Umm...this thread is kind of old, Cubey, not sure if it helps to comment here. 1) REI is a reputable place to buy a bike. Like any LBS, the luck you get there depends on who happens to work there. I've been a member of REI since 1987. They do not rip people off, they do not sell junk, and they stand by what they sell. 2) A Schwinn Le Tour is a quite respectable bike. If you don't like the old school racer handlebars, consider getting a different handlebar? You could maybe get a North Road style, or a trekking style. Search on Amazon with those two terms and see if something is appealing. Then go to any local reputable LBS and have them install. 3) Realize that many of the people on this forum are elitist, male, and not tuned in to the needs of women riders who are not going balls to the wall on every ride. Their commentary is interesting in an anthropological context, and more often than not helpful IF you have enough base knowledge to sift out what does not pertain to you. 4) A Schwinn Le Tour is often the choice of bike builders who snap them up by talking the original owner into believing they are old school crap, only to turn around an upgrade them with sexy spendy new components and putting them out on craigslist for $650 or more. If you like your Schwinn, consider having it upgraded and modernized to suit your handlebar preference. PM me if you so desire.