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Fifty Plus (50+) Share the victories, challenges, successes and special concerns of bicyclists 50 and older. Especially useful for those entering or reentering bicycling.

First Post - 50+ newbie

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Old 09-20-15 | 08:34 PM
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First Post - 50+ newbie

I have been riding on and off for the 10 years and the last 4-5 mostly on my Kinetic trainer.
My wife which has not shown much interest in riding, she recently saw a female 50+ neighbor and chatted with her about her bike.
We took a trip to the LBS and she chose and was fitted to an Violet color Electra Townie 7D and has made a few laps around the neighborhood.
After taking her bike for a quick lap my 50+ body realized that her new bike was "very" comfortable.
Now to my question: I know that one reason my 14 year old Cannondale M300 was just sitting on my trainer, was the pain I was experiencing in my wrists and neck after a long ride or exercise session; one of the guys I work with has a brother with an Electra 21D Original a few years old (2013) that has been ridden only a couple of times and is basically like-new condition. See pic for 21d version
I'm feeling like riding with my wife of 35+ years would be fun and provide some excellent physical improvement activities we could do as a couple.
I'm just now starting to realize that I'm not a 30-40 year old fella any longer.

Thought's on a Used like/new 21D for 50+ exercise fun.
We're heading to FL beaches soon (2 weeks) and she's excited about her new bike (so cool looking and comfortable), I think I want now as well.

Looks like a great site for our new life style changes.
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Old 09-20-15 | 10:46 PM
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Welcome to the forum, Sray!

In my book, the first rule of cycling is "have fun." Obviously, opinions vary.

If your wife is having fun on her Electra Townie, you should join her! If your colleague's brother's bike is a good fit, grab it and go for some nice rides in Florida.

Some folks may fuss at you that crank-forward bikes will never be the fastest, but it doesn't sound like that's your goal. I think you'll have a blast riding your Electras together in wonderful (and not-very-hilly) Florida.

Have fun!
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Old 09-21-15 | 12:51 AM
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Ride whatever fits and is comfortable. Riders with Townies swear by them. I'm not one of them, but most of the bikes I ride range from 25-40 years old.
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Old 09-21-15 | 01:13 AM
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A bike you can enjoy riding with your wife sounds great.
My wife has an unfortunate tendency to wind up in the hospital when riding a bike.
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Old 09-21-15 | 01:45 AM
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Old 09-21-15 | 04:22 AM
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Exercise from a Townie is a good thing. If riding the Electra 21D is fun, weigh anchor and sail away with the lady of the house.
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Old 09-21-15 | 05:22 AM
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Welcome, I hope you find this place helpful.

As another 50+, I would advocate using whatever you are comfortable with, what motivates you to get out and what is kindest on the body. As an ageing cyclist I know only too well the aches and discomfort that is now associated with the pastime.

However, I occasionally take my bike - and my wife - to a little place called the Isle of Cumbrae on the west coast of Scotland. It is a small place and full of cyclists. They are on all sorts of bikes and they are all enjoying themselves to the full! So, use whatever is best for you. That way you will get out more and get to share some more time with the 'good lady'.
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Old 09-21-15 | 06:55 AM
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Thanks all for the warm welcome & information.
I'm heading out for some first time riding together today. Bikes checked over and we're all set.

I'll report back later.

Thanks again!
Steven in TN
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Last edited by Sray53tn; 09-21-15 at 07:00 AM.
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Old 09-21-15 | 07:40 AM
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The best bike in the world is the one that makes you want to ride. Enjoy!
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Old 09-21-15 | 07:45 AM
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Originally Posted by Sray53tn
Thanks all for the warm welcome & information.
I'm heading out for some first time riding together today. Bikes checked over and we're all set.

I'll report back later.

Thanks again!
Steven in TN
If it fits you will ride far...
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Old 09-21-15 | 07:55 AM
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That Townie would actually be perfect for my daughter, who is challenged and has shunned just about any other bike my ex or I have ever bought for her. I think she panics if she can't reach the ground easily. I am going to keep an eye out for a used one.
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Old 09-21-15 | 08:37 AM
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As a 75+'r, I would say the most important measurement anyone can make it Smiles per hour. Keep it up, ride what makes ypu want to ride again and more.
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Old 09-22-15 | 06:26 PM
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My wife wants an Electra to functionally replace her Trek MTB for daily/around town. She's never been road bike person. After getting past my initial, wth, reaction I can see it. My biggest fear is that I might like it....which would lead to suicidal thoughts.
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Old 09-22-15 | 07:19 PM
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She rode for the first time in a couple decades, 5.6 miles on some easy road and light trail/gravel path stuff. Giant grin!
She said she was a little sore, but the good kind when muscles that have been quiet for awhile wake up and are happy to be active.
Love that new Violet Townie 7D Original.

Should be picking up my c-workers brother's Townie 21 D for a test run next day or so.
Thanks all - Safe & Fun
Good smiles per hour!

Last edited by Sray53tn; 09-22-15 at 07:24 PM.
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