Stella, the only fitting that has occured at any of the local bike shops has been me standing over bikes to see if I have clearance and then actually getting on the bike to see how it feels. All the employees have been male and seem to only be looking at the amount of money I want to spend...
The Buenos Aires is a 45 (which my boyfriend thinks is too small for me) but it was a really good deal (1700 on sale from nearly 2500) for the components, so the salesman was really pushing it. I think it was because that was the only size he had it in. I've tried other sizes in other bikes (47, 48and 49) which seem to also fit me so I'm hesitant because of the size even though I know its a really nice bike.
It's been hard coordinating schedules with my boyfriend to look for bikes (he just got into road biking last year and before that was an avid mountain biker) and it seems that when I go look alone, I don't get the same service...
What do I look for in a good fit? When I'm pedaling, how far should my knees come up-should they be even with my hips, or should they come up higher or lower? The guys have pretty much told me that if it feels comfortable, it fits. I haven't been impressed with anyone's service yet. I'm driving a bit further on Wednesday to look at some other bikes, and this guy has actually been pretty nice on the phone-he's staying open late for me (and I'm taking the BF with) so perhaps I'll find a bike I'll really love!
And the 1700 is just for the bike-I've got money set aside for the biking apparel and other accessories I still need.