againstmel

Hi, I'd like to buy a new bike for my wife. Our requirements are:

- Internal Geared Hub (3 speed or more)
- Step Through Frame
- Lower weight. I bought her a Trek Lime several years ago and she complained it was too heavy (though I think it was just that the automatic shifter was not well engineered).
- I'd like to keep the price sub-$1000 (but if it gets her riding, I'd spend more...)
- Style is a huge plus. She liked the look of her Trek Lime.

I saw in another thread someone mentioned Public Bikes, which was a very good suggestion. Other options are helpful, so thanks inadvance.

MickeyMaguire

Internal-geared hubs are harder to maintain and repair than a rear derailleur. Sooner or later, you'll have to service it and when you do, if you are not mechanically inclined, it means a trip to the local bike mechanic. You also have a lot fewer options and the number of gears at your disposal is much fewer. Having said that, the Schwinn Slicker is a nice alternative... it has a 9-speed rear (Shimano 105), a single chainring on the front. The price: $499 --a good bike at that price range.