First Bike, any thoughts?

[lacyliz]

Welcome to the forum! It's fantastic - everyone here is so helpful.

I was in your situation about a year ago- now I'm on my 3-rd bike and I'm beyond hooked.

I agree with all the other commments about fit - it's important. I would definitely check out Giant's OCR3 for Women- They always get great marks from Bicycling Mag and others - and at 650.00 new, it's a really good price for the bike and components - comes with a Shimano triple (12-27 cassette good for climbing hills), women specific geometry, etc. They tend to be pretty comfy - the tires are standards at 700x26 - which are substantial for a road bike (that might be good for you if you every ride on dirt roads or are used to a rougher road - it also helps with beginning stability).

I also highly recommend Bicycling Mag's Book- New Cycling Handbook- the first chapter is about types of bikes/riding, has a very understandable chapter on fit and things you need to know about bikes and riding. I bought it when I first got in to cycling and it has been extremely helpful. Took some of the mystery out of shopping for a bike - and helped me deal with Bike Shops. Though, I have to say, my LBS guys are great- they really help me and didn't treat me like a second class citizen when I was brand new. I know you'll find a shop or a person who will help without the tude.

Let us know how you do- Good Luck- No joy like being out on the road...

[logdiva32]

I am new to road riding also, about 9 months now. The thing I've learned is measurements and recommendations are great, but take what is comfortable for you. I am riding a 50cm Novara carema pro '06, and I love it. LBS (Local Bike Shop) says it is too big. But I don't, they are all men. I have long legs 31" inseam and need the longer frame, but have a short torso, so had to go WSD (women specific design). So take your time.
BTW: I am military,also, yes my paycheck is meeger, LOL.

[logdiva32]

man, spin everyday. One tough chica..

[Brandi]

My first REAL bike ended up being my first bike for only 2 years. I didn't get fitted properly and had a lot of problems. Aches and pains but I loved it so Much I indured the pains. My husband wanted to build he's first bike and decided I earned it. I can"t believe the difference. I should have really done my homework. And i would test drive !
Your husbands bike might be wonderful for him but there might be something even more wonderful for you.

[Jenn]

My only other question was regarding my size, now that you mention your long legs! I'm not a small woman, I'm battling a thyroid problem that my endocrinologist is trying to figure out and no matter how hard or how much I work out I cannot lose any weight. I spin everyday in hopes it will do something and the scale has not budged (it's soo aggrivating) Anybody else would have dropped a ton of weight by now. Having my daughter ruined my body!
Anyway...sorry to get off the subject. Because of this I'm about 5'7" and am a size 14, not chubby though, I'm just thick. Anyway, because I'm larger I don't know if a man's bike is going to fit me better?

[nic840]

It all depends on the models. When I went to the LBS to testride I automatically felt too compact on the women's bikes. I am 5'5", 160 athletic build, size 10/12. As soon as I got on the men's bike it just felt right. I think I liked the stretched out postition a little more.
A girlfriend of mine is the same height and I always thought we were pretty similar in proportion...got on her bike a Specialized Ruby and it was amazing how much different we were. I felt so squished up and short. Her frame size was smaller because her legs are shorter...who would of guessed just looking at us. (my friend and I both have two kids under 3...so that baby fat is still there too...Ugh!)
She loves her bike and I love mine... It all depends on preference and positioning. THis is why test riding is sooooo important!!!!
I ended up purchasing a '06 Trek 2100 on sale and I love it.

Good luck with the Thyroid issues... keep on that endocrinologist. I had pituitary issues in college, I understand the hormone battles!