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Main
Date: 04 Jun 2007 01:49:46
From: Rob
Subject: Biking and Spines.
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Hi all,
I have a question that's rather important to me. Really its vital to
my health. So I want to ask some people other that sales people. (You
know how that goes).
I am looking at either a Scooter, or Bike and Bus for my
transportation needs now. I have not now as I needed to sell it.
I have a few problems that I need to address when thinking over what I
am going to do. And for the bike, its more important than the Scooter.
Namely, the style.
In the past 5 years, I have had 3 spine operations to my lower spine.
The last one fused S-1 to L-3. I have Rods and screws in there as
well. I also have arthritis all the way from there to my neck, and its
pretty bad in my neck, tends to give me head aches. To the typical
road bike all bent over is not for me.
I am looking for a smooth easy ride. Not to fast, but I want to get
there.
I have been looking at a few makes. (Good ones, not the Huffy from
Target). I have been going to real Bike shops and looking.
There is one brand that I have just learned about. The "Electra"
brand. They seem to have the legs up father than the seat normally is
on a bike, and the legs are kind of stretched out. And the feet while
they can be stretched out like they should be the legs can still tough
the ground. And being that's it lower, I can life my leg up and over
so I can get on and off OK. This bike is called the Townie. There is
another that they have that's does not set as low, and the peddles are
not as far forward as the Townie, and its called the Amsterdam. Kind
of looks like an old European bike. I have even considered some of the
better Cruisers.
I also have a weight problem and I am scared that I will bend a rim as
I have done on bikes years ago. I had a 10 speed that the read when
warped on my. I later learned that the bikes with the internal gears
were stronger due to the way the gears are set into the wheel. (Or so
I read). SO I was going for fewer gears (I never used more then a few
when I was a kid anyway, and I had a 10 speed.)
Here is the link to the Electra site. http://www.electrabike.com/06_new/flash_index.html
Here are the links to the Bikes above. There are different speed/
models of this one, but here is the 8 speed http://www.electrabike.com/06_new/flash_index.html
And here is the Amsterdam. This only comes in a 3 speed.
http://www.electrabike.com/06_new/flash_index.html
I was going to look at Hybrids, but was told that these bikes, the
Brownies mostly would be better for me with my spine issues. But to be
honest, I thought that I would want to stay straight , and not have my
spine lean one way or the other.
Now, after all that,I hope that someone here, anyone can give me some
insights. Its been years sense I was on a bike, and I am rather
ignored as to whats going on in the bike world.
Thanks bunches,
Rob
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Date: 04 Jun 2007 18:38:35
From: Rob
Subject: Re: Biking and Spines.
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On Jun 4, 12:52 am, R Brickston <rb20170REMOVE.yahoo.com@ > wrote:
> On Mon, 04 Jun 2007 03:13:32 GMT, Bill <b...@comcast.net> wrote:
> >Rob wrote:
> >> Hi all,
>
> >> Now, after all that,I hope that someone here, anyone can give me some
> >> insights. Its been years sense I was on a bike, and I am rather
> >> ignored as to whats going on in the bike world.
>
> >> Thanks bunches,
>
> >> Rob
>
> >If I were in your position I would probably go with a 26" mountain bike
> >style since you can pretty well sit up while riding. A decent one from a
> >bike shop should be around the $500 mark and you have someone who
> >actually knows bikes to help you get a good fit, unlike X-mart.
> >Depending on your back, it may make sense to get a soft springer saddle
> >and a springer seat post, plus maybe a rear suspension. A front
> >suspension takes the jolt out of tar strips in the road and can save
> >your wrists from some pain on a big jolt. It doesn't sound like you need
> >the speed, but rather just a comfortable ride, so if you are comfortable
> >riding upright at a mere 10-12 MPH, then go for it. Being the fastest
> >guy on the block doesn't matter as long as you get the exercise you need.
> >Best of luck.
