Newbie help needed for choosing bike

[Denise147]

Hi: I am a 38 yr old, female -- 5'8" tall. Haven't had a bike since college & would like to get into it now.

Have approx. $500 to spend. Expect to mainly be on bike paths & the road, but may also hit the dirt every now & again. Am having a tough time finding a bike that will do both. Any recs?

I test rode the Trek 7.2 FX WSD. Liked it, but the LSB said it would not do well at all on dirt, gravel, etc.

Thanks so much for any advice!

[KnottedYet]

Kona Dew, $400, aluminum frame. http://www.konaworld.com/bikes/2k7/DEW/index.html
Kona Smoke, $350, steel frame. www.konaworld.com/bikes/2k7/SMOKE/index.html

We have one of each, and have ridden on road, trails, dirt, and grass.

Even took the Dew on a triathlon.

My LBS calls them "bombproof."

The Dew is faster and livelier, the Smoke is sturdier and more comfy (and easier on evil uphills).

I'm also 5'8", with about a 32 inch inseam. I ride a 56 cm Kona Dew and a 20 inch Kona Smoke.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Sounds like a "hybrid" type bike would suit your needs. You're lucky, 'cause there are many of them out there to choose from. Start test riding a few at some bike shops. Ride before you buy.