underway

Hi all.

Just looking to get back into cyclinging, and do less driving. Haven't done much biking in the last 30 years. Back then I prefered chromoly for riding and cost.

I am 51 years old, and live in so cal, near the top of a steep 600 foot high hill.

I'd like something with a more upright posture, and leaning towards an internally geared hub like the afine 8 or i-motion 9.

Something like the electra townie 8, with hand brakes.

Any with chromoly frames? Any where they sell just the frame, and assemble the components to your own spec?

Don't think I need both fat tires and a shock absorbing fork. Don't need fenders..

What crank forward comfort bikes are out there these days?

Rans are too expensive, and too hard to find.

Giant suede.
Fuji saratoga
Specialized Carmel
trek pure
canondale daytripper
raleigh Venture or Circa

Schwinn?

How are these?

What others are out there?

Any place around here have a large collection of such bikes used?

The i-9 specs great, including the quick release for flat. But reports of awful noise keep me wary.

Guess I could get a cheaper version first, with derailers, and then put in the IG hub of my choice.

Thoughts?

Thanks!
Don