test ride, test ride, test ride, test ride Some of us need WSD, some of us do not. What is THE bike for one woman may not work for another with similar proportions...so test ride and test ride some more Many bikes feel good in the parking lot so see if they will allow you to take it for a longer ride.

"WSD" changes between manufacturers - for some there doesn't appear to be any real difference in the geometry, for others there are. Women traditionally have longer legs and a shorter reach than men (proportionally speaking).

As far as triples vs compact doubles...I will go with a triple every time. I like the smaller range between the gears and my knees/legs really appreciate that as well. We each have to decide ourselves on which works best for us and our preferred riding styles. I don't often use my small chain around home (central Indiana), but I certainly do in southern Indiana!

I get the "over-thinking" thing as I do that WAY too much - as those who were members when I joined as a very new cyclist who didn't have her first bike yet will remember Welcome to TE, and in case I didn't mention it... test ride, test ride, test ride