up to the point where I'm addicted and did a Century last month. Sad thing is... I might have to have another fusion in my back and neck. I will find out soon. But you know what? I can feel like crap but a ride always makes me feel better. And now I have family interest . Pretty cool !!!