Buying my first Cyclocross - advice needed!
I am new to biking and new to this forum, and would appreciate some advice from the more seasoned bikers.
So far I have test driven the Tricross, the Poprad and the Trek XO1.
The Tricross was the most fun ride for me. I'm very tempted to buy it - but I have two concerns:
1. I want to make sure I have the best fit. I've read a few posts on bike sizes and the more i'm learning the more i'm finding out that there is stuff to know! This is getting very frustrating because I can't wait to start commuting to work. Not only is there a lot to know, but it sounds like the best measurement will ultimately be whatever 'feels' like the best ride to me. But i've found that most stores don't carry many sizes!!
2. The prices for these 3 bikes at a couple bike shops near where I live range from $1300-$1500. However a quick look on ebay and bikesdirect reveals prices that are several hundred dollars less.
At this point, should I just buy the tricross from my local store because I know I like the way it rides? If so, are there cons to buying it online for much less? Or do i need to chill out first and read/learn more about getting the right bike geometry/size? (How important is it to get the exact size vs. being off by an inch?)
Again, thank you for bearing with me in this post. I'll be less antsy once i've bought my first bike and am just perusing this forum for other topics such as accessories.