Is my LBS doing a good job?

[pooks]

BUT....if you FIRST test ride bikes that are eyeballed for a fit instead of test riding AFTER the professional fitting, what exactly are you looking for in the test ride?

Wouldn't it make more sense (and save time) to get the professional fit done first, then ONLY test ride the bikes that meet the numbers that have been derived from the fit?

I've test riddent four bikes so far, and I feel my body "learning" every time I get on a new one. I am feeling differences, and beginning to identify what they are. Which means I'm better able to describe them and analyze them when talking to the LBS guys. I think trying a bike that doesn't fit is just as educational as trying those that do, because how do you know what feels good if you've never felt bad?

[stpbound]

I've test riddent four bikes so far, and I feel my body "learning" every time I get on a new one. I am feeling differences, and beginning to identify what they are. Which means I'm better able to describe them and analyze them when talking to the LBS guys. I think trying a bike that doesn't fit is just as educational as trying those that do, because how do you know what feels good if you've never felt bad?

Good point, Pooks.

[salsabike]

Pooks is right. That does help you start figuring out what feels okay and what doesn't. Just feel free to be firm that you're not buying yet. Then get the fit, come back with your numbers, and start narrowing down the test ride bikes. It works! And it's a whole lot more fun when you feel like you're in control of your decisions rather than a bike saleman. It really helps to have the info.

Questions are good!