Originally Posted by
aricc24
Is it common for LBS to let you take the bike somewhere else to ride? Id feel a little bit weird about asking.
Also, whats the best way to try and get free service or accessories when buying? Just straight up ask?
Is it safe to take the giant off my list due to the alu fork and ride harshness? Anyone with a giant that can speak to this?
Just about every LBS I have ever been to will let you take extended rides. They should want you to be happy and make the right choice so it shouldn't be a problem.
Free services or accessories? At the price point you are at, limited to none. Some LBS's will offer a 10-20% discount off accessories when a new bike is purchased. Some shops also offer after the purchase maintenance like free tune-ups for a year or for the lifetime of the bike. These vary by LBS so best to ask ahead of time. My favorite LBS offers free lifetime tune ups on newly purchased bikes.
An aluminum fork is going to brutal especially on longer rides.