My bike buying experience couldn't have been better and I couldn't be happier with the level of service I received at Two-Wheeler Dealer in Wilmington, NC. They worked patiently with me until the bike felt properly fitted, and gave me nice discounts on all accessories.

Nice bike! Glad to hear your buying experience went well. Stop back and keep us updated. We will even answer any questions you may have too.

I guess it goes without saying what you're asking us should have been cleared up with the dealer before it was ordered to avoid any misunderstandings? Is it too late to make sure they know how you feel?

hmmm ... what if you don't like it and here's another you think you might like. will they offer to order that one too? interesting question that I never heard before

So far, it's all good. I can take it back in anytime for needed adjustments that reveal themselves as I ride, plus free service for a year, including tuneups. The getting-to-know-you process has been fun so far!

Not sure about this possibility. Since money has now changed hands, I'm thinking this sort of transaction would be a bit more complicated. So far I like it, though!

So glad to hear it's working out

Sorry to say this, but the frame's top tube appears to be too long for you even without you in the picture. The seat is as far forward on the rails as it seems to go and you have a really short stem on there. The stem also means the handlebars are below your seat by quite a bit. The compromise here is quite extreme.

Still, it has the componentry you wanted...

Well, we'll see how it goes. I felt like I was standing on my hands during the first test ride, so they made some adjustments to the stem (I think they might have even changed it out? Not sure because I was having a mild heat stroke after riding several miles in 90 degree temps with the sun in my eyes...) and raised the angle of the bars a bit. It felt fine during the second test ride. I don't feel like I am over reaching either, which was one of the big problems with my other bike. I am hopeful this will work.

After your post I went back and studied the pics - you can't tell the reach of the stem from pics - the viewing angle is wrong. So I can't see how you can make these assessments. Likewise - because you can't fully see the rails on the seat, you can't tell where it is positioned. It actually seems to me the stem is normal, maybe 100mm but that they flipped it so the seating position is upright, again - I can't tell because the angle in the pics don't allow me to see it correctly. As far as the seat on the rails, as long as her knee is in the correct position over the pedals then it doesn't matter - the fore/aft adjustment on the seat should not be used to adjust reach - a good bike shop knows this.

Lastly - and most importantly, if she is happy with the bike, and she just spent a lot of money to be happy, don't rain on her parade.

Keep riding, Laura!

If you've not been doing much riding you will harvest huge fitness gains. It may take many adjustments to get your new ride right for you. You may even end up with a different frame. Sooner or later, though, you will find yourself riding along saying to yourself, "This is just perfect. Nothing could be better!" It's worth the fuss and money.

Yea Yea Yipster and a Hearty Ripper

I'm glad that you got a bike that feels good and a buying experience that felt good.

And I really hope that the machine gives you the type of cycling joy that many here experience

(Oh, and ---- lots here might opine that bike buying is like any other compelling habit. "First time's cheap..")

Many safe and happy miles to you

I rode about 10 miles today (haven't ridden a bike in almost a year after a collarbone crashing incident last June) and the bike felt great. I think I made a great choice with the steel frame--much smoother and more stable ride than aluminum.

Next payday, I will probably add ergonomic grips and a Brooks saddle but the frame geometry seems to suit my body. The bar position kept my neck and spine in "a long continuous line" which is good according to my yoga practice, and my shoulders weren't hunched. I felt really good on the bike and I feel great two hours later. Will reassess Monday at 6 AM.

BTW, should I try a saddle with springs? I sorta want to tour some on this bike. Not more than 30 miles at this juncture..(channeling George 41...)