As for the bike, any good bike shop, or a sporting goods section of REI, can help you determine the right size, and also the right type of bike. They should ask you about what kind of riding you expect to do, as well as measure you and help with adjusting the seat and handle bars to fit you. Try out different styles/models of bikes till you're sure what you want. It's way to expensive an investment to not get exactly what you want/need. Be sure to do more than ride around the parking lot, unless of course all you intend to do is ride on a paved road or bike trail.