If you ride bikes or understand about it...

[Anonymous]

If you live in a condo, will you be taking it up and down stairs? If yes, I would go for the lightest one.

[Anonymous]

OP, here are a few things to look at when comparing bikes.

One is the weight of the bike, because the heavier it is the more combersome it will be to ride and pick up. Lower weight is one benefit you get as you go up in price, BTW.

Another is gear train components - how does the quality of the shifters, chain, etc. compare? The better these components are, the easier it will be to shift and ride up hills, and the more enjoyable the ride. Again, generally speaking, the more you pay the better the components, but sometimes different brands move to higher level components at different price points, so there may be a difference with similarly priced bikes. I don't happen to know the components on these bikes, though, so you'll have to ask at the bike store.

Third, fit is essential - you want to be comfortable and fit well on the bike so you don't develop back or knee problems. Is the bike store willing to put the time in to see how you look on the bike (generally, someone will hold the bike while you sit on it and someone else looks at how you fit on it - how much your knee bends shen you pedal down, etc.) Bikes often can be modified - the stem (what the handle bar sits on) can be extended up or down, or can be replaced with a longer one so you have more outward reach. Also think about the seat - at quick glance it looks like these bikes have padded seats, which actually isn't the most comfortable (you want a woman's specific seat that allows you to sit on your sit bones).

Finally, don't discount a mountain bike - they are really comfortable and sturdy.

[Anonymous]

I can't make a recommendation because there isn't enough information about components and such. FWIW, I have a trek hybrid, in addition to a road bike, and I've been very happy with the trek.

[Anonymous]

A front mounted bike carrier means that in an accident, the child hits the pavement and you hit the child.

Remember that bicycle accidents are not under your control. Cars, other cyclists, pedestrians, potholes, or a bit of gravel on a bike path can cause the best cyclists to take a spill. When that spill happens, you don't want the child to be your airbag.