Originally Posted by
raybo
First, I look for a warmshowers(.org) host. Then, I look for a couchsurfing(.org) host. Last, I find a hotel in the area, book in for a night (or two) and send it to them.
Second this. The LBS is a good idea too, and you can pay them to assemble and check it out before you get there. You might find a mechanically inclined warmshowers host to do that for you, but don't expect it.