Originally Posted by SaiKaiTai
But the question still being, is there any real reason for her not to consider a small -appropriately sized- men's bike? I'm not necessarily looking for recommendation (but they are gratefully accepted)
No reason not to consider anything. She should try, with the help of a good salesperson, a variety of different bikes so she can figure out what works for her. Theory is fine, but she'll be riding the bike in the real world.