Hello,

It's me again. My quest for the perfect bike is almost over.

A bit of background. I am a 5" tall 40 something who, after a neck injury decided to change bikes. I have a specialized Myka sport (a mountain). I wanted something more upright and wanted to reach the ground from the saddle. I gave up on the reaching the ground thing when the electras were to big and after trying several, I tried a Trek shift today and it was instant love.

I found it unbelievable stable, which is great because I always struggle with the "wobbly" feeling and that, along with the low step, give me the confidence to not need to touch the ground.

My husband insists that I buy the 7 gear Shift 1. I am leaning towards the Shift 2. I know right now I am not confident and will be doing short commutes in my community, which is a pretty flat seaside neighborhood. I don't want to spend $100 more for something I won't use. But I don't want to regret it later and be held back by a bike that can't handle hills. There are other differences between the two (mainly the stem, which is adjustable in the Shift 2 and also a suspension post). What is your advice? I also have 2 school age kids who are at an age where they could start doing longer rides.

Any advice and suggestions are welcome. Also, I'm not in a rush to buy it. If anyone knows any "secret" about Trek sale patterns and if I can get a better price if I wait, it will be great to know.

Diana