> >Bill Baka
>
> Isn't it true that you ride a girls model as one of your main rides?- Hide quoted text -
>
> - Show quoted text -
Yes, right after you get off them and stop hogging the ride Mary!
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Date: 04 Jun 2007 19:37:19
From: Bill
Subject: Re: Biking and Spines.
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Rob wrote:
> On Jun 4, 12:52 am, R Brickston <rb20170REMOVE.yahoo.com@> wrote:
>> Isn't it true that you ride a girls model as one of your main rides?- Hide quoted text -
>>
>> - Show quoted text -
>
> Yes, right after you get off them and stop hogging the ride Mary!
>
My manhood is not in question so I ride the old girl when I feel like
it. And what is that one liner supposed to mean? The abuse of the
English language makes some replies unintelligible.
Bill (A bike is a bike) Baka
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Date: 03 Jun 2007 22:38:33
From: Camilo
Subject: Re: Biking and Spines.
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On Jun 3, 9:24 pm, Tim McNamara <tim...@bitstream.net > wrote:
> In article <1180921786.131837.294...@p77g2000hsh.googlegroups.com>,
>
> Rob <RCK...@gmail.com> wrote:
> > In the past 5 years, I have had 3 spine operations to my lower spine.
> > The last one fused S-1 to L-3. I have Rods and screws in there as
> > well. I also have arthritis all the way from there to my neck, and
> > its pretty bad in my neck, tends to give me head aches. To the
> > typical road bike all bent over is not for me.
>
> > I am looking for a smooth easy ride. Not to fast, but I want to get
> > there.
>
> My advice is to first consult your doctor and physical therapist about
> the choice of vehicle. ...
I also want to strongly urge this. Not only that, be assertive and
find a PT who is a cyclist to talk to. Someone who specifically
understands cycling and appreciates the benefits and the options.
Don't be afraid to 'interview' PTs - ask them what they know about
cycling. There are a million highly qualified PTs out there - you
want to find one who is highly qualified AND understands cycling.
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Date: 04 Jun 2007 00:24:27
From: Tim McNamara
Subject: Re: Biking and Spines.
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In article <1180921786.131837.294400@p77g2000hsh.googlegroups.com >,
Rob <RCKnKY@gmail.com > wrote:
> In the past 5 years, I have had 3 spine operations to my lower spine.
> The last one fused S-1 to L-3. I have Rods and screws in there as
> well. I also have arthritis all the way from there to my neck, and
> its pretty bad in my neck, tends to give me head aches. To the
> typical road bike all bent over is not for me.
>
> I am looking for a smooth easy ride. Not to fast, but I want to get
> there.
My advice is to first consult your doctor and physical therapist about
the choice of vehicle. You've had extensive surgery and you have other
ongoing problems with your spinal column which you obviously don't want
to aggravate. You also mention a weight problem, which also impels me
to suggest talking with your doctor to make sure that your general
health will not make starting to ride a bike unwise.
From what you say, it does sound like the standard road (racing) bike
would not be for you. If bending forward causes low back pain and/or
looking up causes neck pain, I'd think that would just about rule out a
road bike.
A bike with an upright position might do the trick. Here is where your
PT and MD can help guide your decision. Ask them about what would be
the optimal position.
A recumbent might be another option. A friend of mine with lumbar disk
problems has switched to a recumbent and the low back pain and leg
numbness is no longer a problem for him. Two other friends with
arthritis and herniated disks in their necks also find recumbents much
more comfortable- no more sore necks or numb hands.
Good luck!
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Date: 04 Jun 2007 04:11:57
From: Rob
Subject: Re: Biking and Spines.
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On Jun 3, 11:13 pm, Bill <b...@comcast.net > wrote:
> Rob wrote:
> > Hi all,
>
> > Now, after all that,I hope that someone here, anyone can give me some
> > insights. Its been years sense I was on a bike, and I am rather
> > ignored as to whats going on in the bike world.
