I was in your shoes seven years ago. I wanted to get into it, but was clueless about where to start. I ended up going to several bike shops to get the right size, but I knew I didn't want to spend the bucks for a new bike. Once I tried riding in the parking lots, figuring out the right frame size, I could zero in on used bikes. I think I paid around $400 for a full suspension mountain bike, which I've had for seven years now. It is a men's bike but they really didn't have women's designs back then. Eventually, I wanted more of a commuter bike so I ended up buying a used road bike (Specialized Allez) which is a women's specific design.

Now that I have had time to evaluate the two bikes, I am ready for my third. I love my road bike for certain rides, but it does not serve me well on my commute to work since I have a portion I need to ride on a dirt trail. The technology on my mountain bike is dated, and I am ready for a new one.

My point is that you will get your first bike to get you into the groove, and over the years (or months for some riders) you will learn and discover what it is you really want. Good luck!