Cultivating a new riding partner...

[Hartmame]

My riding partner for the last three years, another mom with similarly aged kids is moving away and I have a chance to cultivate a new riding partner or two or three. We did rides 30-50 miles long three days a week. I don't think I'll find one individual willing or able to do that again. I have a few possible candidates one needs more cultivating than the others but seems willing to try. I would need to help her find an appropriate bicycle. She is about 5' - tall. I'm looking for information on where to start to find a good entry level road or touring bicycle in a 43cm? Size. I ride a 46cm Surly which is clearly too big for her. I'm thinking a 13" hybrid/MTB with slick tires could also be an option? Anyone have any advice that could help?

[emily_in_nc]

A used Terry, if she could find one, would work. I am 5'2" and rode the 17.5" size. Depending on her inseam and body proportions, she'd likely need a 16" or the 17.5" at the top end. This is the road bike sizing, not sure about the Terry hybrids. They sometimes show up on ebay and are good bikes. There are other options, of course, but whatever she gets, make sure she can stand over the top tube and have an LBS size it for her, or she may be uncomfortable and unhappy. The key is to make it fun for a new cyclist.

There are other small bikes; this is just one idea. Good luck!

[ny biker]

Some bike shops near me are giving trade-in credit to customers who buy new bikes, then re-selling the traded in used bikes. So it might help to contact shops in your area. Good luck.

[pinsonp2]

Here's a 45 cm Felt in Brighton, MI:

http://annarbor.craigslist.org/bik/5277736070.html

Probably more than a beginner wants to spent, but illustrates they are out there if you are patient.

Good luck,
P2

[Irulan]

13" hybrid/MTB with slick tires

Hybrids aren't good at anything, IMO. They aren't very good on road or trail. MTBs have different gearing that road bikes, so for a partner to not be on a similarly geared bike might be a problem.

[Jolt]

Maybe a 42 cm LHT would fit her if your 46 is a little big.

[Hartmame]

I went shopping with her the other day at LBS and found a 2014 Jamis Ventura Sport in a 44. She didn't buy it then but was supposed to go back and test ride it. I'll let you know if she did or if she chickened out.