Originally Posted by
snow_echo_NY
er this seems a little crazy to me...these are all good suggestions, but she really needs to know what will fit her body if she wants to use this to commute. fit above all else or else she's going to be in pain and will have to start again.
besides the size bike she'd use, trying it in person and seeing what bikes frames fit her body frame is probably her best bet.
example, i tried a cannondale and loved it. wanted a hybrid for my commute. but the spacing wasn't quite right i wasn't sitting in the saddle as i was supposed to among other things - things that could not be changed or adjusted on the bike. tried a specialized road bike, and it's much better suited for my frame.
in any case, best of luck to you both. curious how this turns out
I think you are exactly right. Hopefully she can ride this loaner for awhile and figure out what she wants/needs. It will fit her "okay" enough.
I realize one school of thought puts every utility/commuter on a Dutch style upright bike, but personally I think they are slow, heavy, and energy-sapping.