Quote Originally Posted by laughlaugh18
So, long story short, I rode a 16" Raleigh Passage that seemed pretty good, and have been recommended to a Bianchi Boardwalk, which I haven't had a chance to try yet (the LBS didn't have it in stock in my size, but will be getting some soon).

Any opinions on either of these bikes?

Cathy
I rode the Boardwalk when I was searching for a bike. It was a top contender for my purchase - but I wound up buying a Specialized Sirrus. There was also a similarly priced Gary Fischer bike that I didn't actually ride. Just remember that there are a number of choices in that price range and you should try out as many as you can before you make a final decision.

My bike was purchased with the intent to be used as a commuter bike, so my biggest criteria was 700mm wheels. And, having never ridden a road bike, I wanted a flat bar. If I ride the bike for two years, I will have paid about $20 a month for it - that's less than my friends spend a week on gas!