Ed:
You're a wise man ... it has only taken you 45 years to do something for your joints and quality of life... good job. My wife has another 3 years to go, before she can call it a day with the Post Office and then, we are either southbound or westbound. I am only a year older than you, have had 3 spine fusion surgeries in the last 18 months, and can't wait to leave the NY winters behind me. Buy a good bike, a strong helmet, and an iPod ... you'll be all set.
Good luck ,
Rich