Recommendations for a bike for me mum!

[helsbells]

Evening,

Going to take my mum bike looking (as a precursor to actually bike shopping) this weekend. Was wondering if there were any recommendations for what sort of bike might suit her.

About 5'5", fifty five or so, a sporadic cycler (i.e. once every 6-8 years). Bike will be used mainly on roads, with the odd canal towpath.

I think my uncle has suggested a cycling holiday next summer, so ideally something she could work up to doing a reasonable amount of miles on, but probably doesn't need to be terribly fast!

So, where should I start? I was thinking ridgeback, maybe trek or giant? Don't currently know what the budget will be though, which I realise will impact on choices, but some starting points would be good.

Ta!

 

[Randochap]

Depends much on her natural or retained ability. In my experience as a bicycle salesperson, many "older" (I'm older than your mum) returning cyclists -- particularly women -- more easily feel comfortable on ... a "comfort" bike.

This style bike has setback seat tubes forward BB, which allow a more flat-footed and upright posture. There are some nice examples turning up by such manufacturers as Biria and Electra.

 

[Gerry Attrick]

Ah......my vision of her is on a Pashley Princess pedalling serenely along with her sausages hanging from her basket.

 

[helsbells]

Met my mum have you, Gerry?! lol!

Thanks for the recs, though, rando- will maybe have a sit down with her this weekend, and trawl thru some pics on t'interwebs!

Ah- vicarious bike purchasing. Almost as good as the real thing...

almost...