My apologies for yet another question.

The Felt Speed bicycle has a wheelbase that is ~4 cm shorter than the corresponding Trek FX and Jamis Coda models. ~3 cm shorter chainstay, ~1 cm shorter from the crank to the center of the front wheel.

An LBS told me that a shorter wheelbase/chainstay will mean a more jarry ride since the rear wheel is closer to the saddle. However, this geometry is more racing oriented and will let the bike accelerate faster. Also, a longer wheelbase is more stable. He said that I may or may or may not notice any of this. He was surprised that there was such a big difference in wheelbase between the Felt Speed and the other bikes.

I hope to test ride the Felt Speed this weekend. Please let me know if there is anything I should watch out for during the test ride as a consequence of the shorter wheelbase/chainstay.

Thanks!