Joe,
My LBS is right beside the Silver Comet Trail, the owner tells you to take it out as far as you need to go in order to see if you like it. With regards to height, I am very new, but I certainly agree with you. I was very concerned with not flying off the seat and over the handlebars every time I hit the brakes. My KHS is at least five inches longer from stem to seatpost than my GT was. It is much more comfortable. Maybe as time goes by I will learn more and become more particular about what I want out of a bike. - Ted