250 lbs and a Reginner. It has been said that you will probably change your first bike within a couple of years, and that is from our experience. Frame material is immaterial really but steel will last- gives a comfortable ride due to the give in the material, but may be a bit heavier. Aluminium frames are lighter in general- will last mnowadays but will be a bit stiff. The LBS you will find- They will ask questions and the main one will not be HOW MUCH? They may not carry a lot of stock but they can get it and they do know their bikes. Personally I would beware of the big chain shops as they are not cheap= Most of the salemen just want to sell you a bike- and lack of after service. They are great to see the type of bikes around a nd a lot of models- but unless the have the bike you want- in the size and colour you want and you can get a good price on it- Shop elsewhere.

250lbs--That will drop but one thing to think of is wheels. They will not have to be ultra strong and will be covered by warranty- but think of wheels as something you have to take care of. They do go out of true- they do get damaged- but they can be repaired or trued at the LBS. Check with the LBS but if going up one model in a range is going to get you a better wheel- then think about it.