Originally Posted by
roadwarrior
I like to get (within the bikes that fit) two different types...like say a TCR carbon something and a Defy carbon something (if the Defy's shorter top tube will work) and have them ride them. I'll tell them what to expect, have them take both bikes over our rough riding area so they can experience the different feel for that, and solicit thier feedback.
[SNIP]
Sprint it a few times, take it for some handling moves, quick turns etc...ride it at a tempo speed, hit a few bumps, done.
I think there's a real value in this for people not sure what style they want to ride. Whether they can make the decision in a short ride or need a bit longer is up for debate, but I think this is valuable for those who don't know what they're doing (and those who know less probably need a bit longer than those more experienced to feel what the differences are).