If you've got the internet, then there really aren't many excuses these days. In my general experience, most people in retail of any kind are far less helpful than say 10 years ago. I hear the phrase "(shop name) where service is just a word" spoken far too often these days. Added to that, so many are pushing floor stock whether it be the correct choice or not.
Find out what brands are available to you in your shopping radius. Check out those brand websites and also shop websites to see what fits your style and budget and what you like the look of. Get that shortlist and do like many many others have done and seek advice on here to narrow down the search some more. Then go and visit respective shops for a hands on and ride away happy.