Quote Originally Posted by Cyclesome
I appreciate all the good advice. I am 5' 5 1/2 ", 144 lbs., average proportioned. I work out at the gym at least 3 times per week and consider myself to be in relatively good shape.

What specific bike would you recommend in the $1000 - $2000 range? LBS shops within my area carry Trek, Cannondale, Giant. Do I need need a bike designed specifically for women or is this just a fad or for the petite woman?

Any advice is appreciated.
Go take a look and have fun. Im 5'4 and neither of my road bikes are WSD. We are all so different in our body measurements regardless of height that you really need to try lots of bikes including WSD and see what fits your body best.

Enjoy and happy bike hunting.