Thanks a lot for your input!...seems a little more complicated than I had anticipated. If we are just going to be using the bike to ride say, on a paved beach trail do you think it will still need to have work done? Also, the Ross bike has the upright handle bars which I thought might be more comfortable but, I am really do not have any experience. Also, my boyfriend is 6' 2, slim build- does one bike seem like it might fit better? My guess is that a road bike is maybe not the appropriate style of bike to purchase but, it is the most readily available. This has been very helpful. Thanks!