Originally Posted by
CliftonGK1
When I ordered my Cross Check, it was similar. No shops stock them so I couldn't test ride one. Luckily I have a good relationship with the gang at my LBS, and used my fit session to narrow down my choices based on stock setups vs. my fit numbers. There was very little which needed changing on the Surly.
The non-refundable deposit seems a bit severe, IMO. Especially if you're narrowing it down to 1 or 2 bikes which you're looking at, and you're going to buy from that shop.
Maybe there's an option for CCrew here. I'd bet an LBS would be willing to apply the deposit toward the purchase of another bike, or at least store credit, if decides he doesn't want the Portland.
That seems like a reasonable compromise. CCrew isn't out anything and the LBS is guaranteed some return for taking a risk on CCrew deciding he doesn't want the Portland.