>
> > Thanks bunches,
>
> > Rob
>
> If I were in your position I would probably go with a 26" mountain bike
> style since you can pretty well sit up while riding. A decent one from a
> bike shop should be around the $500 mark and you have someone who
> actually knows bikes to help you get a good fit, unlike X-mart.
> Depending on your back, it may make sense to get a soft springer saddle
> and a springer seat post, plus maybe a rear suspension. A front
> suspension takes the jolt out of tar strips in the road and can save
> your wrists from some pain on a big jolt. It doesn't sound like you need
> the speed, but rather just a comfortable ride, so if you are comfortable
> riding upright at a mere 10-12 MPH, then go for it. Being the fastest
> guy on the block doesn't matter as long as you get the exercise you need.
> Best of luck.
> Bill Baka
Thanks Bill, I will also take a look at that one.
Rob
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Date: 04 Jun 2007 04:11:28
From: Rob
Subject: Re: Biking and Spines.
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On Jun 3, 10:47 pm, landotter <landot...@gmail.com > wrote:
> On Jun 3, 8:49 pm, Rob <RCK...@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> > Hi all,
> [snip]
> > Now, after all that,I hope that someone here, anyone can give me some
> > insights. Its been years sense I was on a bike, and I am rather
> > ignored as to whats going on in the bike world.
>
> > Thanks bunches,
>
> > Rob
>
> The Electras are well made bikes. You see lots around here and people
> love them. Test ride one and see if you like it. The Amsterdam is just
> stunning and It'd be my choice due to the smart looks and
> practicality. The geometry is a whole other ball of wax. Sometimes too
> upright can be bad as well and cause spinal compression. My mild
> scoliosis likes a slight forward lean. This can all be adjusted with
> stem and bars, so bike model isn't critical. Could be different for
> you. I'm also wary of the super laid back riding position--but try it,
> you might like it. Another thing to try is a bike with more normal
> geometry, but with a drop tube frame--being not able to touch the
> ground while sitting *shouldn't* be a big deal, but being able to
> mount easily can be nice if you're not as flexible as you used to be.
>
> Ride 'em and see what you like. You might also consider a recumbent--
> but that's a lot more money, and they have limitations along with
> their benefits. I'm partial to the Amsterdam as I think it's a stunner
> and wonderfully full featured.
Thank you very much, I will look at it closer.
Rob
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Date: 04 Jun 2007 03:13:32
From: Bill
Subject: Re: Biking and Spines.
|
Rob wrote:
> Hi all,
>
>
> Now, after all that,I hope that someone here, anyone can give me some
> insights. Its been years sense I was on a bike, and I am rather
> ignored as to whats going on in the bike world.
>
> Thanks bunches,
>
> Rob
>
If I were in your position I would probably go with a 26" mountain bike
style since you can pretty well sit up while riding. A decent one from a
bike shop should be around the $500 mark and you have someone who
actually knows bikes to help you get a good fit, unlike X-mart.
Depending on your back, it may make sense to get a soft springer saddle
and a springer seat post, plus maybe a rear suspension. A front
suspension takes the jolt out of tar strips in the road and can save
your wrists from some pain on a big jolt. It doesn't sound like you need
the speed, but rather just a comfortable ride, so if you are comfortable
riding upright at a mere 10-12 MPH, then go for it. Being the fastest
guy on the block doesn't matter as long as you get the exercise you need.
Best of luck.
Bill Baka
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Date: 04 Jun 2007 04:52:48
From: R Brickston
Subject: Re: Biking and Spines.
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On Mon, 04 Jun 2007 03:13:32 GMT, Bill <bbaka@comcast.net > wrote:
>Rob wrote:
>> Hi all,
>>
>>
>> Now, after all that,I hope that someone here, anyone can give me some
>> insights. Its been years sense I was on a bike, and I am rather
>> ignored as to whats going on in the bike world.
>>
>> Thanks bunches,
>>
>> Rob
>>
>If I were in your position I would probably go with a 26" mountain bike
>style since you can pretty well sit up while riding. A decent one from a
>bike shop should be around the $500 mark and you have someone who
>actually knows bikes to help you get a good fit, unlike X-mart.
