Univega Via de Oro (1998)

Pros: Lightweight aluminum design & frame angles are right for a woman's body. 
Cons: The plastic pedels feel cheap & made me wary when climbing up hills. 

I've had this bicycle for several years and I just love this bike.  It is great touring bike for commuting or just for leasurely sporting activities.  It fits my body so well, easy to handle (I don't feel wobbily on it), and has a great breaking system which makes this novice feel in control of her bike.  This is especially important when I have used it to commute to work.  They say that the Dutch have a fantastic touring bicycle which is easy to ride but I'd place my little, blue Univega against the Dutch touring version, any day.  It is that good of a ride.