Originally Posted by Angus
This may be a noob question, but I'd appreciate your advice. I'm looking to buy my first road bike in 20 years. When I test ride a bike at local shops, the sales person at each shop goes out to the parking lot and waits while I do a couple of loops around the parked cars.
I wouldn't buy a car if I could only drive it in the dealer's lot, and I'm reluctant to spend $2000+ on a bike without riding it for 5-10 miles. Demos aren't a good option because I'm tall and I require a big bike. Should I insist on a longer ride, or is that something that's not done?
I knew I wanted my Roubaix Pro after one trip across the parking lot. Having said that, Orange Cycles here in the Orlando, FL area will allow you to take the bike of your choice for the weekend to properly test ride it. Find a dealer that does that.