Thank you so much for the advice! I found a Giant Liv Invite in my size at a shop near me. I was also able to test a couple of the other bikes suggested. The Invite was EXACTLY what I was looking for, just the perfect bike for me!!! I rode it this morning and we came back and bought it a couple hours later. I've been cruising on it for the last couple hours. I'm in love.

I really appreciate the advice. There are around 9 bike shops within an hours drive (4 owned by the same company). Non of the salesmen recommended the Invite. In fact, it was the only one in town. So thanks to you ladies, I found my perfect bike!

Thanks again!


Quote Originally Posted by Muirenn View Post
I accidentally linked to the same bike twice. The first bike is this one:
http://www.nashbar.com/bikes/Product...2_579550_-1___

I can't get the geometry charts to come up. but it appears the less expensive option has a higher head tube so possibly shorter reach, meaning that would be better. But I'll load another browser and check to be certain.

Regarding men's versus women's, every bike's geometry is set up differently. You really have to look at the effective top tube, head tube height, stack, reach, and head tube angle for size comparison. It's pretty normal to change out bars, especially for women, you don't want to eliminate an otherwise good option by being hung up on whether it's a men's or women's bike.

Also, the Trek Lexa is available in size 50, and size 52, no size 51. So can't really tell from that what bike fit you the best. Do you have any other information on what bike fit you well? Same with the Raleigh.

FWIW, the Giant Invite 2 reminds me most of the Trek Lexa for frame materials and overall fit and probable feel. The steel CX are nice, but would be heavier, and aluminum cx bikes tend to be quite practical.