Given your age, no disrespect intended, a battery-assisted bike might be a smart choice. It will ride under your power like a normal bike, but when you need a boost, turn on the electric motor. They go pretty fast if needed, but can also keep you from overdoing it. They are pricey, but just might be worth it. Find a reputable bike shop and take a look.
@TexChik Our of the four brands I tried Trek was the one I liked the best. I have four friends actually that call a 30 mile ride just a ride around the block and a 60 mile ride Saturday morning fun. One did a ride from Venice California to Venice Florida. That is just mind boggling to me.
@TexChik Two years ago he and three buddies took their mountain bikes to Pittsburgh Pennsylvania in March and rode the trails from Pittsburgh to Washington DC. Their goal was to do it non stop in under 24 hours. March was too early in the year. They ran into snow. One guy wrecked his bike. They made in in 28 hours. They redid the ride in the fall and made it in under 24 hours. Could you imagine doing that.
I favour a mountain bike, it gives you more freedom and gets you away from traffic. All the brands listed are good, Orbea and Cube are worth a look too.