| Many mountain bikers are exhibiting what might be | | | | retro way to go out and enjoy the nice days of |
| called "Single-Speed Syndrome". While these might | | | | summer. Depending on how, where,and how much |
| tend to be purists in the sense of wanting to keep | | | | you are going to ride would influence how much you |
| their back to nature exercise as simple as possible, | | | | may want to spend on a new bike. Most good local |
| single speed bicycles promise to be a good way to | | | | bike shops will have experienced and well trained |
| get outdoors for some exercise, fresh air, and fun. | | | | personnel on hand to offer advice and suggestions |
| For the average Baby Boomer however, and for | | | | on what would be the best bike for you. Certainly, |
| most Boomers I think, riding with a single speed | | | | like everything else made, the internet offers endless |
| bicycle will be done on more level bike paths and | | | | info, price comparisons ,etc. to help with your initial |
| perhaps city parks. | | | | search. I would suggest that you find a bike shop |
| There is a reason that the first mountain bikes | | | | that has been in business awhile and one that you |
| evolved into the multi-geared, full-suspension beasts | | | | are comfortable in to make your final decision. A |
| they are now. Pedaling a rigid single speed is just plain | | | | good,experienced salesperson/bike tech can be |
| hard work. Personally, I can't imagine doing any | | | | invaluable in helping you with your decision. |
| mountain biking with just one gear. I can certainly | | | | What is important though is to get out and get your |
| admire those who are sufficiently physically | | | | exercise and to have fun doing it. If you have |
| conditioned to be able to climb those hills without | | | | someone you can ride with, even better. As we all |
| lower gears. Some time ago, I sold my mountain bike | | | | continue to age, it critical that we exercise on a |
| and bought a new hybrid bike so I could enjoy more | | | | regular basis. For me, and others I suspect, the |
| street riding and less off the road trails. Be sure that | | | | winter is the most difficult time for me to keep up |
| whatever bicycle you may decide on, that it fits you, | | | | an exercise schedule. When the weather is more |
| your needs, and your lifestyle. | | | | moderate though, I love to be outside running, |
| Single Speed Bicycles do offer a simple, somewhat | | | | walking, hiking and biking. |