Be advissed that while 26" wheels, tires, etc. are more generally available, high quality racing width tires are more readily available in 650c. So, if you are buying this as a go fast back, go with 650s. DebW on this board had a custom bike made, that was designed to work with either 650c or 26" wheels, and then she had two wheelsets made, a go fast 650c and a touring 26". Also, please undestand that smaller wheels are not slower. Your speed is dictated by how hard a gear you can push effeciently, so while you may need to be in a different gear to get the same gear ratio with a smaller wheel, as long as you select appropriate gearing you will not be slower. Its the opposite, you'll be slower on an ill fitting bite because you'll be uncomfortable and perhaps not in an effeceint position. Small wheels are appropriate and safe on small bikes (now that doesn't mean some gals here don't prefer 700c even on a small bike, but they accept toe clip overlap and often want to be able to use neutral racing support vehicles that only carry 700c wheels, but if you are looking for a 'starter bike' these things should not be big concerns for you.) I sometimes ride with a gal that rides a trek1000 and I have the impression that if it fits you its a great starter bike. Know less about the 1.2 but have heard gals here say they love it. Treks are generally solid bikes and 'good values' even at the lower end of the range.