Pacific Northwest - Best bike shops for a newb

I am looking to get a cyclocross bike and convert to make a commuter/weekend ride. What are some of the better LBS' around? I am in NW Portland, but can drive so local can be in Sellwood.

Another question, given the above info, where would be a good place to find one used? Or which shops typically have the better deals?

For used look at Sellwod Cycles and Veloce.
Many shops in Portland look around and get a feel for what they tell you.
If you know what you want and need, as far as components and geometry you can try REI or Performance, if you need advise go to the smaller ones: River City, Bike Gallery and the many others.
Did you look at craigslist?
Good luck.

Paolo

Thanks Dabbo.

As I have decided what style of bike I wish to get. Now I need to narrow it down from there. In the position that I don't want to get too much of a bike, but also don't want to regret not getting the next bike up in the line.

Been checking Craigslist but not finding what I am looking for in the size I would likely need.

I got a Kona Jake at Bike Gallery, and it has turned out to be a great bike for commuting.

The thing I love about Bike Gallery is that the mechanics there seem to care even more about the state of my bike than I do, and I'm the kind of guy who wipes his spokes clean. I wouldn't take my bike anywhere else to have it worked on.

Shameless Plug - I like the mechanics at Bike and Hike (NE Grand) and I like the goodies at River City Bicycles (MLK).

Thanks guys. Debating now between Cross Check or a Jake. Leaning toward the Jake right now, but need to go ride them both. 21rst Ave bikes has them both and pricing is in line with everywhere else. And they are only a few blocks from where I live. Anyone had good or bad experiences there? So far on two trips in, they have been cool.

Question on the components on these two. Which is better or is it a wash?

Trying to make a decision by the weekend so I can make my first commute next week. (Due to travel that wouldn't be until next Friday.)

The components are really similar between the Jake and the Cross Check. The biggest difference I see is that the Cross Check has bar end shifters while the Jake has integrated shifters. That's a matter of personal preference, I think. I love my integrated shifters and wouldn't consider bar ends, but I know other people feel just the opposite. The integrated shifters are more expensive, so the Jake probably has a cheaper component somewhere else that I didn't spot to even it out.

I'd recommend 7 Corners. It's where I got my Cross Check.