well, for starters, it helps to have done a bit of homework. do your research just like you would if you were buying a car or a computer or a coffee maker. That way you will know if they are pulling your chain. I suggest reading some reviews of the bikes that you are interested in, asking questions and/or searching these forums, and then go into the shop -- by that time you will be a better informed consumer, which is a good thing even if they are being honest!