Bicycle advice needed

[thetropicmama7]

Hi, I haven't cycled in about 20 years when I used to zip around in my trusty red BMX when I was a kid. Due to a disc injury on my lower back, the physio has recommended taking up cycling as a form of exercise. I would very much appreciate recommendations on what bike to get. I really don't fancy going on the roads as I actually don't want to create traffic but was thinking more of a bike to go cycling on quite flat and even bike trails near our area. Any advice would be greatly appreciated

How far do you think you'll want to go? And what sort of budget?

If you want to go fast and far, then a cyclocross bike will be ideal - they are lighter than mountain bikes, and can cope with rough terrain. They have a position like a road bike, so they do make you use muscles further up your legs/bum/back than a more upright positioned bike.

Or a hybrid bike would work too. More upright, bit more of a mountain bike gearing, usually front suspension which takes out some of the vibration on rougher tracks. But heavier.

Have you talked to the physio about what sort of cycling position would be best for you?

I'd ask physio if you need suspension. Normally it's overkill unnecessary weight & expense, but with your back problem might be ideal.

Thanks everyone! I have to ask my physio about position. All she told me was that cycling would be good for my back condition, but she didn't recommend any rough mountain biking. She mentioned flat, even terrain.

A fairly upright position on a hybrid seemed to do my back good, for what it's worth.

Hypermobility in lower back.

I've an upper back problem, and use my hybrid type bike on forestry-commission tracks - so packed-down hardcore, not smooth gravel, but not muddy rough tracks either. I've no front suspension and have never missed it. Size of frame is maybe more important than anything else.

Maybe go to a bike shop and ask for advice - a proper independent is ideal, somewhere that the staff can give advice and stock a good variety, and will order in specific sizes and have aftercare.