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Lois, this subject has been brought up in this file many times.
However, as far as what type of bike to buy, first you
need to detemine what type of riding you plan to do. type
of terrain, eg, always on asphalt, or some off trail riding.
How often will you ride, would it be just recreational,
compatative, long touring rides. Once you have an answer for
the above, then it can be narrowed down to one or two styles
of bikes that will fit you. After that is determined, then
you can talk about size and measurments. For example, most
mountain bikers prefer the frame a bit smaller than a road
bike for the same size person, so that you can reach the
ground quickly with your foot an hard bumpy terrain, or be
able to get behind the saddle quick for steep descends etc.
Once you've narrowed the choices down, you will be very
surprized at the imporvments of the past two decades and
might find that your "dearly beloved Peugeot UD8" would make
a nice peace of antique on hangin on the garage wall ;-)
Shaw
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| Thanks!
I appreciate your suggestions. I would riding for recreation,
primarily on asphalt, though perhaps on some dirt roads.
The length of my rides would generally be between 5-30 miles.
So what kind of bike does that translate into?
(I'll start saying good-bye to my Peugeot. :)
Thanks again!
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Lois, an upright bike would probably be more convinient.
Your choices would be between a Mountain bike with replaced
less knobby tires or a hybrid bike. My recommendation is
to go to a good bike shop with plenty of choices and
test ride these types of bikes. A hybrid will probably
be a good choice. There is some descussion in here about them
a dir/title=hybrid will probably give you some pointers.
The quickest way of measuring a bike fit, is when you stand
over it, with your legs on either side, the top tupe should be
one to two inches away from you crouch. But then there are other
adjustements like seat post, stem etc...(Even crank arm length)
A good bike shop will happily fit you.
Right now is a great time to buy a bike, as the season is ending
and ski season on its way, you should be able to find plenty of
sales.
Go out and try a few bikes, you will get a better idea of what
types you would like and the price range etc...
Good luck,
Shaw
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