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Ana, I have to echo the posts about getting a proper fit, especially with a fitter who has access to a Fitcycle.
Like I said earlier, I'm also 5-1 and needed sub-170 cranks. I always thought I needed 165s but when I was thoroughly measured, it turns out I needed a 167.5 because of the length of my femurs. Since I was making a substantial investment at the time (Red cranks + ceramic BBs) I wanted to make sure -- and I'm glad I did!
Also, I suggest you hook up with some local cycling clubs. Their members can be a treasure trove of good information (finding the most reputable shops/mechanic, how to get parts in your neck of the woods, borrowing/trading components, etc). Most have a forum or email list that is handy to get information out. My club is a tremendous support group for me and have always responded if I wanted to try out a new wheelset, saddle or stem. No need to go it alone when working on a bike fit!
Ana
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2009 Lynskey R230
Trek Mountain Track 850
I can so relate to this. I have been riding for almost three years now, I have a reasonably nice bike and some clothes *I* think are cute, and I"m pretty fit. But I'm still chicken to show up to one of the 2-3 club rides around where I live. I'm pretty sure I'd be able to keep up with at least the B group, but I'm totally afraid I will either be not one of the cool kids (wearing something just a little too fred, seatbag too big, something stupid like that), or my group riding skills will be judged not up to snuff (of course, that's a big catch-22 because you can't really get group riding skills without doing some group riding)...
Sigh...
It seems so much like high school.
Maybe if we try it we'll find that people are more generous and mature than we expect .