[Polar Bear]

We'll be moving to TV sometime in the next few months. I will be riding a bike a lot for both transportation and exercise. And I need to buy a new bike. I just thought I'd see if any of you Villages cyclers have any advice for a good type of bike for TV riding.

Here's the one major issue I have...I am 6'-6" tall. The bike must fit me properly. Any advice? I hear Gunnar makes a pretty good large-size bike. But I'm still in the early stages of my research, so all input is welcome.

[anarick]

Sdavis44--Most bike shops can fit you on a bike no matter how tall or short you are. The terrain in the villages is pretty flat so I suggest you try a hybrid which can be used on the road or off. Hybrids can be used on pavement or path.
You can spend alot on a new bike but I'm sure you can get a used one for good price.

[GaryW]

Here are few places to look. How far would you be commuting for work on the bike. I ride about 8-9 miles to work everyday then 70 plus on the weekends. I have a road bike. Great ride. All depends on how far you ride and the level you are wanting to ride at.

Santos Bike Shop — A Bicycle Built For You
Welcome to Village Cycles

David's World Cycle - Florida's Premier Bicycle Outfitter.
This is one I purchased my bike from.

[Polar Bear]

Thanks for the references.

Just a bit more question...is there any real need to go "off-road" in TV? I'm kind of leaning toward a hybrid, or possibly even a full-blown mountain bike, just so I can go off-pavement if I ever need to. I'll be riding mainly for exercise and fun. I won't be racing or in any particular hurry, although I will bike hard when I'm exercising. At my size (6'-6") I'm mainly concerned with comfort and fit. So I'm open to all information...street, hybrid, mountain...anything that fits me well.

[GaryW]

Originally Posted by sdavis44

Thanks for the references.

Just a bit more question...is there any real need to go "off-road" in TV? I'm kind of leaning toward a hybrid, or possibly even a full-blown mountain bike, just so I can go off-pavement if I ever need to. I'll be riding mainly for exercise and fun. I won't be racing or in any particular hurry, although I will bike hard when I'm exercising. At my size (6'-6") I'm mainly concerned with comfort and fit. So I'm open to all information...street, hybrid, mountain...anything that fits me well.

Check with Mark at Villages Cycles or talk with Steve Argronic. That would be your best bet... Go in there and try different bikes out. You can get a flat bar bike. They will put you on what you need, check the size and all for you.

[llaran]

Don't be fooled there are several areas which are hilly - talk to the guys in the bike club - Village Community Development Districts - rec de[t - a list of all clubs in the villages with ph#'s

[Down Sized]

I have two Cannondales. One hybrid & one mountain bike. I usually ride about 80 to 100 miles a week. Both are tall frames. I agree there is a good bike shop by Spanish Springs. But if you live in a larger city you would get a better price buying there and bringing it with you. I brought both of mine with me. Most everything is higher around The Villages. Even bicycles.

[bob47]

Type of bike is more important than brand. It's my feeling that a flat bar road bike is the best choice for a lot of folks here.

Narrow tires and light frame like traditional road bike, but flat handlebars for a familiar, upright riding position and familiar shifters and brakes.