Hey there everyone,
I'm new to the forum, but not new to the love of bicycling. Haven't really owned or used a bike in years, but recently I've realized how much I miss the freedom and joy. I'd like to buy a bicycle for running short errands near my home and eventually I'd like to start commuting regularly to work, which is 3 miles away from home. To tell the truth I'm pretty strapped for cash, which is one of the other reasons why I'm considering bicycling again. Saves on gas for the car and maintenance. Which brings me to my questions.
I'm probably going to buy a bike from a pawn shop, a yard sale or the internet, where ever I can find the lowest priced bike. Is there anything that I should look for? The last time I owned and really rode a bike was when I was in 8th grade so my priorities have changed. I'll give you all a short discription of my stats. I'm 6'1", 210 lbs. (could stand to lose 10 lbs), and haven't exercised in years.
I'm interested in a bike with an automatic shifter like the LandRider. I know this may cause alot of debate, but it is something I've always wanted. Anyone here know of anyplace I can get some information on this subject. I doubt I can get a test ride of one because they aren't very common, but maybe someone here might have tested one out. I do know that there are mechanical and computer controlled automatic shifters, but that's about it.
I'm also interested in eventually converting it to an electrically assisted bike. I know this will also cause alot of debate, but I know I plan to use this bike for more and more of my outings and I know there will be times when I'm just too tired to pedal or don't have the stamina to make it all the way up the hill or I don't want to work up a sweat before I reach my destination. I'd rather have an electrically assisted bike that has the option of being footpowered, over having a powered scooter or moped. It is a personal choice. Again... does anyone have any information on this subject. From the research I've conducted, I think I like the motorized hub type electric assist kits. Does anyone know if there is a company that makes a motorized hub that generates electricity to feed back to the batteries when the bike is braking? I know there are eletric cars that use this concept, but I don't know if electric bikes are doing this yet. Eventually, maybe a year or so from now, if I do have an electrically assisted bike, I think I'll condsider adding solar cells to recharge the batteries.
And finally, I plan to carry my son around on the back of the bike sometimes. Does anyone here have any recommendations for a super lightweight child bike seat that can be easily connected and removed? I don't even know if I'm calling that item by it's right name.
Anyway, thanks for taking the time to read a newbie's post and thanks in advance for any replies.
Wayneburg