Help in selecting bike for

[Delpo]

My wife expressed an interest in getting a bike so that she might ride with our 7 year old son. For Mother's day I bought her a pretty basic Specialized Mountain Bike and she is getting the hang of it. Guess what, she now wants me to join these fun in the park rides. I would love to do that but do not feel comfortable taking a road bike into that environment. What options do I have? What type of bike will allow me to do the park rides but at the same time add a new tool to my cycling arsenal?

1. Cross bike?
2. SS/Fixed?
3. Give in and buy a cheap mountain bike?
4. Any other?

Thanks to all for your help.

Delpo

[Bruce K]

My wife rides a very little bit and got me to get her "a bike like mine". Due to health issues, her speed is low and the routes are short.

I have happily ridden both my cross bike and my single speed with her.

I would personally be leery of a fixed gear at what is sure to be low speeds with frequent stops. The ability to coast on occassion will be a desired quality of the new ride.

BK