Thanks for the great advice. It is definately helping me narrow the search.

How do I go about trying out bikes? When I bought my hybrid, I spent about 10 minutes riding it in the parking lot. Not enough time to really know if it is the correct bike for me. I did go to a LBS an hour away from my home for the better service. The LBS near my home (15 minutes away) has an owner and manager who come across as very aloof.

I am considering the Cannondale R1000 Feminine or the Trek Pilot 5.2.
How do I ride these particular bikes in MY size if they do not have them on the floor. How do I get any more testing time than a 10 minute parking lot trip?

Do any of you gals ride either of these bikes?

Please help.