First Bike, any thoughts?

[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!