For the last two years I've been picking up discarded bikes, repairing them then giving them away. My mother asked me recently if I would fix up bikes for her and her husband to ride about on local bike paths.

My primary desire is that the bikes will be comfortable. I was thinking of using a pair of Puchs that I have - an Austro-Daimler Pathfinder and a Pathfinder mixte. They are the proper size for my parents and I have on hand most of the parts I would need. I was thinking of using northroad or "3-speed" type handlebars (I have some Nitto Doves currently unused) and sprung saddles.

My concern is the 27" wheel. I have plenty of wheels and tires in decent condition, but will they provide a comfortable enough ride? My parents are in their mid 50s, so they're not ancient! My stepfather had a cool Panasonic 10 speed 20 years ago. He works hard at a physical job and has had back pain. I don't think my mother has ridden a bike since before I was born.

I suppose another way to go would be the fully rigid mountain bike with 1.5 - 1.75 road tires route. I have a Fuji step-through frame that could work. I'd have to find a comparable frame for my stepfather.

Any comments or words of wisdom from the congregation? Unfortunately, there's no money to put a pair of matching Trek Navigators under the tree, so that option is out....