Originally Posted by
lhrocker
.... Being a beginning biker, I wanted the seat to come down a little lower so I can learn with confidence. .....
Often, the only thing blocking the post is the waterbottle screw extending into the frame. In these cases, simply removing the screw solves the problem, allowing the post to go past. I'd buy the bike that was the best overall fit and see if removing the screw solves the problem. Otherwise cut the
minimum needed to achieve your goal off the post, hopefully leaving enough for you to get ideal saddle height next month.
Worst case, you cut too much off and have to shell out for a long post later.