Lyte, I disagree that Toronto Sucks at Cycling. I have cycling in this city for over 28 years and it just keeps getting better and better. There are lots of bike routes, MUP and side streets to get you where every you want to go. Pick up a Toronto cycling map and have a look. I can understand that you want to ride on the sidewalk but this will eventually get you a ticket, especially during the the blitzes they have. Expect one in the next two weeks when school starts. They go after the cyclists not the drivers so be prepared. I cycle all year round and typically have very few problems.

Your first order of business is looking for the right size. Go to a few bike shops and get a general feeling of what would work for you. Then go from there.

I am a strong advocate of buying a new bike especially your first rather than second hand. The Trek 7.3 is a five year old bike, and I think even if it fits, the price is too high. Size is an issue, it is too big for someone who is 5' 4". At your height a hybrid would usually be 15 inches, but this can vary from bike to bike, just ballpark.

The Aquilla is the best price and the bike I would buy if it isn't stolen. No paperwork on a brand new bike? You could always phone Racer Sportif and ask them about that bike, they will remember. For the record, no one sells that bike but Racer Sportif. They have that brand manufactured for them so you are not going to see it anywhere else. That bike could be ridden all winter no problem, just put on studded tires and you would be ready to go. Even thought they are the only ones that sell that brand, it really is a good bike. I have never seen an Aquilla that people hated or was a piece of crap. So I wouldn't worry about that.

I like your third choice, as it new, you will get free tune-ups and they will fit you properly at the Trek Store. It still comes with Shimano derailleurs etc, nothing is really junk here.

A few bike stores that I think you might want to look at and are quite helpful: My number one choice is Urbane Cycles on John Street, near Much Music. It is a co-op run store and they are very nice people and they will help you out. One thing I like is they hire lots of women in their shop, so it represents the general population. They concentrate on commuter bikes and affordable bikes. Not one carbon bike racing bike will be found there. Second Bikes on Wheels on Augusta in Kensington Market. Third would be the Trek store, tied with Cyclepath. Bateman's would be another I would look at on Bathurst.

Buying used is a gamble. But if you know your size and what bikes are good, then it can be an alternative.

After you get the bike buy the best lock and make sure it is an Abus or Kryptonite or you can kiss your bike goodbye. Learn to lock your bike properly, so it stays yours.

Good luck with what ever you decide. I love Toronto, and I love cycling in it and I really like Cycle Toronto, they are doing a lot to make the city a better place for cyclists.