>Depending on your back, it may make sense to get a soft springer saddle
>and a springer seat post, plus maybe a rear suspension. A front
>suspension takes the jolt out of tar strips in the road and can save
>your wrists from some pain on a big jolt. It doesn't sound like you need
>the speed, but rather just a comfortable ride, so if you are comfortable
>riding upright at a mere 10-12 MPH, then go for it. Being the fastest
>guy on the block doesn't matter as long as you get the exercise you need.
>Best of luck.
>Bill Baka
Isn't it true that you ride a girls model as one of your main rides?
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Date: 03 Jun 2007 22:59:15
From: Bill
Subject: Re: Biking and Spines.
|
R Brickston wrote:
> On Mon, 04 Jun 2007 03:13:32 GMT, Bill <bbaka@comcast.net> wrote:
>
>> Rob wrote:
>>> Hi all,
>>>
>>>
>>> Now, after all that,I hope that someone here, anyone can give me some
>>> insights. Its been years sense I was on a bike, and I am rather
>>> ignored as to whats going on in the bike world.
>>>
>>> Thanks bunches,
>>>
>>> Rob
>>>
>> If I were in your position I would probably go with a 26" mountain bike
>> style since you can pretty well sit up while riding. A decent one from a
>> bike shop should be around the $500 mark and you have someone who
>> actually knows bikes to help you get a good fit, unlike X-mart.
>> Depending on your back, it may make sense to get a soft springer saddle
>> and a springer seat post, plus maybe a rear suspension. A front
>> suspension takes the jolt out of tar strips in the road and can save
>> your wrists from some pain on a big jolt. It doesn't sound like you need
>> the speed, but rather just a comfortable ride, so if you are comfortable
>> riding upright at a mere 10-12 MPH, then go for it. Being the fastest
>> guy on the block doesn't matter as long as you get the exercise you need.
>> Best of luck.
>> Bill Baka
>
> Isn't it true that you ride a girls model as one of your main rides?
Only the famous Huffy that I bought for my daughter. It still rides but
is down to about third place in the miles per year. Damn thing won't
break so why just toss it? I was actually raised to be conservative and
not throw good stuff in the trash.
I am an anti-yuppie.
Bill Baka
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Date: 04 Jun 2007 08:37:57
From: R Brickston
Subject: Re: Biking and Spines.
|
On Sun, 03 Jun 2007 22:59:15 -0700, Bill <bbaka@comcast.net > wrote:
>R Brickston wrote:
>> On Mon, 04 Jun 2007 03:13:32 GMT, Bill <bbaka@comcast.net> wrote:
>>
>>> Rob wrote:
>>>> Hi all,
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Now, after all that,I hope that someone here, anyone can give me some
>>>> insights. Its been years sense I was on a bike, and I am rather
>>>> ignored as to whats going on in the bike world.
>>>>
>>>> Thanks bunches,
>>>>
>>>> Rob
>>>>
>>> If I were in your position I would probably go with a 26" mountain bike
>>> style since you can pretty well sit up while riding. A decent one from a
>>> bike shop should be around the $500 mark and you have someone who
>>> actually knows bikes to help you get a good fit, unlike X-mart.
>>> Depending on your back, it may make sense to get a soft springer saddle
>>> and a springer seat post, plus maybe a rear suspension. A front
>>> suspension takes the jolt out of tar strips in the road and can save
>>> your wrists from some pain on a big jolt. It doesn't sound like you need
>>> the speed, but rather just a comfortable ride, so if you are comfortable
>>> riding upright at a mere 10-12 MPH, then go for it. Being the fastest
>>> guy on the block doesn't matter as long as you get the exercise you need.
>>> Best of luck.
>>> Bill Baka
>>
>> Isn't it true that you ride a girls model as one of your main rides?
