Guess my answer is yes I was expecting too much.

I visited four small LBS in my area over a four week span prior to visiting the mega mart. No one stocked anything less than a 53-54cm (I ride a 49-50cm). Most wanted a non-refundable deposit to order one in my size.

I'd be more than willing to pay extra for better service and to support a local business but none of them had something that would fit me and did not seem interested in trying to get something that would.

I have no welding experience. I was basing my comments on a comparison to other bikes I have looked at including Trek, Lemond, Bianchi, Burley, and Felt.