I want to buy a road bike but unfortunately all the local LBS's do not inspire confidence as they mainly deal with MTB and hybrids. I have a budget and know the spec I want but my main problem is not knowing which is the correct size for me. I know a lot of people mention that you should just try out a few and see what 'feels right'. But what may 'feel right' isn't necessarily what fits correctly i.e. slouching on the sofa 'feels right' and more comfortable than sitting correctly upright.
So when I'm on the bike what should I be looking for in terms of head/hand/backside/feet/knee positions? The only indication the LBS guys give me is that when on the seat with my hands on the brake hoods with elbows slightly bent, I should be able to look down and see the front hub completely obscured by the handlebars. Well that's the front bit done (or is it?), so what about the position of my backside and then the knees at TDC etc..
I'd appreciate any help as the few web resources I've read seem to conflict. My use for the bike will be pure training for fitness, maybe 100 miles per week, including club runs at the weekends.
Find a new Shop to go to, at least to get a correct fitting even if you have to drive awhile it will be worth it. You could also look for a local club. Many of these riders have been properly fit before and will be willing to share information with you. One can read about getting fit on a bicycle but it is very difficult to determine a correct position by oneself especially if one is new to how it feels to be on a road bike. it will be very usefully to read about the fitting and brush up on some terms. Make sure you have a list a questions in your head to ask becasue if the shop can not offer you advice on basic questions then you should find a shop that can help you. A bicycle is a big investment for some people and it only makes sense to get the most out of it.
Just keep searching. Find a shop that makes you feel comfortable or use the Dealer Locater on most manufacturer's websites. I used the SPECIALIZED website to find a reputable dealer. They went over EVERYTHING with me and made me feel very comfortable since I'm a newbie.
