Originally Posted by
spdracr39
It also depends on the type of body you have. If your upper torso is longer than average a larger size might be in order for reach purposes. Longer and shorter stems can affect handling in extreme changes. I personally never buy a bike that any one adjustment starts out at the end of the range because it leaves no room for error. The 15" will be the proper choice. have them order it for you and don't ask for the opinion of that particular employee again.
Well as I said in the OP it's for my wife. And she has the pretty typical female short torso / long legs build. But she also wants a bit more aggressive riding style so a hybrid non-step-through will probably fit the bill. The 15" is likely what we're going to go with.