Originally Posted by
mcgeggy
To be honest I get why everyone says go the LBS route. I just find it a bit overwhelming- there are so many around my area and the more I visit the more choices I will be faced with. And I fear that the one I decide to buy from might be more interested in unloading a bike they want to get rid of and as a newbie I will be an easy target, lol!
Frankly, there are so many bikes that'll take care of your needs that the thing that you're really shopping for is a good salesperson/consultant. Find someone that you feel comfortable with and go from there.