It's been a long time - how to shop?

[Aggie_Ama]

DH did the talking for me since he had a lot of knowledge about components, etc....

Your LBS should ask you what your intentions are (centuries, recreation, racing, etc) and have a good idea of what fit you need by your build. The LBS looked at my build and immediately determined I would be best on WSD, then explained why this was my best choice. Our LBS let you take it for a short ride (although they may allow longer). They then put you up on your bike on a trainer and spent about 45 minutes getting everything where it should be. Make sure you wear (bring) cycling clothes. My advice would be to speak up. Think of it like buying a car, ask questions and don't let them pressure you. Hope that helps.

[ladyfish]

The LBS's I checked out when looking for a bike all let me take the bike out for as long as I wanted. I spent at least 30 minutes on each bike if not more. That way I could really see how it felt. I'm glad I did. One bike that I really liked and "thought" was a good fit was horrible when I tried standing climbs--it just felt wobbly. I think the frame was too small and I didn't get good balance when standing. So ride it around, and do all the things you do on a bike. They shouldn't care about the time, unless it's almost closing time.

Good luck. Try lots of bikes!

[dachshund]

That's very helpful, thanks!