Get the knee done Jim,had mine done 5 years ago, so much fun going through metal detectors at airports.
Hi Martin. Getting the knee done is not the be-all and end-all of your troubles albeit the immediate pain associated with the issue will go.
Soft tissue,tendons and nerve ending pain can and will likely be experienced for some years to follow.
Depending upon your overall stature and your inside leg measurement the restriction at the knee to bending can be an issue - maintaining the physio and the stretch exercises is essential. I can just manage a 92* bend at the knee but if I leave the bikes alone for a few weeks then the first 10 minutes can be uncomfortable but then it loosens up.
Albeit at pushing the door of 71yrs young I am still able to ride my bikes albeit with 140mm cranks and Stronglight rings (triple) instead of the 170mm cranks that are more the norm.
Also I ride Marcel Berthet Lyotard Platform Pedals and Toe Clips with straps as the SPD system would be a No No because of the need to twist the knee to disengage the foot and as that is the side that I come to a halt on it could result in a roadside circus show.
