paull@hplabs.UUCP (Rob KA6SFV) (08/31/84)
For the novice, like me, who is not 20 yrs old and 120lbs., (34/200) I would recommend you look into mountain bikes. I recently purchased one and find it far superior to the classic ten speed for the around town journeys and for ocassional mountain grazing. If you get one, check into a wide seat and not the usual racing types that some of them come with. Most dealers seem willing to swap the seats at no or a small charge. Don't ask me how good they are, ask your rear end after 2-3 hours of riding. Also check into different handle bars. Some of the normal mountain handle bars caused me to lean forward similar to the 10-speed syndrome. I replaced them (dealer swap, no charge) with more a more conventional type. Now when I ride I can see the sights, not just pavement or dirt. :-) Hope this helps a little. 73 Rob Paull (KA6SFV)