[carolineintx]

I was thinking about getting a new bike...anyone who rides a bike have any advice about how much I should be spending, what type of bike I should look for (I plan to ride about 10-20 miles at a time, some small hills but mostly level, and about 95% of the area I'd be using is paved, the rest is gravel), what brands are the best value? I don't know if I should be limiting myself to bikes that are specifically for women or if it even matters? I'd like to be able to walk into one of the local bike shops and at least have some idea of how much money I should be spending and what features I should be looking for.

[nelie]

Well if you are doing gravel, then I'd look at a hybrid bike. Road bikes are awesome for distance but are really meant for smooth pavement. I'd expect to spend $400+ for a decent hybrid bike. For a road bike, I'd expect to pay a bit more than that.

Also, a bike shop can fit you and at 5'7, there would seem to be many unisex bikes that might work for you. I'd try the various bikes and see what works for you.

[3fcuser1058250]

Originally Posted by nelie

Well if you are doing gravel, then I'd look at a hybrid bike. Road bikes are awesome for distance but are really meant for smooth pavement. I'd expect to spend $400+ for a decent hybrid bike. For a road bike, I'd expect to pay a bit more than that.

Also, a bike shop can fit you and at 5'7, there would seem to be many unisex bikes that might work for you. I'd try the various bikes and see what works for you.

Exactly what she said ... I have the Gary Fisher Mendota Fast City Bike and love it, it's fast but sturdy but not heavy.... But you have to try them all out to see what you need... Good luck, let us know what you decide...

[carolineintx]

thanks guys, I'm going to have to save up a little bit, at least now I have a good starting point when I hit the store!