Earthgirl, when I was 5'4 and 236 pounds, I got my '80's era Trek 730 out of storage and started riding it. It's a PERFECT fit for me, and it's a 17" frame. I have the seat up 4-5 inches out of the tube, not jammed all the way down.

That was a few years ago and I did succumb to the temptation to buy a different "comfort bike" that I've never gotten along real well with. It's an okay bike, and DH loves his, but I later bought a road bike and then got the Trek out again for grocery shopping and the like.

This year I've made some changes to the old bike -- put on lighter tires, and a new rack and panniers for carrying stuff. It's a fun little bike to ride -- I think you'll like it!!!

Karen in Boise