Seeing how the orginal question was about frame size
My bride is 5'-2" and rides either a 15" or 17" frame. She prefers the drop frames. Her hybrid is a GT Slipstream with a 17" ladies frame, her MTB is a Schwinn Sidewinder with a 15" frame. She also has a Raleigh Colt ladies frame in 17". One thing that may make a difference is your build; short waisted, long legs? will take a slightly larger frame than someone that is longer torso, short legs. Best bet is to go and try out a bunch of bikes until you find one you feel comfortable on. We went thru about 7-8 different bikes before she found one she was comfortable on. I would suggest the hybrid for a start.
Aaron
