Quote Originally Posted by Regina
That's a pretty lofty goal to do on such an inexpensive bike. Does her budget include necessary accessories (helmet, flat repair kit, pump) or is that JUST for the bike? Bear in mind the saying "you get what you pay for," and bikes in that range will tend to be heavier with lower end components - quite a challenge for a long distance ride. Has she considered used (eBay, Craigslist, etc)?

However, this time of year, she may be able to get a decent "year end close out" from a larger shop. A friend of mine got a really nice flat bar road bike from Performance for $400 last Fall on which she successfully completed her first century.

She should really be prepared to swing a leg over some options and ride them.
Her stingy husband has bikes.. and don't worry; she won't go out the door without a helmet. He can fix her tires for her, at least at first.
I rode the STP on a cheap hybrid, not saying that just because i did, she can, but if she really gets into riding, it will validate her need for a better bike.
Hey, he was going to buy her a "comfort bike" before I jumped into the fray.
I'm thinking she's going to find some sales too.