Make sure it has a very comfortable seat, gel filled are ususally good.

Right, good thinking...will keep and eye out. Thanks Cinds.

i got one once for a present, i went on it once. i had a sore fanjita for a week. i sold it.
then end

Yes, I'm a bit worried about that but I don't really have a lot of other ideas, and she did say she was going to get one.

Gypsie just wants a rickshaw.

Can you get into MAKRO - wholesale place  - they are selling nice one's at knock down prices
Look for one with alll terrian tyres and proper suspension springs
If its just for road cycling then do not get a specialist one - but i'm sure they do one for ladies

I'm a card-carrier Renton so Macro's is no problemo. Is suspension better than hard tail for ladies? I wan't a light one with a small farme as she's only 5ft.2.

I bought my first mountain bike from Makro   These days I prefer Costco.

ohhh a rickshaw would be fantastic, i can see me being pulled round the Southampton streets doing the royal wave

I know your supposed to pedal them.

I see you more being carried around in a sedan chair being fanned by naked men.

eating grapes too yes, yes i could get used to that

if she aint into serious mountain bikin then just get any that looks pretty
and got good suspension

Starting point - what is the budget.  This seriously effects what you should be looking for.  Cheap full suspension is a waste of time.

What is it being used for?  She wanna look at taking it off road or as a commuter ride?

Does she work?  Look at the government "ride to work" scheme (or whatever it's called) - can save a lot of cash that way.

Think seriously about going second hand - ebay etc.  Be happy to point you in the right direction.

I would advise, very strongly, avoiding supermarket bikes.  False economy, poor quality and often very badly (and dangerously) put together.  I've seen some real shockers.  The 2010 bikes are appearing in the shops now and the 2009 models have some big discounts.  Big ones.  Go there if you don't want to go the second hand route.

Be happy to answer any questions.

Pxx

I'd advise buying a seat (called a 'saddle' in technical jargon).  It's obviously quite good fun without but not really in polite company.  HTH.

Profile has it spot on.
There are also many people who buy bikes and use 'em once or until they have a puncture. You can try putting a wanted notice in your local shop too.

I've ridden downhill without a seat on before - snapped and jammed post.

That leant proceedings a certain frisson

^ should be in the secseh injury thread.

Yes it should!!!