Total noob ready to get back in the saddle
 

Hello!

52yr old male; 6’3” 305lbs. A recent hip replacement 2+ years ago helped in packing on the weight. Now the doc says drop the weight, swim or bike it off.

Looking for a bike to ride on paved roads and some grass/gravel surfaces. Main goal is to lose weight and enjoy myself in the process.

Been looking around at some bike brands like Trek, Giant, Diamondback and a few more. Trying to keep to a budget of $500 - $700.

So many options/terms my head is spinning. Obviously I need something that will be able to support my weight and accommodate my height.

Would be really grateful if someone could recommend a brand & model that would suit me within my budget range. Any additional info that would be helpful such as special tires, seat etc would also be immensely helpful and also greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance.
Perry

305 isn't terribly heavy for a bike so most will work. And at 6'3" you shouldn't have too much problem finding something that fits. Wheels will be one point you want to make sure that are sturdy. I'd look at stuff with 32 spokes and if you can find something with 36 spokes all the better. Insist that any bike you get...a mechanic with wheel building skills hand tensions the spokes and makes sure things are good.

As far as models...from the riding you describe...I'd be looking at some hybrid style bikes or or possibly something in the gravel/all road category. There are some models that offer flat bars which will be a less aggressive position on the bike. Not sure if you are opposed to drop bars or if your flexibility will allow you to ride them...honestly, I prefer them even though I don't use the drops often. I like the ability to use different hand positions on the tops. I just happened to have the Diamondback site up and they have the Insight hybrid and then there's the Haanjo gravel series that might be worth a look including two flat bar options. I'd just get to some shops and ride as many styles of bikes as you can. Even mountain bikes. See what you like and don't like about each and that will help you narrow your search.

thanks so much NoGears for the great info. I really appreciate it.:thumb:

At that price point, and from what you describe, avoid any kind of suspension. Suspension is unnecessary for paved surfaces, gravel roads, or many groomed trails. There are many suitable bikes, some terms to watch for are: hybrid, cyclocross, "adventure", all-road, etc. The key features you are going to want are clearances for 32mm tires plus fenders and 32 or 36 spokes wheels with sturdy rims. Here are a couple of bikes to look at. The MSRP comes in over your budget for both ($1,100-$1,250) but on sale or clearance you can often find them for < $1,000. Either would make a great all-around bike and would be more than sturdy enough for many years of riding for a big guy.

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I'm 5' 11" and 230# and one of my bikes is a 1997 Trek 720 which is very similar to either of these bikes. I'm very happy with it for gravel grinding and light touring.

There are a lot of good bike deals online from sources like Bike Direct, but I would steer a self-proclaimed "total noob" to a bike shop to assure proper fit and setup. Once you have some experience with bike fitting and basic setup and adjustment, online becomes a viable option.

go talk to your local bike shop and see if they have any used bikes that will fit you. Buy the best bike you can from them, and then build a relationship with them. This will ensure that they give you good recommendations for parts, bikes, and they might even have a weekly group ride you can join.

I really appreciate the info fellas. At least I have a clue now where to start.

There's always bikes on craigslist, esp. the older steel frame mtb. At least I see trek all the time in the Detroit area.