So it sounds like each store decides on its own policy there- that`s mostly what I was wondering. Yes, I could have just bought the bike to try, as the guy at the store told me, and I could probably go back and talk my way into a longer test, but I really don`t want to go to extremes since I doubt I`d keep the bike anyway. Although it`s probably a better bike for what I want than an all out full scale touring tank, what I REALLY want is 26 in wheels for interchangeability between my other bikes, my wife`s bike and the already growing "wheel and tire warehouse" in my shed. The purpose of the test was mostly just curiosity. I have no problem with the rest of REI and will continue to buy from them, just not a whole bike. Thanks for your responses.