Quote Originally Posted by SadieKate View Post
If she has back and orthopedic issues, you will not be able to determine the proper fit and comfort without putting her on various bikes.

Don't be pennywise and pound foolish. Either sacrifice her comfort for a few bucks or go to a decent LBS. Hybrids aren't expensive enough to get much in the way of discounts unless you luck into just the right used bike. Even so, she has to hae the right fit which cannot be accomplished through the internet.
i befriended a bike fitter at the LBS. we got fitted for free. so we have an idea of the general geometry we need. now we're just looking for cheap. me...i spend thousands on bike stuff...i've probably spent $15K in the last 8 months. she thinks i'm the dumbest person on the planet for it and refuses to spend more than $350...i figure i can get higher quality by going used on such a low budget.