more info:

I'm just shy of 5' 7", and I weigh about 140#.

I'm reading other posts and I see that some recommend the Jamis bike. I did look at this first, but the shop didn't have the bike they recommended for me. I didn't want to spec. order something and be obligated to it, w/o testing it first.

So y'all think I should look at Jamis, too???

I just want to get a GOOD bike in my price range. One that I'll be satisfied with and won't be feeling after a few weeks, or even a yr., that I want to upgrade. Money is a serious issue for me. I have young children........ they get most of my money.