New bike for returning cyclist with some back and knee issues

[Portland2000]

Hope I can get some help on this one - used to cycle a good bit when I lived a little closer to the Peak District and had a managable commute to work, but haven't cycled for 15-ish years now. Only want to get back into cycle path and trail riding, going 50/50 with the missus towing the offspring in a Burley.

Complication is that I had back surgery 8 years back (3 layer lumbar fusion - 3 less discs, but more meccano and bone grafts which have hopefully fused long since.) The other complication is that I have a rather rare knee condition (PVNS) that can cause pain and swelling if it gets too much strain.

So, I'm after opinions (ideally from people who have experienced back surgery) as to whether I'm better going for a hybrid or MTB, and if the latter, rigid, hardtail or full susp. Please bear in mind I'll be towing much of the time. Similarly, is it worth me looking at a slightly smaller frame than I'd usually go for to get a more "sit up and beg" position and/or raising handlebar a little (if there's stem to allow ofc)

Related - I've also got an ancient (and not lightweight) Dawes kickback in the shed in need of much tlc. I'd need to replace brakes, grips, headset, saddle, brake levers, possibly back wheel (and thus cassette) and maybe a few cables and guides. Given I've got limited time for fiddling with 2 small people and am also out of practice with fettling, am I better just donating it to a worthy charity rather than shelling out for a low-mid new bike? Not really got a feel for what components go for these days.

Thanks in advance peeps

 

[Portland2000]

Oh yes, the old Dawes has an ancient Girvin flex stem, which I assume is shot by now, hence stem/headset replacement too.

Just thought I'd mention it so you could point and laugh at the old kit.

 

[Spoked Wheels]

Hello portland2000,

I cannot offer advice on bike / back other that bike fitting is very important in your case. I know that a saddle too far back causes lower back pain but you need to find out more.

As for knee pain you want to be on a low gear,as little resistance as possible.

I have a feeling that you would be better off with a new bike or perhaps a good used bike. It would certainly save you the time.
Good luck

 

[cuske]

I'm also asking questions about my back with the thinking that it would be a good stretch, but with yours if you down by 3 lumbar disks which are your shock absorbers I'd guess a full suspension mountain bike would be your best bet as any big bumps will be exaggerated in the good disks you have. As for the rest of it I'm clueless, I'm sure someone will have the answers though.

 

[Pale Rider]

An ebike - electric motor assist - would keep some of the strain off your knee, particularly while towing.

Lots of choice these days, woosh are as good as any under £1K:

http://www.wooshbikes.co.uk/

Much nicer kit available elsewhere for more money:

http://www.shop.flidistribution.co.uk/c/ktm_bicycles_ebikes

 

[Portland2000]

Thanks folks, keep em coming. Any input from people that have had back surgery especially appreciated.

Went to local Evans and they were reluctant to really give any advice (presumably afraid of being sued!) Will only really be poddling around parks, tracks and trails, no bombing downhills with the kids shrieking with delight in the back (the elder one loves a good run out in the car - "Wheeee!"

 

[the snail]

is it worth me looking at a slightly smaller frame than I'd usually go for to get a more "sit up and beg" position and/or raising handlebar a little (if there's stem to allow ofc)


Thanks in advance peeps

I think you should buy the correct size for your build - a smaller frame will probably mean the handlebars are lower. If you need to raise the handlebars, get a stem with more rise, or an adjustable one, and/or an extension for the steerer