I am a new rider and your post really resonated with me. Since I haven't been riding long, I don't know what my riding style is. Several people have recommended a road bike and said I should buy a "bike up" since I will grow as a rider and will eventually want one.

I have been endlessly researching so that I don't buy the wrong bike come Spring. I even bought a used bike on craigslist to try out (price was right - will most likely use on a trainer). After reading your post, I stopped to consider what I was really looking for and why I was leaning toward certain bikes. I think I have to stop researching and start riding!

As for your LBS dilemma, I have the same one and have concluded that it's ok to have 2 LBS's. Do you like the LBS that is 20 miles away even if they have a limited selection? Do you feel comfortable with them? Do they take care of you?

I have the big bike store LBS that has a huge selection but I feel uncomfortable when I'm there and their service is spotty. There is another LBS that is smaller and friendlier. Both carry different brand bikes. So far, I bought my folder at large LBS and will service it there (they carried the brand). But, I have gone to the small LBS to fix up the bike I bought on craigslist, tune up the kids bike, buy tire tubes etc.

Maybe you too can have 2 LBS's and go to them for different things. Just a thought.