I’d like to get a bike for recreation and exercise. Efficiency and effectiveness of the ride are not high on my list of requirements, stability and safety of use are. Looking at the various models today, I had the following impressions:
- I like wide, off-road tires for grip and stability
- I prefer more vertical sitting position
- I prefer drop frame to straight frames for ease of dismounting
- I like cowlings over the chain to keep the pan legs out of it
- I like mudguards
I am undecided on the question of suspension. In theory, for mixed road and off-road use, double front and back suspension would lead to smoother ride. Would I be giving up controllability and ease of precise steering with the softer suspension?
What safety gear and wear would I want, besides a helmet? Elbow, knee, hand protection?
I am less concerned with the cost of the bike than with getting it right for me on the first try. Since I don’t care about super light weight, perhaps that would partially offset the other features I seek. I also don’t care if the frame is traditional mens or womens model, so long as it fits my requirements.