How I did it: I went down to a locally-owned bike shop and test-rode a bunch of different bikes on a sunny day. It was the best shopping experience of my life - and I didn't even buy anything that day! I narrowed it down to what model I wanted, did some research on it to get some other opinions, made sure it was in my budget, then came back the next Saturday to test ride it some more and have some minor adjustments made. Then... I bought it!

Lessons & tips: You can generally get much better service and advice in a smaller shop, rather than a big sporting goods store. Locally-owned shops are generally populated by experts who want to sell you a GOOD bike, and not just any bike; moreover, they have an interest in tweaking your bike just right so you'll be extra happy with it.

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May 23, 2010, 09:44AM PDT | 0 comments | 3 cheers