hey there mickchick.

Thought I'd weigh in on the thread with what I have. I got a fuji cross comp- an '05 model for $660 (I think I got a pretty good price, i didn't want to spend more than my tax refund). It'll be mostly for commuting (when it stops raining) and for fun. I took it on a mtb trail once so far with no problems, even though it probably isn't intended for that purpose (I'd do it again). The frame on this bike is aluminum, which some wouldn't like. The newer model has a carbon fork. I don't know if that would help a lot or not. One comment I consistently read about this bike was that men found the handlebars too narrow. For me, they seem perfect. I also like that this bike is relatively light. I think the manufacturer weighs it in at between 22-23 lbs.

I don't know how many women specific cyclocross bikes are out there besides trek...but I encourage you to at least try a few non wsd cyclocross bikes just in case they work. The smallest the fuji comes in is 49cm.