Finding Your Riding Style?

[jyyanks]

I am a new rider and your post really resonated with me. Since I haven't been riding long, I don't know what my riding style is. Several people have recommended a road bike and said I should buy a "bike up" since I will grow as a rider and will eventually want one.

I have been endlessly researching so that I don't buy the wrong bike come Spring. I even bought a used bike on craigslist to try out (price was right - will most likely use on a trainer). After reading your post, I stopped to consider what I was really looking for and why I was leaning toward certain bikes. I think I have to stop researching and start riding!

As for your LBS dilemma, I have the same one and have concluded that it's ok to have 2 LBS's. Do you like the LBS that is 20 miles away even if they have a limited selection? Do you feel comfortable with them? Do they take care of you?

I have the big bike store LBS that has a huge selection but I feel uncomfortable when I'm there and their service is spotty. There is another LBS that is smaller and friendlier. Both carry different brand bikes. So far, I bought my folder at large LBS and will service it there (they carried the brand). But, I have gone to the small LBS to fix up the bike I bought on craigslist, tune up the kids bike, buy tire tubes etc.

Maybe you too can have 2 LBS's and go to them for different things. Just a thought.

[KnottedYet]

I have 3 LBSs. I go to each on a fairly regular basis. Only one of my bikes (currently) was purchased at one of them. Nobody minds if you buy bikes at other shops and show up at theirs for repairs or parts.

They might mind if you stay for hours and try out all their stuff and figure out what you need, and then have someone else order it. Or order it online.

I'd buy the bike from the shop that was knowledgable, organized, friendly, and spent their time with you. At this point they know you and how you like to ride and even have a good idea of sizing for you. It's worth the hour drive to go to a shop that knows these things.

And if you have to wait a few days to try the 17, not a problem. This sounds like a good shop and worth the wait. If you are making the trip to try the 17, call to confirm the 17 is built and ready to be ridden before you drive out there.

You can still go to the closer shop for quick things. Not a problem.