Inexpensive mountain bikes

[indysteel]

FWIW, the top tube on my mountain bikes, even when taking into consideration the differences in HTA are longer in the TT than my road/touring bikes.

I have the Myka in the non-disc version. It would be fine for your purposes unless you ride in wet conditions a lot. My only complaint with the componentry (I'd have to check to see if this year's model is the same is mine) is that it was VERY hard to shift between chainrings. Going from bigger to smaller was fine, but smaller to bigger was very hard.

[ridebikeme]

I would also recommend that you look at Cannondale. They have some great closeouts happening at the moment, both in the unise and womens models. FWIW, for 2013 many companies have dropped the number of 26" wheel mtn bikes that they will offer, so 2012 might simply give you more choices!

Good luck in your search!

[ridebikeme]

A suggestion that I would have would be to take a look at Cannondale. They're having some great sales right now, and you just might be able to buy a more expensive bike within your budget. They have unisex models and some WSD models on sale!

Good luck in your search!

[goldfinch]

A suggestion that I would have would be to take a look at Cannondale. They're having some great sales right now, and you just might be able to buy a more expensive bike within your budget. They have unisex models and some WSD models on sale!

Good luck in your search!

Too tall on the stand-over.

[TigerMom]

How about an XS Santa Cruz Juliana? I know that it is a full suspension and not a hardtail, but it should fit you. As for the price, you can always consider used or prior year models.

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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