It's not about 'girls' or 'boys' bikes. Simply, it needs to be designed appropriately for the person using it and the purpose it will be used (Fit for purpose). As ever, you can do worse than have a look at wikipedia as a start. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bicycle_frame You don't need to know all about bike design, but it helps if the person who built the bike does and, depending on your wifes body shape, one may suit her far better than another of the same 'frame size'. Having said that, most mass produced bikes are not too different, but race bikes are usually not suitable for general fitness use - someone should tell the lycra brigade! A lot of the so-called 'hybrid' bikes are reasonable road bikes for general use and in the price bracket. Also, having someone competent set the bike up will make a huge difference to long term usability. That link Beanz posted alludes to this - it may feel odd/difficult at first, but will be far better once you get used to a properly set up bike. Perhaps you know someone nearby with experience in bikes??? :rofl: Above advice is worth what you paid for it, perhaps more if you're lucky. My cycling experience is somewhat out of date...
