congratulations on your new lifestyle! The more knowledge you get before going to the shop, the better. Shops do not know everything (if anything) You need to research and find what works for you based on your needs not what the shop tells you. You will find all kinds of women here on the boards and we all have different riding styles. This is an awesome place to get started and everyone is very helpful. You may want to repost this in the general so more people see it, good luck!