Buying a bike in Amsterdam
I am considering a layover of two days in Amsterdam (returning to the U.S. from business in Africa) to buy a Dutch bike to bring home. I have researched a lot about Dutch bikes on the Web and there are many brands I like, or at least think I would like, and I understand that the choice is obviously much greater in Holland than over here (especially in Maine where I live), as well as cheaper. Because of my mileage status on Delta/KLM, I am allowed free transport of bags up to 70 pounds, even when flying coach. I have never been to Amsterdam, much less shopped for a bike there. I am looking for advice on the best bike shops in the city with a great selection of brands that will also be able to pack up anything I buy (within one day) for airline travel. Obviously I will contact recommended bike shops in advance to verify the information, but I'm not sure where to begin. I speak zero Dutch although my French is reasonably good, and I understand English is fairly common there; is it reasonable to assume someone at a bike shop will speak English or French?