Originally Posted by
zr7rider
Hi All!
Greetings from Central Virginia! I'm 6'00" 230-lbs., with a cheapo Huffy MTB. The bike is something I've had for over 6-years for puttering around the neighborhood with my youngest daughter. Now that she is a teenager and doesn't want to hang around with an old fart, I have some freedom. I've been working out with weights, elipticals, and treadmills for over 3-months, and in not bad shape. I hate running because of the pain in my right knee and hip, an old injury I've been dealing with for over 20-years. I can thank Uncle Sam for that one during Operation Urgent Fury. I used to ride a nice Columbia RB back in the early 1980's for commuting and fitness. Haven't realy been back on a bike much since.
Here's my dilemma, I don't have a friggin' clue about what bikes I should look at! I keep moving towards a Hybrid, so I can enjoy the fitness/Road aspect with the occasional ride in the park on dirt bike paths. I like the Trek Hybrids, but dangit, do bikes have to cost so much? I really don't want to spend more than 500-US, ideally I'm hoping for something decent in the 250-500 range. Are used bikes from a reputable bike shop an option? I'm leary about Ebay.
Thanks for any help you can throw my way!
Shops sometimes sell used bikes. They can be a bargain. Also look for clearance sales on 07 and 08 models.
As to the type of bike you get, buy whatever makes you smile the most. As Mr. Beanz and a few other folks pointed out, a road bike will be easier to ride faster. (Speed is still largely a matter of the engine, however.) Think about the sort of riding you want to do, and let that advise you in selecting a bike.
Oh, and when you get it, post photos. It's a requirement of the forum.
