42 and new to cycling

[thekarens]

My inseam is 29. I'll go back to the shop so I can write down the specific name of the bikes I tried.

And thanks for the welcome and help! If nothing else I can read and learn from this website and then next year when I have the cash I can get a bike at the lbs.

[thekarens]

The two shops I went to carry Cannondale, Trek and Specialized. I'll have to ask about layaway. That would be a good option. I know it's not about being pretty, but that bike you linked to is very pretty

I just looked up dealers for Jamis bikes and there's another lbs not too far from where I live so I think I'm going to check them out. Thanks for the suggestion!

[DonnaS]

You might ask the different LBSs what they have for financing. My Specialized dealer was offering a 6 month no interest plan last year.

[Catrin]

You might ask the different LBSs what they have for financing. My Specialized dealer was offering a 6 month no interest plan last year.

This, many LBS do offer this although they may not strongly advertise it. Many also allow for layaway as well - that is how I got my custom bike in early 2011. Layaway is nice

[thekarens]

Thank you everyone for the suggestions! I'm going to look into all of them

Houston has a boatload of LBS. If I can I'd rather use one close to my side of town, but if the right deal comes along I can and will travel.

[Owlie]

Welcome to TE!

[hebe]

I think that Jamis is beautiful!

I can completely recommend the Specialized Vita, which is on the faster end of the hybrid spectrum. I'm not sure what the pricing is in dollars however. I learned to ride at 43 on a comfort bike, moved to a Vita and was just blown away by how much it changed and inspired my riding. It's not a road bike, but as Muirenn said will help you find your legs, and then when you do want a road bike as well you can just pop a rack and fenders onto the Vita and have a great utility bike too The Specialized Dolce might be an option too but I'm afraid I have no ideal on pricing.

Welcome to TE and congratulations on your weight-loss so far!

[TigerMom]

Keep it up! 44pounds lost...Wow!!!
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2012 Specialized Amira Elite, upgraded carbon handle bars, Jett saddle 143mm switched to 145mm 2012 Selle Italia Max SLR Gel Flow saddle

2011 Specialized Ariel Sport,suspension post,Serfas Rx Women's Microfiber saddle

[Hi Ho Silver]

I noticed that you are in Houston. When I lived there, the premier bike shop was Dan Boone Cycles down in the city. They might actually have some nice used bikes for sale there. If so, it would be worth considering them - they could help fit you and, hopefully, tune up whatever bike you choose.