erikahollister's Journal, 25 August 2016

Sorry I'm no help on the bike, but I sure wish you luck! 

It depends how much cash you have and what type of riding you will be doing. The cheaper the bike, the heavier it is- but since you are on mostly flat roads, I would suggest a good quality mountain bike. Road bikes get to be pretty costly... I would also suggest looking for hills and riding those- that is where the real calorie burn comes in. Flat roads, in my experience at least, do not yield significant results. 

what beary says is true..depends on cash and if your gonna be an avid rider or not... 

Since my fitness level is still pretty basic, I'm just looking to move, not so much to challenge with hills just yet. There are some around when I'm ready for them, though. That's the thing about valleys............ 

I have the same question. We don't have many hills and the roads are paved, but I still have trouble walking here, so I imagine riding a bike would be hard at first, too. Different muscles are used that's for sure and I can remember the thigh burn.. Still it's much better on the joint, knees in particular, don't ya think? Do you have a friend that you could borrow a bike for a test run before buying. Good luck.. Donna 

when I read/hear someone is getting a bicycle I think of my 1 of my favorite parts in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid movie with "my men".....do you know it? 

Go to actual bicycle shop where they will size the bike to your body - bikes come in sizes - they should adjust your seat and handle bars. I have a bike made for pavement and gravel - but would go with thinner tires if I could buy again! 

I checked out bikes early this summer and loved the Specialized Vita. It was $600 and I was not able to "pull the trigger". I test rode it and it was awesome.... 

yes a regular bike shop is a wealth of information! I have 2 bikes (used) one that is just a plain (breaks on pedals) bike I use for the beach and one that has speeds (5 or 7 I think, lol) that I use for the road. I've had issues with both, BUT the bike store helped me. They are a bit expensive for a new bike so I'm saving up for a new one eventually. I want to ride more but it is too hot here right now! Good biking to you! 

when i first started..i started with a walmart bike..but the more i rode..the more i found out about bikes..an even though i have alot of weight on me...i enjoy riding ..i went with a new road bike 2 years ago...it was worth it..its weight is about 17 pounds...compared to 38 from the walmart bike...less to push when your riding...but more money as well..it all comes down to if your gonna fall in love with riding a bike on a regular basis or not.. 

Ahhh. SjF60, good one. "Raindrops keep falling on my head . . ." 

I found a generic 10 speed easiest to start out, if they are paved trails. You can play with the gears, make it really easy to start with, then as you gain strength and wind, you can use harder and harder gears to get more of a workout, and if you end up tired, still switch back to an easier gear to get home. Unbelievebly easier and more encouraging than a cheap bike 

ya happy birthday have a grat year  

If you are going on the paved roads watch your ass because there is a lot of nuts behind the wheel. Stay safe!!! 

How fun! Starting a new activity sounds exciting. Happy birthday!!! 

i love my diamond back. sturdy, comfortable i can ride so much further than i used to  

happy birthday... 

i'd love to ride again . tried back when i was heavier but just could not. maybe now that i'm less heavy. my balance just isn't great. used to love to ride 

Happy Birthday!! I would just go to a few bike shops and some chain stores - get a bike and sit on it - buy the one that feels the most comfortable for you. If that is a classic or super fancy, go for it. Personally, I am almost ready to purchase one of my own - but having trouble deciding between a Schwinn classic and an adult trike (3 wheels). I have friends who have both types and they love them. 

Happy Trails and Happy Birthday....fun!!!