Bike recommendations for a mature newbie female

[Surlygirl]

SadieKate, how flexible is she? Being short you might want to look at WSD bikes with sloping top tubes or a mixte frame. Riv makes one. Drop handlebars give you more hand options, but a flat bar might give her a more upright position so as not to strain her back. Lots to consider.

[Veronica]

The back thing was what made me think of a Riv. I would expect the non customs to take much less time. But being 3/4 of an inch above average height for a female I haven't paid too much attention to the range of sizes. Jo's Saluki looks mighty good though.


V.

[SadieKate]

I want a Riv - I'm drooling after the Glorius. However, for my friend . . . yes, a Riv would be wonderful but even a production frame is about the same cost as a Specialized Dolce.