Hello again,
 DM> There are numerous complaints about keeping the caliper
 DM> breaks adjusted and functioning correctly. Many have told me
Caliper breaks are only found on Murrays and Huffys these days.  They
have ceased to exist on quality bikes long ago.  Cantaleavered (probably
spelled that one wrong) on the other hand will stop you MUCH more efficiently
than coaster breaks and are not a hassle to adjust.  I put more than 5000
miles on a set of pads with out adjusting anything but the small barrel
adjuster on the handle bar.  They still work great.  I understand your
concern about buying a "basic" bike, but being able to stop is a safety
issue.  It is cheaper to buy good breaks than to pay hospital bills.
 DM> I have made contact with Schwinn and Huffy (They both have
 DM> coaster brake bikes with internal Shimano 3 speed hubs).
I don't think I've ever seen Schwinn and Huffy in the same sentence before!
Schwinn is a bicycle manufacturer.  Huffy is a toy producer.  A Huffy will
only give you problems.  The frames of inferior quality, the components
are cheap.  There is NO resale value, and they are unsafe.  If you want
a toy that doesn't shift, weighs a ton, and doesn't stop, go for the Huffy.
 DM> I'm also looking for the address of the Murry Bicycle Co.
Big mistake.  I owned a Murray long ago.  I replaced the rear derailer
three times, the front derailer twice, the wheels not only rusted, but
didn't hold true for more than a week.  The frame rusted.  The breaks
needed half a mile to stop you.  The shifters didn't work properly.  Every
day something needed adjustment.  A friend of mine was riding up a hill
on a Murray.  He stood up to pedal and the handle bar broke!  I've also
seen grade schoolers break the frames on little Murray bikes.  If you weigh
less than 500 pounds, you should never be able to break a frame even if you
are trying!
I don't care if you are a casual rider or not.  Buy a quality bicycle or
don't buy a bike at all.  Murrays and Huffys are toys.  I wouldn't trust
them to go around the block.  They are attractive because they are cheap,
but they are just that -- cheap.  You get what you pay for.  I suggest
doling out some cash now for a bike that won't need to be replaced next
month.
 DM> Just having had prostate surgery (TURP), I have a few months
 DM> left before I have to make my choice. I don't mind paying a
 DM> little extra when I know what I am getting for the
 DM> difference.
It sounds like a quality hybrid bike would suit you well.  Get something
with at least Alivio components (forget about that three speed hub stuff),
a decent cro moly frame and you will have years of casual riding without
any of the problems or "adjustments" you fear.  Quite simply, a quality
multi-speed bike needs little to no adjustment or maintenance if it is used
for casual riding.  If you are basing your fears on experiences with Murrays
and Huffys, rest assured, a quality bike will not give you the hassle that
a cheap toy will.
Happy riding,
Lucas
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