wintersfire

I know there's a lot of first/new bike posts, but I'm honestly a bit lost, and would be grateful for any individualized advice.

I'm wanted to buy a new road bike mainly to commute to school and around for the occasional errands (up to 10-15). I'd like to sign up for a few races a year if I can find the time and also ride for fun on occasions.

I'm currently looking at the Trek Lexa C Trek Lexa C - Women's - Bicycles, Inc Hurst Fort Worth Arlington Southlake, Texas
I love the mostly all silver look. Is it a good price and bike for me? What size would you recommend? I'm 5'5 (maybe 5'4) with an inseam of 30.5
The measuring charts I've seen online say 53 would be good for me, but some posts I've read say that would be too big and a 50-51. Why do the online sources recommend a larger bike and here, a smaller one?

Any other bike recommendations? My budget was <$400-500, but after all I've read, I've decided I will increase it to <$800 for the right one.

tangerineowl

The lady below is 5'4"; inseam 31" (with cycling shoes on). Was asking about Lexa sizes and ended up purchasing one...

https://www.bikeforums.net/fitting-yo...e-problem.html

wintersfire

Thank you!