Orchid and others -- been away for awhile dealing with the devastating ice storm which hit Kentucky, Missouri and Arkansas on January 27. I was without power for 11 days. I was very fortunate because my insurance paid for everything. I still have two guys working to clean up my back yard. It is very sad to look at what it did to the woods in back of my home, but the home was not damaged and I am alive and well. Arkansas, along with the other states, has been declared a federal disaster area.

I agree with with all the comments Orchid has made about a "starter bike", the most important being the fit. If you are not happy with your bike when you are on it, you will not ride it very much. I started out with a hybrid and later upgraded to an ultra-light woman's road bike with 28 gears. IT FITS PERFECTLY AND IS A JOY TO RIDE. Take your time and you will find what you want.

Happy cycling.