I agree entirely with mimitabby that it's a self-discovery process, and how you learn to find your bikes will be similar to how you like to learn about other things. Myself - I'm a very self-reliant learner, and so I enjoy trying to figure out things like bike fit by doing my own research -- including joining this great forum! -- while others would prefer to seek professional assistance from the get-go. I also have no hesitation about buying/selling used stuff in general, so it was natural for me to experiment with bikes by buying and selling online. Many others, of course, prefer going the local route so that they can test-ride as extensively as possible. Everyone's got their own style of learning, and shopping!

I also agree that it's very important to work with the LBS that makes you feel like a valued customer. I have a lot of highly reputable LBSs in my area, but I ended up going with a tiny shop that doesn't carry a lot of bikes, just because the owner treats me really well and is willing to work with the way I like to learn. Meaning, he's not offended if I bring him bikes and parts that I've researched and bought on my own - but he will not hesitate to offer his advice to me at the same time. It's a good dynamic where it feels like we're both learning from each other.