Hey all, I've been reading a ton on threads here in the past couple weeks as I research fg bikes. I'm starting to get a handle on things, but I still need some clarification on the differences between track and road frames/geometry, and which is better for what purpose. And feel free to correct me on any and all of this...that's why I'm posting.

From what I understand, track frames are stiffer, more compact, and less comfortable. Road frames have more give or flex and tend to be more comfortable because of this. It seems like the general recommendation is if you're going to go on a track get a track bike, if you're commuting get a road bike. It's everything in between that's a bit muddy to me. What if I'm doing neither, just riding in the city? I live in Seattle and will primarily be riding within my neighborhood and from one end of the city to the other--maybe the occasional weekend road ride, but nothing long. It seems like a road frame would be more comfortable on the street, but I've seen folks recommend track bikes for street maneuverability. I suspect where this breaks down is personal preference, and it seems like there's a bit of a cult/tradition thing as far as using track bikes for the street, but I don't want to dismiss either option based on that.

Also, I've got a lot of hills around here, and I'm not sure which would be better for hills--stiffer or with some give? The hills are gonna kick my ass for a while, so any help from the frame would be awesome

Lastly, it seems like toe overlap is an important issue if you're weaving in and out of traffic or taking tight corners. Do I understand that correctly? And it's basically track frames that have this issue, because they're more compact, or is it a frame-by-frame thing? I'm also a little confused about tire clearance. I've read elsewhere that some frames/forks don't have enough clearance to do a bar spin. I'm not concerned about bar spins specifically (not quite there yet), but would this restriction mean the front wheel can go 360? And is this an issue with compact track frames, or again a frame-specific thing?

All this may be moot as I've never even ridden a regular road bike, so anything is going to feel different than what I'm used to and I might not really "get" any differences right away. In that vein, it seems track frames are "twitchy"...does that basically mean it's be hard to control as a new rider? I only have mediocre traffic skills at the moment (and yes, I'm getting a brake and will practice before dodging cars).

I'm trying to narrow down my options, because right now I'm pretty much looking at everything out there. I'll also be going all over the place as it is to try bikes out at various LBSs, and if I can eliminate a model or two that would really help.

More questions on the way, I'm sure, but we'll stick to one topic at a time. Thanks!