Buying my first road bike! Opinions needed please!

[goldfinch]

Thanks everyone for all the great responses! I am definitely going to try out some smaller bikes at the other shops this weekend. I did measure my inseam and it's 27.5 in/70 cm.

Seajay-thank you as well for your input! The LBS is smaller and my husband frequents the place-I believe the 49 cm was the smallest bike he had in stock and that's why I am not satisfied until I've road some others. And as for the comfort factor, I am definitely planning on getting some padded shorts! Are there any you would recommend?

Too big is my bet too.

I am 4'11" and ride a Trek Madone 43cm. My inseam is about what yours is. But inseam isn't everything, even as important is the reach, as Catrin mentioned. I agree with those who say look at a 44cm Specialized.

When I was shopping for a small road bike I posted here. There was quite a long thread discussing the options. You might find some valuable info there too: http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=44652