I think I will do that. Even though it was the first bike I rode, the salesperson and I talked and she had time to size things up and make a recommendation. It sure rode nice.

I decided to look for a Cervelo RS because it has a relaxed geometry, I wanted a stiffer, lighter bike, and not too many people have them around here. I thought that I might need a 56, but the first shop measured my inseam and said that I needed a 57. He then figured out that they don't come in a 57 so we settled on a 56 (at this point I didn't have much confidence in the guy). But they didn't have any in stock to test ride so it was a moot point.

So I called another Cervelo dealer and they said that they had a 56 to test ride. I go there and they measure me and said that a 54 would be a better fit. Because of my long legs and femurs, the saddle has to be moved back a bit, but to avoid a long reach, I'll need a short stem. He also gave me good reasons why a 51 ora 56 wouldn't work. He also carried Scott, BMC and Orbea, but he thought that the RS would be the best for me. I had a lot of confidence that this guy knew what he was doing. So, I ordered a 54.

The bottom line is that you need to find a LBS who you have confidence in. Ask a lot of questions. Their answers will give you a clue if they know what they're talking about.

I bought my first bike at Performance and got it "fitted" there. I've never had any serious problems (probably because I only ride for 2-3 hours), but after three years, I think that they did a poor job and that I'm too stretched out.

You got it. Remember that once you find the bike that feels best, you and your fitter can make it feel better by changing stems, handlebars, and saddles.

I agree that feel has a lot to do with being satisfied with your bike. I bought a bike once for looks and quality but ended up selling it and buying a bike that felt better. Ironically... the one that feels good and rides better ended up being a lower quality name and its actually quite ugly......... Go figure ?