You might do some online research first. Find out what bike shops are in your area. Then research the bikes they carry in your price range. Then go try those particular bikes and see which (if any) you like.
FWIW I live in Houston and you can literally drive for an hour and still be in Houston. It's unnerving, but eventually you do get used to it. Totally stressed me out the first couple of years I lived here.
Last edited by thekarens; 12-08-2013 at 02:46 PM.
2012 Jamis Quest Brooks B17 Blue
2012 Jamis Dakar XC Comp SI Ldy Gel
2013 Electra Verse