switchbacks

Hey folks. I'd like some feedback comparing two bikes I'm considering. Disclaimer: I can't ride either one of these at the LBS right now and they're both at the upper limit of my budget. None of my LBS's have anything similar I can afford. I'm 5' tall and I'm by no means a "serious" cyclist but I don't want to buy something I won't get at least 5 years out of if not more. I live on a valley floor in Mt with mostly flat terrain but some moderate hills. I want an English vintage style city bike (my side business is selling vintage clothing and I like to look the part that has a step-through frame and at least three gears. I want to be able to transport things like groceries, etc. but not haul major cargo. Also, I had my meniscus removed in my right knee in December of this year so this bike is part of my rehab plan.

I'm holding my breath waiting for my lbs call me back and tell me if they can get me one of these later on in the spring: https://www.manhattancruisers.com/13_green_5_m_green.htm. But right now they're not available and this LBS doesn't have the greatest customer service anyway. The only reason this peaked my interest is because it's aluminum and comes in a 14" frame since I'm only 5' tall (28.5 inseam). But I'm leaning towards ordering one of these: https://www.commuterbikestore.com/biria-citi-ez6-ladiesbike.html because they're cheaper and already come with extras, but the smallest size frame is 17" and I can't test drive it. Any thoughts? I looked into the bikedirect bikes but didn't see anything aesthetics-wise that I liked more that the Biria citibike, but maybe I'm missing something there. Any input would be appreciated. Thanks friends!

bikemig 

You're right to be concerned about the frame size. That's one of the most important criteria in picking out a bike. Frankly, I'd talk to your LBS (or find a new one if this one is not responsive), have them size you and have them help you pick out a bike.

switchbacks

I wish I could. Unfortunately my selection is limited here in a small town and I can't afford to spend what it costs on a bike shop bike. I realize that might mean I won't have as nice a bike as some. That's just the way it goes. I am just hoping for some help picking the lesser of two wheeled evils

btw that should say 2013 Manhattan cruiser in the title

Artkansas 

I like the Citi better, it seems better equipped, from my perspective anyway. But, a lot of what you need in a bike depends on where you are riding and what you are doing. I'm in a hilly area doing utility riding mostly, groceries and the like, so that's my bias.

As far as frame sizes, I suggest you contact one of the administrators and they will let you into the women's forum. The women there may have a better idea of whether the frames will fit you.

And asking your question in another forum like general discussion will get you better results. Alt-bike is devoted to tall bikes, choppers and other kinds of strange bikes and is one of the lesser-visited forums. General discussion has a lot more traffic.