Best bike for John OG to Lands End???

[Kerry WNAA]

Hi,

I am a very novice cyclist. i work for a charity and have signed up to cycle from John OGroats to lands end next August.

Im a 5'5" female and would love some advice from you clever lot! What sort of bike should i be looking at - a road bike or hybrid? I think im setting my budget at £500.
I have been browsing on here for a while and know a cab trust your advice.
Thanks in advance,

 

[vickster]

I think the Dawes bikes are meant to be very comfy for touring - I think I'd probably go for drops due to more positions for the hands, or at least a flat bar with bar ends...don't think many companies do drop bar touring bikes for women, you'd probably be ok with small gents model though (would need to change the saddle, maybe need narrower bars)

This got positive feedback in Cycling Active earlier in the year, not sure if will take rack and guards http://www.evanscycles.com/products/pinnacle/gabbro-womens-road-bike-ec027481