>
>Only the famous Huffy that I bought for my daughter. It still rides but
>is down to about third place in the miles per year. Damn thing won't
>break so why just toss it? I was actually raised to be conservative and
>not throw good stuff in the trash.
>I am an anti-yuppie.
>Bill Baka
Are you still sniffing after that underage girl in the neighborhood?
The one you were bragging that's always hitting on you for sex? Or was
that before the electroshock treatments?
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Date: 04 Jun 2007 02:42:21
From: Bill
Subject: Re: Biking and Spines.
|
R Brickston wrote:
> On Sun, 03 Jun 2007 22:59:15 -0700, Bill <bbaka@comcast.net> wrote:
>
>> R Brickston wrote:
>>> On Mon, 04 Jun 2007 03:13:32 GMT, Bill <bbaka@comcast.net> wrote:
>>>
>>>> Rob wrote:
>>>>> Hi all,
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> Now, after all that,I hope that someone here, anyone can give me some
>>>>> insights. Its been years sense I was on a bike, and I am rather
>>>>> ignored as to whats going on in the bike world.
>>>>>
>>>>> Thanks bunches,
>>>>>
>>>>> Rob
>>>>>
>>>> If I were in your position I would probably go with a 26" mountain bike
>>>> style since you can pretty well sit up while riding. A decent one from a
>>>> bike shop should be around the $500 mark and you have someone who
>>>> actually knows bikes to help you get a good fit, unlike X-mart.
>>>> Depending on your back, it may make sense to get a soft springer saddle
>>>> and a springer seat post, plus maybe a rear suspension. A front
>>>> suspension takes the jolt out of tar strips in the road and can save
>>>> your wrists from some pain on a big jolt. It doesn't sound like you need
>>>> the speed, but rather just a comfortable ride, so if you are comfortable
>>>> riding upright at a mere 10-12 MPH, then go for it. Being the fastest
>>>> guy on the block doesn't matter as long as you get the exercise you need.
>>>> Best of luck.
>>>> Bill Baka
>>> Isn't it true that you ride a girls model as one of your main rides?
>> Only the famous Huffy that I bought for my daughter. It still rides but
>> is down to about third place in the miles per year. Damn thing won't
>> break so why just toss it? I was actually raised to be conservative and
>> not throw good stuff in the trash.
>> I am an anti-yuppie.
>> Bill Baka
>
> Are you still sniffing after that underage girl in the neighborhood?
> The one you were bragging that's always hitting on you for sex? Or was
> that before the electroshock treatments?
Not really. She is 16 now and I am getting to where I would rather ride.
It's still a thought between us but not a big topic of conversation.
Ask me again in 2 years. I'm still married.
Bill Baka
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Date: 04 Jun 2007 11:08:57
From: R Brickston
Subject: Re: Biking and Spines.
|
On Mon, 04 Jun 2007 02:42:21 -0700, Bill <bbaka@comcast.net > wrote:
>R Brickston wrote:
>> On Sun, 03 Jun 2007 22:59:15 -0700, Bill <bbaka@comcast.net> wrote:
>>
>>> R Brickston wrote:
>>>> On Mon, 04 Jun 2007 03:13:32 GMT, Bill <bbaka@comcast.net> wrote:
>>>>
>>>>> Rob wrote:
>>>>>> Hi all,
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Now, after all that,I hope that someone here, anyone can give me some
>>>>>> insights. Its been years sense I was on a bike, and I am rather
>>>>>> ignored as to whats going on in the bike world.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Thanks bunches,
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Rob
>>>>>>
>>>>> If I were in your position I would probably go with a 26" mountain bike
>>>>> style since you can pretty well sit up while riding. A decent one from a
>>>>> bike shop should be around the $500 mark and you have someone who
>>>>> actually knows bikes to help you get a good fit, unlike X-mart.
