Hi!
I'm Jeff. Just registered. Live in Wood River Illinois, a suburb of St. Louis on the Metro-East side of that great metropolis. I'm a Custom Protection Officer (a security officer, not someone in Customs) for a large security agency. I live in an area which has really built-up it's bicycle trails and other infrastructure for bikes--Madison County, where I live, has 85-plus miles of scenic trails, and St. Louis has gobs more. Only just got back into bike riding, initially as an alternative means of commuting to work as well as for fitness. I probably ride 6-10 miles every day, not really long rides but a start towards better health.
My bikes--I have three--are all department-store brands but they work and they're mine and I'll 'upgrade' as time goes on and I feel the need. Two of the bikes were actually 'cheapies' anyhow--one cost me $3.50 at a thrift shop, the other cost me $20.00. (Though to be honest, I spend quite a bit more than I should have on the $20.00 bike, which I bought mostly disassembled, and which I paid a bike shop to get into running order. Oddly enough, the $3.50 bike only needed air in the tires, a nut on the front fork, and a little lube and it has become my primary fitness cycle).
My third bike is a touring cycle I bought new from Target several years ago and allowed to rust and rot for awhile. I had some spare cash, so I had all three bikes put into running order and alternate the bikes as I feel like and/or as my purposes suit me. The touring bike is outfitted for a small bike trailer which I bought at the same time I got the bike; I haven't fixed the trailer up yet but plan to do so as my family and I make plans for bicycling adventures.
Hope this is a good intro. See everyone on the forums!