Aly - I just had to post (am new to posting too!) ... I took the first step today, rode 5 different brands of bikes ..... and now my head is spinning. I was looking around here to see if anyone had any magical advice other than what everyone keeps telling me - which is ride a lot of bikes! That said I am like you in that the very helpful staff at the closest store really made a positive impact on my opinion and I really did enjoy riding their bikes. Anyway, good luck ... I figure I'll hit another couple of stores tomorrow and this weekend and hope that something clicks! ... but I wanted to say hello and that you are not alone in your confusion