>>>>> Depending on your back, it may make sense to get a soft springer saddle
>>>>> and a springer seat post, plus maybe a rear suspension. A front
>>>>> suspension takes the jolt out of tar strips in the road and can save
>>>>> your wrists from some pain on a big jolt. It doesn't sound like you need
>>>>> the speed, but rather just a comfortable ride, so if you are comfortable
>>>>> riding upright at a mere 10-12 MPH, then go for it. Being the fastest
>>>>> guy on the block doesn't matter as long as you get the exercise you need.
>>>>> Best of luck.
>>>>> Bill Baka
>>>> Isn't it true that you ride a girls model as one of your main rides?
>>> Only the famous Huffy that I bought for my daughter. It still rides but
>>> is down to about third place in the miles per year. Damn thing won't
>>> break so why just toss it? I was actually raised to be conservative and
>>> not throw good stuff in the trash.
>>> I am an anti-yuppie.
>>> Bill Baka
>>
>> Are you still sniffing after that underage girl in the neighborhood?
>> The one you were bragging that's always hitting on you for sex? Or was
>> that before the electroshock treatments?
>
>Not really. She is 16 now and I am getting to where I would rather ride.
>It's still a thought between us but not a big topic of conversation.
>Ask me again in 2 years. I'm still married.
>Bill Baka
You're having conversations with a 16 year old girl about you, a 58
year old man, having sexual intercourse with her. There you go, you
are one sick puppy.
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Date: 04 Jun 2007 17:53:25
From: Bill
Subject: Re: Biking and Spines.
|
R Brickston wrote:
> On Mon, 04 Jun 2007 02:42:21 -0700, Bill <bbaka@comcast.net> wrote:
>
>> Not really. She is 16 now and I am getting to where I would rather ride.
>> It's still a thought between us but not a big topic of conversation.
>> Ask me again in 2 years. I'm still married.
>> Bill Baka
>
> You're having conversations with a 16 year old girl about you, a 58
> year old man, having sexual intercourse with her. There you go, you
> are one sick puppy.
I'm actually trying to back out of anything like that, but at the same
time trying to convince her that doing anything with someone in high
school is a very bad idea. It's more a case of advice gone off the road.
The idea is to keep her from doing like her mom and getting pregnant at 17.
I know it comes off as weird but if it keeps her from messing up then it
has served a purpose.
I really don't have any intentions except to see her get to college.
Bill Baka
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Date: 03 Jun 2007 19:47:43
From: landotter
Subject: Re: Biking and Spines.
|
On Jun 3, 8:49 pm, Rob <RCK...@gmail.com > wrote:
> Hi all,
[snip]
> Now, after all that,I hope that someone here, anyone can give me some
> insights. Its been years sense I was on a bike, and I am rather
> ignored as to whats going on in the bike world.
>
> Thanks bunches,
>
> Rob
The Electras are well made bikes. You see lots around here and people
love them. Test ride one and see if you like it. The Amsterdam is just
stunning and It'd be my choice due to the smart looks and
practicality. The geometry is a whole other ball of wax. Sometimes too
upright can be bad as well and cause spinal compression. My mild
scoliosis likes a slight forward lean. This can all be adjusted with
stem and bars, so bike model isn't critical. Could be different for
you. I'm also wary of the super laid back riding position--but try it,
you might like it. Another thing to try is a bike with more normal
geometry, but with a drop tube frame--being not able to touch the
ground while sitting *shouldn't* be a big deal, but being able to
mount easily can be nice if you're not as flexible as you used to be.
Ride 'em and see what you like. You might also consider a recumbent--
but that's a lot more money, and they have limitations along with
their benefits. I'm partial to the Amsterdam as I think it's a stunner
and wonderfully full featured.
|
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Date: 04 Jun 2007 01:57:08
From: Nexus7
Subject: Re: Biking and Spines.
|
On Jun 3, 8:49 pm, Rob <RCK...@gmail.com > wrote:
> In the past 5 years, I have had 3 spine operations to my lower spine.
> ... To the typical road bike all bent over is not for me.
> I am looking for a smooth easy ride. Not to fast, but I want to get
This is obviously not medical advice, but sounds like you want a full-
suspension hybrid bike.
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