Basically I made another thread because I'm an attention hog. Kidding, I was just worried I would not get many responses on the other thread.

Today I went for a few test rides at 3 different shops.

LBS #1: 6 miles away. Sent me out on a Trek 2.1WSD 50cm. I guess it felt okay but I was really struggling with getting enough power. I accounted it to the fact that I felt like I was riding without training wheels for the first time and didn't think too much of it.

LBS #2: 15 miles away, much larger shop. Had basically the same selection of bikes, but I humored them anyway since they were highly adamant about the idea that I needed the 52cm in the same bike. That made SUCH a difference. I didn't think I would be able to feel it but I was just cruising around that parking lot. They just said they'll need to swap out the stem and I'll be good to go. This will be $1200.

LBS #3: 20 miles away. 08 Giant TCR W Small (On sale? but looking around $1000 is the selling price.. confused). This felt fine but I had a much smaller test ride area. The seat needs to be raised a lot, but otherwise good fit. Also tried a Specialized Dolce Triple 51cm and I could tell this just didn't feel right.. I felt cramped.

My issues/questions:

Do I call the closer bike shop (no real difference in service) and ask them to order me the 52cm compact even though I walked in being completely clueless or stick with the the one in the further store since they feel I'm better off on this bike? Is a 52cm really too big for someone 5'3"?

Is it worth it to save the $200 and go for the Giant? I can't really tell what would make it a better or worse bike. I think I like the Trek better, but I really couldn't describe to you why!


Eeeeek. This is getting stressful.