Don't be shy on those test-rides. You are right...you are about to drop a lot of cash and need to make an informed decision.

I like customers who ask a lot of questions and who take the bike out for at least a good 20 or 30 minutes. If something is "wrong" with the bike (poor shifting, saddle height wrong etc) I want to know about it so that we can fix it.

As mentioned, all road bikes are going to feel slightly odd after riding hybrids. Keep test-riding and be sure to run through the gears. Ride in the drops, on the hoods and on the flats. Take a few corners at speed. Find a hill or rise and do some standing.

A decent salesperson should either put you on the bike on a trainer or come outside and have you ride around a bit to get an idea about the fit.

Good luck and have fun shopppping !