Help needed with buying bike!!

caitlin

Hi all! I'm new to this site and need some help with deciding what bike to purchase. I already bought a Marin San Anselmo www.marinbikes.com a couple of days ago but after reading through info on the net, think I may have made the wrong decision! I'm wanting a bike mainly for commuting, but thought I may like to do some mountain biking and touring (neither of which I've done before). The Marin cost me $880 and I don't want to spend more than this. Some people have said it's best to get two bikes if you want to go mountain biking, but I thought if you're touring, you'd want to mountain bike as well. I know road bikes don't have suspension and are a rough ride, which aren't very comfortable long distance. They also have a rather bent over position, which I've heard Isn't as comfortable long distance. Mountain bikes can be good for commuting, touring and mountain biking, but aren't as good on the road. I've also heard getting a mountain bike 2nd hand or renting one is a good idea. Please help!! I'm so confused!! By the way, I'm a 5"2 female.

Txcyn

Hey, I purchased a giant cypress for touring in 2003. I then started organized road rides and purchased a trek 1000C. I am 5'1. The trek book said it fit 28 stand over. It was to big. I now have a 2100WSD. I you are interested in road riding the Comfort bikes are good because the have the adjustable handlebar stem. You can sit upright. The 1000C now comes in a smaller size and wsd. Check it out.