Hi,

After 3 years of riding a really basic Giant Hybrid (CRS 4.0) I'm looking to upgrade, and very excited about it! I've been looking around for a few weeks and have test ridden a few bikes but I'm having trouble making a final decision so would love any help and advice.

In terms of my requirements - I want something quite a bit faster than my existing bike (I'm pretty much cycling in the top gear the whole time at the moment), but something that can still handle roads that are a bit rough in places. I use the bike 3-4 times a week to cycle to work in London (6 miles each way). I'm a female, but don't want anything super girly, and ideally also don't want anything too flashy looking as I don't want to be constantly worried about it getting stolen when I lock it up outside work. Naturally I'll have a good d-lock on it and insurance etc but still.

I've got a budget of between 400 and 650-ish pounds. I want as nice a bike as possible, but I don't want to get carried away as I use it for commuting, not racing or long days out on my bike. Having said that, I do love cycling and want something I'm going to be excited about. So it's all about the balance really.

I've shortlisted the following bikes and I would love any thoughts, input etc:

1. Marin Novato 2010 - 449 pounds, down from 650 - http://www.cyclesurgery.com/marin-no...-product/10420
2. Trek 7.3 WSD 2011 - 500 pounds - http://www.cyclesurgery.com/trek%207...-product/19775
3. Giant Dash 4 2011 - 500 pounds - http://www.cyclesurgery.com/giant-da...-product/20529
4. Vita Elite 2011 - 549 pounds - http://www.cyclesurgery.com/speciali...-product/20010
5. Ridgeback Element Womens 2011 - 569 - http://www.cyclesurgery.com/ridgebac...-product/20062
6. Ridgeback Flight 03 2010 - 649, down from 899 - http://www.cyclesurgery.com/ridgebac...cp-product/255
7. Vita Comp 2011 - 699 - http://www.cyclesurgery.com/speciali...-product/20011

I'd like to get a decent quality bike, that's good value for money and suitable for my needs. The bike I liked the look of the most isn't on the list - the Marin Olema 2010, as unfortunately they only had it in a size 17 inch frame which is apparently too small for me at 5'8" !

Thanks in advance for any advice.