Either of the Treks will do you well, but I'd consider upgrading the wheels to a higher spoke count wheelset.
I'd also recommend....very strongly, a set of padded cycling shorts. If you feel self conscious about Lycra, you can always wear a pair of baggy shorts over them (ps: You wear the bike shorts "Commando", so ya know. underwear interferes with wicking and the seams cause raw spots in areas you don't want raw spots!).
Cycling clothes for Clydes:
http://www.aerotechdesigns.com . If you are unsure about sizing, their customer service is GREAT!
Originally Posted by Alowisney
Let me start out by saying that I'm glad there is a forum for those of us with a bit of extra padding. I'm 5"11 and 340 pounds. I'm looking at riding as a way to lose weight and just get out into the world more. I'll mostly be riding on pavement but I'll be riding on dirt roads from time to time also. I used to ride a whole lot as a kid and teenager but getting a car ruined it.
I'm going shopping at my local bike shop this weekend and I've been "window shopping" in preparation. I've decided on two definite maybes. I'm looking at a Trek 820 and a Trek 7000 as possibilities. My local shop carries Trek, Cannondale, Haro, and Specialized as their main vendors. I'm trying to stay in the under $300 range if at all possible. Please tell me if I'm crazy or if you think one of those bikes would suite my needs or if I should keep an eye out for certain other models from those other vendors. I'm also open to used so anything you think might fit into that price is a welcome suggestion.