Ok, I DID IT!!!!

I drove my butt all the way down to Tucson from Phoenix so I could see both the Cross Check and the Jamis Aurora side by side. The Aurora is one beautiful bike, for sure, but I decided to go with the Cross Check. I just liked the look at feel of it for my zipping around town purposes.

The 50cm was definitely a bit big, but not as big as I expected. And the guy at the bike shop was so nice, but I wanted to order from somewhere near to me. I've visited literally 20 shops around me, and just didn't fall in love with anyone, so I was agonizing and agonizing about what shop to order from.

Finally I just said screw it and went to the shop that's like a block from my house. And you know what? The guy was SO FREAKING NICE, and he took such good care of me and made me feel comfortable. And they even had the Nutcase helmet I wanted. And he gave me a sweet deal on switching out to the STI shifters.

We had a bit of a debate about the size, but he said we would switch it out it the size didn't work. SUCH a relief! (Plus the smallest size is back ordered until the end of September.)

All in all, a wonderful bike shop experience! Now, I need a freaking nap, it's been a loooong day.

So, the Surly Cross Check in blacktacular is on order and will be here on Friday. WHOOO HOOOO!!

Thanks to all for the help!! Pictures definitely forthcoming. I scored an Acorn handlebar bag before I even had decided on a bike, so that'll probably be here by then!!