buying a bicycle

Question
I'm 59 years young and would like to start riding a bike again. I rode when I was younger, just for recreation and getting around my small town. I've always been healthy, except for a few extra pounds here and there, but never had anything where I was hospitalized until two years ago when I fell from a ladder and sustained a tibial plateau fracture to my right leg. My legs have always been strong; however, the injured leg is still weak compared to the other one. I had four surgeries, and finally a total knee replacement in February of this year.
I thought it important for you to know this when suggesting the type of bike I purchase, etc. I'm able to do pretty much everything I used to, with some mild adjusting here and there. I use a recumbent bike every day and my bend on the right knee is 120 degrees; not as good as the left knee at 130 degrees. Anyway, I hope this gives you enough information to make some suggestions. Thank you for your consideration.

Answer
Michelle,

First of all thank you for the question! When you say a "recumbent" bike I take it you mean a stationary indoor bike.

I first read your question on my mobile phone and have been pondering for a few hours now. At first I was going to suggest a recumbent road bike, or even a semi-recumbent, then I started to think about what you said "my bend on the right knee is 120 degrees; not as good as the left knee at 130 degrees." This really started to change my mind as to how I am going to answer this. The bike I am going to suggest is (insert drum roll) one that fits. OK, that may be a bit of a let down but here is what I mean. First I don't have enough information about you, where do you like to ride? Road, trails, off road? How often do you plan on riding? Everyday, a few times a week, once a month? When you do ride how much time do you plan to spend on the bike? An hour, a couple, what do you mean I have a time limit? These are more of the factors I need to know before I can suggest a bike.

When I mean a "bike that fits" I mean going to a bicycle fitting professional and explaining to her or him that you have had these injuries and surgeries. You do not have to be some racer/pro/elite rider to get a huge benefit from a fit professional; in your case I think it can make all the difference in the world. The last thing you want to do is hurt that knee, your recovery, or some other joint because you are compensating for the weaker leg. Most people that I advise on a new bike purchase I suggest finding a good bike shop that will take time to make sure the bike really fits. In your case I strongly suggest that you go the step further and seek out that shop that has a true bicycle fitting guru. Yes, this will cost a bit of money, but if you truly plan on riding a lot and not causing further harm it will be money well spent.

I don't know where you live, but you did say a small town. To find a bike fitting pro you may have to travel a bit... but it really will be worth it. I know a few different shops across the USA and I may be able to suggest someone. I will also be happy to continue to advise on the type of bicycle I would suggest if you could provide a bit more information. I can also help you walk into the shop prepared so you won't be intimidated. Bike shops can be scary, but they don't have to remain so if you go ready to ask questions and get what you want. So please keep writing, we'll get you back on a bike!

Best,

Tad