I am looking to buy a bike this spring,but i'm unsure of what to look for in one? I will be riding it on the state trail's (paved). What can you suggest? The last time i was even on a bike i was in my 20's i'm 46, so it's been awhile. I walk these trail's every day weather permitting, but with the price of gas why drive to the trail when i can ride a bike to them. Just hope i have not forgot how to ride one.

Trek Hybrid's (for street or trail) are awesome and very good quality bikes. They can fit you, so your riding time will actually be comfortable, and they have women specific frames which is a big deal for comfort (shorter top bar, easier to reach handlebars, shorter stem so your neck won't hurt, etc).

I'm biased because my ex was a Trek regional manager, and I have a Trek road and a Trek mountain bike - but I've had lots of other bikes, and they truly are comfortable. That's my plug.

I love my Specialized Sirrus (also a hybrid). I'd definitely recommend a hybrid: you can ride them comfortably around town (unlike a road bike) but they are light and functional enough that you can take them out on nice long Sunday rides. The best of all possible worlds.

I also recommend the hybrid for its versatility.

If you are just starting out, I would also recommend buying a used bike instead of new. Last year I started cycling, and I wasn't sure how dedicated I would be so I found a used one on Craigslist for about $100. New bikes are VERY expensive.

Thank you all for the advice,it's all very useful information. I just told my dh a couple of night's ago that i was thinking that i should go with a used bike for now. I have been a walker for afew yr's( up to 8 mile's a day) & i still don't lose? So i thought to myself why not try a bike? This would be something that would be non jarring on my back, i think? and would be a good choice for some cardio.