Originally Posted by rwilkerson
...I know that the prospect of buying a bike from Ebay spooks me though
If $$ are a factor, e-Bay
should scare you. If you get the bike you expect, it may or may not fit. If not, you've got to resell it on e-Bay for (hopefully) your money back less shipping. If the bike isn't what you expect, you may lose more.
Having bought several e-Bay bikes, I've yet to be as happy as with one that I rode before I bought it. If you buy locally, you know how the bike rides and fits. If you're not an owner of your own bike-specific tool set, you'll REALLY value the free tune-ups.
The only option I'd suggest to you is to look at yard sales, college bulletin boards, and Police auctions to see if you can't find a used bike that fits. It won't be as pretty or as clean as a new bike, but the savings may make up for that.
If you just can't wait, ride, like, buy at your LBS. You won't regret it!
Happy shopping!
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Nishiki road bike, Raleigh road bike, Electra Cruiser Lux 7d, Electra Townie 3i, Electra Townie 1, Whatever I find today!