blueeyedgirl said:
I would really like to start biking. I am currently training for a marathon & I think it would be great cross-training, and a great way to get around town as well. I'm not sure what I want/need in a bike. I think it would be fun to go on trails, but I'd primarily be on roads. So should I be looking at hybrids?
Also of note, I am a 25 year old female, and I am 5ft tall and weigh under 100lbs. Do I need a children's bike?
Look into women's bikes (WSD). They are basically the same as their male counterparts, but smaller. The frame is shorter, the reach to the handlebars is shorter, the height is shorter, etc. You do not need a children's bike.
There are a lot of good bikes out there, but you did not mention what your budget was. Also, consider that the purchase of a bicycle is only the scratching the surface. You will need to purchase a helmet, and it's a good idea to get a few tools; at the very least a pair of tire levers and a portable air-pump. Then, there are the gloves, proper wear (meaning spandex), bicycle rack, etc.
Before asking about the spandex, I'll just say that when I started riding I was totally against it, but believe me, it makes a huge difference in COMFORT. There's no way in Hell I'll be seen in public wearing spandex, so I bought shorts with a spandex liner. Spandex doesn't have thick seams, so you won't suffer from chaffing in uncomfortable regions on long rides. After riding 10-15 miles, take my word for it, you'll be begging for spandex.
As a beginner, the bike shop itself is more important than the brand. Most bikes by most manufacturers are very comparable to each other in price ranges under $2000. Above $2000, that's where big differences are made between competing manufacturers. If you're looking into entry level bikes or bikes with some good components, the bike that fits the best is going to be the best. It won't matter whether you buy a GT, Giant, Cannondale, Specialized, etc.
One other thing...DO NOT BUY A "WALLY-WORLD SPECIAL!"
