Ok small budget. Here is the best way to get the right bike.

First step and most important is to go down to the local bike shop and work out what sized frame you will need. This will be a freebie. If the blokes at the shop run to form they will go out of their way for female cliental. Have a bit of a look around to see what they have available. Don’t tell them your budget just get a feel for the prices you will expect to pay. Enquire and look at the difference between component levels.

Next step is shopping time. Start scouring everywhere ebay, garage sales, classifieds, opportunity stores etc. Used bikes are all different but generally a bike fitted with better components is better value. it doesn’t take that long to get an idea of what is worn. Don’t rule out male bikes either most women can fit on a male bike with little trouble at all. A women specific design would be generally be a better choice but this severely limits choice.

Once you have found the right sized bike. Being female the next import thing is to make sure the saddle suits you. You might also need to replace the stem to suit forward reach.

Lastly a good all round service.

By far the easiest way to get a good ride is to pony up with the cash at the local bike shop. When you consider the cost of fuel registration and parking, even the dearest bikes start looking cheap.

If you are a bit strapped for cash then you really need to learn to D.I.Y. (Or con a friend into doing it for you.)

Have fun either way

**** Yes. You can put clipless pedals on. Most road bikes have a 9/16 spindle.

I recommend a used road bike.
As you progress get yourself a quality road bike like Cervelo, they can be ridden either your a female or male.

Sporty, Fast, Fun, Easy