I started with a cruiser bike and that is great for just around the neighborhood and is comfortable. I tried a mountain bike with slick tires and that was still too slow to keep up with a group of riders. I bought a womens specific Trec. It fit good, was light and I was able to ride with the group and have fun. 3 years later , I upgraded to an Orbea Dama Race. It is women specific and I am so much faster on it. If you think you are going to ride alot, spend the money, get a light weight road bike with a good fit. You will never regret it and overall you will spend less money because you won't have to continue to upgrade.