Good to have wheels that you feel good about Last fall I had a back wheel create one of the worst biking days of my life and ultimately culminated into my recent abdominal surgery.

Now, you have not really tested your resolve yet. You need to arrange another ride with your recent trail riding friends. After about 2 miles of riding, swap bikes with one of them. After that, if you are of the opinion that your new "little" wheels are sufficient, than good for you. You will have a complete diagnosis at that time. I don't say this to strike up the 26 vs 29 debate, but I am going on my 2nd 29er and I can tell you that when you try to go back and ride a 26, it feels like a toy.

Either way, I would recommend that Gina go ahead with her savings plan. What bad can come of it.