Need help with bike size

[Jordyne]

Seajay- Please hear me when I say that I support LBS's intensely. I probably buy something from them once every two weeks, and participate in weekly groups rides with them. I also volunteer in the community through bicycle advocacy and I partner with different shops. I have all of my work done locally as well.
However, as an in-debt student, buying new is not option. And you're talking to the person who grew up with two parents that still own their own small business, and I work for a 501c3. I feel bad for not buying new, but it's simply not an option at this point in my life. So, I buy all my small gear and maintenance from them, and help through advocating alongside them in the community.

[indysteel]

I could be wrong and Seajay can correct me if I am, but my guess is that she's taking issue with your use of local shops to help you with sizing when you have no intention of buying a bike from them. Buying used is fine, but then don't use local shops to help you figure out what size used bike to get. At least that's my interpretation of her post.

[goldfinch]

It is only right to have the bike shop work so hard on your fit if you are upfront about the fact you are not going to be buying from them. In that case, I would offer to pay for the fitting help.

Feeling bad doesn't make up for using the bike shop without paying for the service. Rationalization about your other support only counts if they say it counts. You need to be upfront with them.

[Owlie]

If I go into a shop to look or pick brains, I am very upfront in saying that I'm a student in no position to buy, but could I test out a few bikes? Then I'll buy something, generally. Tubes or nutrition or a pair of gloves...something so they get at least some money for their time. I do have an idea of what I want/need in a bike (unless it's a mountain bike; then I'm useless) and what fits me, so the amount of work that the shop has to put in is somewhat less than if I were walking in with no idea what size bike I needed. If that were the case, I'd offer to pay at least something for their time.

Most bike shop employees understand that it's a major purchase, and at least you'll be able to get a cursory sizing, and an opinion on unisex vs WSD if the shop employee is paying attention, maybe ride a few bikes and start getting an idea of what you like and don't like.