Originally Posted by
valygrl
Hey chasm... Bikes are an awkward present. If the person is really a cyclist they want to pick their own bike. If they are not, it's a guilt trip. If the bike doesn't fit it's a burden.
A gift certificate and offer to shop together might be better.
I'm speaking as the recipient, long ago, of a too big mountain bike.
Yes, I understand. I know the size pretty exactly, the worst that could happen there is a few mm on or off the stem. And this would be a substantial step up from her current ride, so I'm not afraid of her looking at it and thinking "but I really wanted a Venge" or something like that.
So while I might give exactly the same advice as you have, all things considered I feel pretty safe in risking it. But thanks, I appreciate the sentiment.