Originally Posted by
dirtyhippy
I am hesitant to suggest that the OP use his LBS to get info/test rides and then buy a bike elsewhere. However, buying used is definitely the way to go for a "first" bike. If you have a LBS that deals in used bikes, that would be ideal.
Gotta be careful with the places that sell used or refurbed. I've seen at least one storefront recycled bike place that tried to sell people rusted junk. They didn't even bother to replace rusted chains on the stuff they were selling. Even though it's a used bike it should look pretty clean, be totally tuned up, new tires, new brake pads, have a shiny new chain and no wear on the gears.