Choosing my first bike (well since I was 11)

Hi everyone - after much wonderful advice, some internet research on all the different websites suggested by all of the wonderful ladies on this forum, and finally finding a great LBS - I put a deposit on a new 2006 GIANT OCR 1w. Though I am 5'6" - and the other 3 LBS's wanted to put me on a 54, this one particular LBS took my short reach into consideration and tried me on a GIANT (women's specific) Small - about a 50. Turned out that I still needed smaller, so the XS (about a 48) gave me the comfort the others didn't. The guy also spent a couple hours changing saddles, stems, handlebars, and even gave me a lesson on using the clipless pedals (which I was very scared about). That was all before I even agreed to make a purchase.
He introduced me to some Smarty (Crank Bros) MTB pedals, saying they would be easier to learn on than RB pedals - and isn't even going to charge me for the upgrade from the stock pedals the bike will come with (Shimano M-505's). It's about a $40 upgrade.
The bike is being shipped in a few days, and the guy also said he will work with me to find just the right saddle.
So....my point being....for any newbie out there who is nervous, or anxious (like I was) about getting their first bike, my best advice is to find a LBS who will listen to you, and who really understands. This guy in particular has a wife who is an avid rider, which probably gave him a different perspective.
That's all I needed.
I am so excited for my new bike to come in - and it's funny how, 2 months ago, I never would've thought I would spend this much $$ on a bike, and now I know that it's an investment in my own personal fitness, health, and emotional/mental well-being. Turns out $1100 is quite a bargain when you look at it that way. Cheaper than getting lipo on my thighs too. ;)
Thanks again everyone!!! I plan to make this forum a daily stop. There's still so much to learn.
Oh -lastly - my first pair of bike shorts are Shebeest. They have a leg gripper that is somewhere between that sticky silicone-like stuff, and nothing. Like a bunch of little rubber dots. Also, the material is soft - has a jersey-like feel, and the chamois is just right for getting used to. Price (about $50) was about as much as I could bare spending on my first pair as well.
Again - sorry for being long-winded, but I HAVE SO MUCH TO SAY!!!
lots of love!!:D
cheri

That is sooooo great!!

As for clipless, I got them the week after I got my bike, and except for the first fall, I really think they were a snap to learn! I"m happy you found a LBS that would listen & work with you!

Congrats & don't forget to post pics when you pic it up!!

Cheri, I am very happy for you. Happy that you found a shop that was able to take time and effort to help you. I got my new Dolce on ebay so I didn't have the advantage of going to a store and having such a good service, but then again i got it at a bargain price. Good luck with your bike and many joyful miles to ride! Please post pictures

Awesome!

I'm amazed the other shops would put you on a 54 when you really needed a 48. That's quite a difference. Shouldn't they have noticed that? *has never been to a LBS for bike fit*

And, yes! Post pictures!

Thanks!!!! I will certainly post pics when my new addition arrives.

Wow!! The guy that helped you sounds soooooo great! Congrats on your new baby & yes...please post pictures!

:cool:

-D

Congrats on choosing a bike. I've been looking for a bike myself. Got a 10 speed for my 14th birthday, but when I was 17, I got my driver's licence and left off biking.
So now I am 46, under 5'3", and over 200#, with diabetes, depression and chronic head and neck pain from a bulging cervical disc. Time for a change. I've been looking at bikes and finally landed on the Trek 7.2FX WSD. Tomorrow I'm off to the bike shop to place a deposit. I'll have my ride in 2 weeks--yay!
At first, I had just wanted a bike to run errands, but I want to use it to get some exercise as well. I'm even planning to get one of those indoor trainers that you put the bike on, so that when it's too hot, I can ride in the AC. I'm also planning to do some walking, so I can get my dog out, too.
I'm excited about the bike, and I can hardly wait to get started.
Again, congrats! Before long, we'll both be riding!
Susan