Newb Status? Now what?

[Bluetree]

Stop by Surf City (Costa Mesa/HB) or JAX(Fullerton/HB) before making a decision. Spec and Trek have a lot more options for women than many other brands and are a good starting point (those stores carry enough stock where you should be able to find something in your size to test). If you're down in the southern portion of OC, try Rock n'Road. If you are taller, then give Cannondales a try, too (they have longer top tubes so are not good for short people or those with short arms). Test as many bikes as you can before making a decision. Good luck.