Advice please

[Becks]

I am a short girl. I need a light bike that will go on slightly rough surfaces eg tow paths but mainly with the kids on made up paths. I am fairly fit but my sport is running with visits to the gym.

I had a mountain bike which ran away with a nasty person. It had gripper shifts and weighed a ton - yuck. Equally I do not want a shopper because I am a mum!

Any Gems that I should look at?

I did go to the local bike shop which specialises in Dawes'. The saratoga looked nice but I have no clue.

Thanks in advance, Becks

p.s. What do we think of the Dawes Blowfish as a first pedal bike for a 4 year old graduating from a Like a Bike?

 

[Maz]

Hi/Welcome
Do you plan on also using this bike for road riding?

 

[Becks]

Both road and roughish surfaces but not down 45 degree angles with trees!

 

[summerdays]

Depending on exactly what height you are you probably need to look at a woman specific design (and a step through can be useful if the kid is on the back - well acording to my friend to usually kicks her child in the process of getting on the bike but otherwise I wouldn't bother).

Equally I've known friends who have had Blowfish and they seemed OK. Lots on here will recommend Islabikes but I've yet to buy one for my kids (though I'm waiting to see if there is a new bike coming out later this year). They are expensive though.

Have you a range of LBS's nearby to go and look at different bikes though it could be worth cultivating your Local one if you think they are any good for all those little things that they can help you with.

I've got a Saratoga - its not the lightest in the world - it's my back up bike now, but it was a good one to start with for me. I feel very up-right on it now, but I wouldn't of picked my current bike if I was shopping for it for the first time. (Does that make sense) It would have felt too stretched out.