Thanks so far for the good advice. Sounds like one should not EXPECT to get a price reduction (like at a car dealership), although it occassionally may happen.

I had been offered half off of an '04 Jamis ($850 discounted to $425), which seemed like a great deal except the bike was way too tall for me. Which is the primary reason why I'm not likely to buy something used. I really want a new bike that is properly fitted by the LBS (and even specially ordered, if necessary) to fit ME.

I've been looking at Trek 520, Giant OCR Touring, and most recently, Specialized Sequoia. I like them all, even though they vary somewhat and the pricing is a little different. But I like the LBS that is sellling the Specialized the best. I trust them, and therefore the Sequoia is leading my selection.

However, the Sequoia is also an '04 model and the '05s are inbound. Perhaps I should wait for the newer model?

Thanks again to all!