The most important thing on a bike is fit. It must fit you correctly to allow you to be comfortable. The bike you choose will depend on the cycling you decide to try. Road bikes will be light and fast but don't generally handle too well on gravel. MTBs are heavier, better suited for riding on uneven surfaces, gravel, etc but are heavier and slower. Hybrids are a mix of the two. A recumbent allows the rider to sit comfortably and lean back against the seat. Although they are heavier they can be fast. They are fun to ride, and you don't suffer the sore necks, backs, hands and butt that you can get from other bikes. The thing is to decide generally what type of riding you want to do, go out and try some bikes, and get the one that feels the best to you. Make sure it fits you correctly. Any decent bike shop worth their salt will do that and some offer free tune-ups after you've put a few miles on your bike.

'bent Brian