Bulletin Board

Can you recommend a bike for me?

Hi, I am 5'3" woman and am close to 250 lbs, really trying to lose weight but haven't been on a bike in 15 years. I remember how I used to love riding my bike as a teenager and want to get back to that.. slowly but steadily. I am most likely to find deserted roads to ride in at first and some well laid trails.

What bike would you recommend for me? I can spend up to $500.

Thanks in advance!!
 

Comments

's avatar

Janaky,

If money is lacking to buy the equipment that is best for you, I recommend asking God where you would find the funds you need.  Riding outside is motivating, yet the heat of summer and the cold of winter can be unmotivating.  Also, rain and abusive individuals can demotivate cyclists.  For a fat loss program, I personally recommend buying an indoor trainer and bike.  With an indoor trainer, you can watch videos and listen to music or electronic books.  The Giant Dash might be a good choice for you to start, and you could go on roads and well laid trails too with it.  However, the Dash is a heavier bike than other options.  I have a Dash for fitness and transportation.  Investing in your health is the right decision.

Cheerfully,
Sallie Ireland

Avatar

Like you I have not ridden in 10-15 years, and am overweight. I just bought a Cypress at the local bike store, the other day. On sale at a great price.
It rides really nice, though shifting gears is something I need to get used to.
And starting out on less traveled areas is a must to learn gears and get your butt and legs used to riding, as I am doing right now.
Hope this helps.

Avatar

Janaky,

It is great that you are motivated to get back on your bike and work on getting fit again. Cycling is the perfect way to do it because it’s not jarring like running. It sort of sounds like you’ll be riding both on the road and maybe some fire road or double-track trails. In that case I would lean more towards either a Cypress DX W, a Boulder SE W, or maybe even a Rincon W.

The Cypress DX W sits more upright, has a big cushy seat with a suspension seat post, has 24 speeds, and goes for $500. The Boulder SE W sits upright, has wider tires, a suspension fork, and goes for $380! Or you could check out the Rincon W, which is a little more of an off-road bike. You still sit upright, but you’ve got fatter tires, front suspension, and costs $500. So you’ve definitely got some options with these bikes.

A very important thing to remember, which I’m sure you already know is that while exercise is a fantastic way to kick start weight loss you have to also be committed with diet. What you eat and drink are probably 50% of the equation. So many people are gung-ho and start riding or exercising, but keep over-eating or drinking soda and can’t understand why they can’t lose the weight. So just remember how important your diet is and use a program that works for you. Not something that works for someone else. It may take some time, but you’ll find it and you’ll shed the pounds in no time!

Take care and good luck!
Tara

Avatar

Janaky,
I am 4’ 11” and heavy and just bought the Sedona DX.  It was recommended for my height and the wide tires for stability.  I have not been on a bike since the 80’s but after a bit of practice I already love this bike.  You sit upright, the handle bars can be adjusted as well as the seat. It cost me under $500 and hopefully will be with me for a long time.  Good luck with your search.  There certainly are alot of choices in the Giant line.  I think you also have to be comfortable where you buy the bike from.  I felt very at ease with the sales people I dealt with and did not feel embarassed about not being on a bike in years or frankly - my weight.  So that is a factor too, because most likely you will be bringing the bike back for service and adjustments.  So good luck!

Add a Comment

You must be a Ride Society member to post comments. Please Sign In or Join Now.
 

 
 

Ride Finder

Connect with other women who enjoy cycling as much as you.