Help me choose! New ladies hybrid...

[becks5109]

Had my bike stolen recently so time to treat myself to something new. This is my first post so bear with me...

I'm thinking a hybrid and am due to test ride a few this week but I'm not so good on the technical knowledge. My budget is £300 (£350 for the right bike) but they all seem so similar...

I'm looking at:
http://www.evanscycles.com/products/trek/t30-2012-womens-hybrid-bike-ec029920
or
http://www.evanscycles.com/products/jamis/commuter-2-step-over-2013-womens-hybrid-bike-ec041475
or
http://www.evanscycles.com/products/dawes/duchess-2012-womens-hybrid-bike-ec035297
or
http://www.evanscycles.com/products/dawes/cambridge-mixte-2013-womens-hybrid-bike-ec046541
or
http://www.evanscycles.com/products/pinnacle/californium-two-2013-womens-hybrid-bike-ec035863

I like the sit up and beg style handlebars, definitley want mudguards front and back and preferable a rear rack - obviously all of which could be added to other bikes fairly easy. I commute to work about 4 miles each direction on canal paths and roads and also take my bike when we go camping so cycle on forest tracks too but nothing too challenging!

Can anyone offer some advice.

 

[SquareDaff]

OK - there are sooo many variables. Suspension / no suspension? Ladies cross bar? Speed or comfort?
As a starter for 10 - how about this one?

http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=91773

One piece of advice I can give, don't restrict yourself to Evans - try a few local bike shops (LBS) too. You might pay a little more but you'll get better service and a bike that will suit your needs better. If spot something in Evans then have a look around on the web sites. You'll probably find it cheaper elsewhere. I think Evans do a price match. If not, then lots of online companies deliver for free. Just make sure you have your sizings correct and if you can try one at a shop before ordering online. If you find one at an LBS - pay the amount extra. You might find you'll get some freebies and it's worth it for the good will you'll get when it inevitably needs repairing/servicing.

 

[Chris Norton]

My wife got a trek fx 7.2 wsd with a stepthrough frame. Had an adjustable stem put on it and a fancy pair of chrome handlebars. Way more sit up and beg than my mans version of the same bike. Stock saddle has gone though. Replaced with a Selle Italia lady diva. She likes it. Bit more than your budget but worth a look if you can push it. One of the lower models may suit you.