Quote Originally Posted by Kelly728 View Post
Thinking about it, I'm sure that the only reason I felt more comfortable on the larger bike is because I felt more upright. I'm not used to a road bike so not used to the position at all. At one point at LBS #2 I mentioned that I felt like I was reaching but of course Mr. Bike Dude assured me I wasn't (which I believed him because I don't know!). *Breathing*
This is not uncommon - it does take some time to get used to (and get flexible!) a road cycling position. If you are stretched out you won't be able to have a comfortable bend in your elbows when your hands are on the hoods of the bike. If you're arms are straight or elbows locked then the bike is too big. If you cannot stand and pedal without feeling like you are going to fall forward the bike is likely too large also.

I'd be skeptical of most bike dudes.... shops that really know how to fit are not so common. They tried to talk me into a 48cm the last time I bought a bike (I'm 5'0" long legs [28.5" inseam] short torso/arms). I knew I needed a 44.... and even that is a bit long for me. A 48 would have been really big.