Mountain Bike advice, please

[Ja Da Dee]

Well, I, like you am short, and started mountian biking a few years ago when my hubby suggested it. My first bike was a mid level HT Trek, it worked fine but I did get bounced around quite a bit especially as I started riding more advanced trails and rock gardens. So, I went on a search for a full suspension. I was lucky enough to find a used small Santa Cruz Juliana for a good price, and WOW, I'm totally in LOVE with my bike Totally In LOVE. I wish you were in Minn, I would let you give it a try.

I would suggest you post on the local mountain biking forum to see if any women have small bikes you can try. IMO, if you have a $1600 budget, the bikes are going to all be fairly ok, but each bike will have slightly different geometry. one might fit you better than another, and bike fit is the most important part (although you can make some adjustments). I also believe the number 2 important item is your componants. Get good componants, nothing worse when you are learning, are in a tricky spot and you can't shift. Who knows, you might find a screaming deal on a used bike like I did.

Good luck on your bike search, and HAVE FUN.

[FunSize]

Thanks everyone for the advice I'm still on the fence about forking over the money to pay for a bike. So, no bike yet. But everyone advice definitely has helped me decide for a full suspension. Now I just have to pull the trigger.

Ja da dee. I wish I was in MN too. I grew up there and miss it during the summer time!.... but not the winter time.

In a couple of weeks ill be driving up the east coast to mass. Along the way my bf and I decided it will be a tour of bike shops for me. Fun.