Yes, I was wondering if anyone had similar stories of friends impulsively buying a bike, and recommendations in general for beginner cyclists. My friend ended up with a Schwinn from the big box store, so that's a decent quality entry bike at least. But she got no actual fitting or advice, and her test ride was apparently IN the store. The LBS tent sale where the group ride met up had some good deals, but she didn't want to spend money for something that may sit in her parents' garage for years. I hope to get her to where she enjoys riding, but it'll be touch and go at first.