Quote Originally Posted by liza View Post
Edit: Oh, I just reread your post and realized you are looking at Ebay/Craigslist... Hmmm... it still might not be a terrible idea to go to a shop and talk to them a bit.
It's not a terrible idea, it's a great idea!

Many shops carry used bikes, my LBS will re-sell bikes for select clients on consignment (he has a sweet custom painted Rodriguez unless it's been snapped up), they sell customer returns and exchanges, last years model (does it really matter if it was last year? let's snap those up!) they will sell from a rental fleet if they rent etc.

Is there a Bikeswap in your area? Check that for great deals often again from ..... drumroll .... your LBS.

In this economy we need to support our LBS. There are some great deals out there and you get all the service of the shop.