Hey guys,

Just joined the forum today and I'm about to buy my first road bike. First, I'm 6'3, a lean 245 (if thats possible; I think it's all in my head) and 28 years old. I've been researching bikes for 2 years now and I've settled on a Tarmac SL2 w/105 group set. I plan on buying on Thursday (3/17)! Anyways, I heard some things from the 3 different bike stores and they all had different opinions... of course. Please let me know if any of these claims are true, as far as you know. Or, feel free to share anecdotal incidents that may help me out. And last but not least, I know fit is number 1, but I felt a great fit on both the Tarmac and Madone 4.7... In your opinion, have I selected correctly? THanks!

1. I was told to stay away from the SRAM Rival group set b/c of my size. Apparently, the Shimano 105 is more proven for all riders and the Rival derailleurs aren't as reliable to stand up to force of larger riders?? Sounds like BS to me, but please let me know.

2. Trek doesn't invest as much in the engineering, technology, and R&D of their frames as Specialized and their bikes aren't worth the money at the $2600 price point. Trek would be more for the $4000 rider.

3. Same as above, but with GIANT. The salesmen weren't too high on Giant bikes in the $1500-$3k range. The TCR is only to be considered in the $3500 range.

4. FIT is all that matters and a test ride in the parking lot doesnt prove anything, and therefore, isnt really worth it. --To this last point, I was shocked. I thought for sure they would want me on the bke to allow me to fall in love.

There are many more, but I would love your opinion on the aforementioned 4 points. Service is a huge part of buying the bike for me and I'm a little skeptical of these guys. Any advice will be greatly appreciated. Also, I apologize if I'm posting in the wrong place, this is my first post. Please direct me to the correct thread if need be.

Thanks!