Big Ray

I went to my local Dynaic Vision optometrist with a pair of old oaley's that I am no longer able to get lenses for, they indicated that their lab should be able to replicate a set of lenses, I didn't take it any further but perhaps that is an option for you.

Looking for a bike is half the fun, I agree with the advice given, choose a bike with the highest spec you can find within your budget, it will make riding that much more enjoyable, having said that you don't know what you don't know and therfore it cannot hurt you but if the bug bites, you will notice the short commings of a 5k makro bike very quicky. Hydraulic brakes are a good place to start as the spec of the rest of the components should also be of a reasonable spec. Enjoy the journey.

The road???

Oakley sport jackets (jawbones) they're so light and comfortable I only remember I have them on when I walk inside. I've tried other brands and nothing comes close, in my opinion.

I'm personally not all that familier with the bikes you've msntioned but my advice is fairly simple as it's the way I would approach it, choose the highest spec bike you can find for your money, that way you'll feel confident with the purchase from a value point of view as well as, and most importantly, the confidence in the piece of equipment under you.

I would advise that you find a bike with hydraulic brakes, generally if a bike has hydraulic brakes the other components are fairly good as well and for your height probably a large frame would be best. If possible try riding for a while first and find out what you like before you buy, possibly buy a cheapie and ride for a while until you can make up your mind for sure, then sell the cheapie and get the bike you want. Enjoy the ride.

If you're not a competitive rider it really won't make much of a difference for a weekend worrior.

I'm inclined to agree with DD but that's purely because j ride a 29er. You can pick up a 29er for a good price just look around a bit however you can find a better speced 26er for probably the same money, it all depends on you. One of the trails I ride I sometimes think of getting a 26er.

So sorry to hear of your loss, may he rest in peace.

Both these bikes have similar specifications so I suppose it comes down to your personal choice.

I don't understand why people have to spoil things for others it's something I've never understood.

I certainly hope something is done and it isn't just brushed under the carpet.

Good point, they'll more than likely eventually introduce a safety device for it and it will become the norm but until then safety will be compromised.

I saw they were being introduced into road bikes, close contact racing like that certainly exposes the risks not necessarily considered in the sweeping broom of progress.

This is in fact very good advice, there's nothing like the confidence riding a new bike gives you, so yes if you have the budget for it go new and get all the advice from the cycle shop that comes with it. Then ride it as often as you can, it is a very fulfilling sport.