help for a beginner please!

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I am very new to cycling, I have been a horseback rider for years but realize that is a bit different!
My husband has done many rides and is looking to get back into shape to go on Ragbrai. I want to train with him, but certainly not as hard as he will at first. We have looked a a few bikes, I am leaning towards the Giant OSR3w. I will ride with him on the weekends, then run on the treadmill during the week while he rides. (we have a small child and one of us must be home while she is sleeping, obviously)
I am only 5'1 and pretty overweight right now from pregnancy, I am looking to get back into shape and improve my overall health.
Any suggestions on bikes, gear etc?? I am also looking for a nice pair of capri tights. (not sure if should get padded or not) Thanks for any advice you can offer!

It might help if I am more specific...I am looking at an 2006 Giant OCR3w, Specialized Dolce and am also going to try a couple performance Hybrids. Im not sure if I will like the feel of the road bike, so keeping options open. Does anyone have any comments on any of these bikes??
I really dont want to get something that will discourage me from riding, so Im trying to be super choosy about what I get.

I know nothing about the bikes you are looking at, but thought I might offer the following suggestion ..... you might want to look at bikes with 650c wheels, which would probably be a better fit for someone of your height.

Check out this thread (http://www.cyclingforums.com/t386444.html) she is 5 ft, so some of the suggestions made there might be useful for you.

I learned a lot in my first six months of cycling,And that all came from personal trial and error. Learning AND UNDERSTANDING the uses and advantages of the different parts availible,for instance 7-8-9 speed/the diffrent qualities of shifters wheels etc benifits and drawbacks of lighter components etc.
So my advice is borrow a bike or get a reasnablly priced bike ONE YOU CAN SELL AGAIN TO UPGRADE.,get out there and ride.This will show you what you want out of biking mtb,road,recreational whatever.
then look for a bike to fit your choosen disapline.