Basically in a nutshell, I bought my first new bike in 15 years last summer and 5 months later, I am buying a new bike and selling the old new one. NO ones to blame but myself, but if I can give any advice looking back-if youve got a LBS that offers extended test rides and/or demo bikes-GO for it!! They charged my CC $2000 for a safety deposit which is refunded as soon as i dont steal the bike. I rode the test bike that was carefully fitted to me (which is huge and undr no obligation to buy no less) by the salesperson and I rode it for 2 hours up hills, down two 45mph descents (one techincal), 1 to 2km climbs of 4 to 8% grades, flats, rollers, headwinds, you name it I hit it on this ride. Tomorrow I ride it harder and do some full out sprints in my own gear and on roads I know!!
By comparison my test rides of all the bikes I thought I wanted the FIRST time consisted of rides in parking lots (which I knew was stupid) or at best around the neighborhood by the store. No time to make adjustments, ride, think abut them, feel them out then make more to make sure its the right bike for you.
So in short-if you have a reputable bike shop with truly concerned and hardworking employees and they offer this service-by all means-take them up on the offer!! I'm not saying you cannot buy a bike sight unseen (e-bay, online retailer) and be happy, but I just spent $2200 5 months ago to conclude its not the right frame or material or geometry or whatever for me.
Its been an eye opening day for me!!
Ray
By comparison my test rides of all the bikes I thought I wanted the FIRST time consisted of rides in parking lots (which I knew was stupid) or at best around the neighborhood by the store. No time to make adjustments, ride, think abut them, feel them out then make more to make sure its the right bike for you.
So in short-if you have a reputable bike shop with truly concerned and hardworking employees and they offer this service-by all means-take them up on the offer!! I'm not saying you cannot buy a bike sight unseen (e-bay, online retailer) and be happy, but I just spent $2200 5 months ago to conclude its not the right frame or material or geometry or whatever for me.
Its been an eye opening day for me!!
Ray