Bike Buying Frustration

[Wahine]

I guess the reason I keep thinking I need to try out a bike before I buy it is because that's the advice I've been hearing here at TE for the last 2 years. Everyone says the most important thing is the fit. If a bike fits you well and you can ride it comfortably, then that's the bike you should buy, regardless of whether it's a Trek or a Specialized or whatever.

It is always best to ride a bike first if you can. That is what works. But what you're telling us is that it's not possible for the most part where you are. So the next best option is to get measured up, decide on your frame material and components and start searching for a frame with the best possible geometry for you - online, check out the specs on geometry. Then once you find it, read the reviews, see if you can locate one to try and if you can't... you might have to take a leap of faith.

I cheked online and I haven't found someone who does a ground up fit in Vancouver yet.

BTW - I did a bike fit this afternoon for someone, I determined that she needed less reach. Out of curiosity we put her numbers into the wrench science to see what it came up with and it predicted her reach almost exactly at what I thought it should be based on my observations of her on her bike. So I would again encourage you to put your numbers into wrench science, it will at least allow you to narrow down your search.