Originally Posted by
mstateglfr
I have never test ridden a bike I have owned. They have all been frames I've built up, or built then built up, or an internet purchase.
All have fit great because I know the measurements that matter to me.
I've never bought a bike without test riding it first. I can fit a variety of frames, occasionally with a stem change, that's not an issue. Handling characteristics are important to me. I want it to take a corner exactly the way I think a bike should. I don't know the exact measurements for that. I have some general guidelines, but I need a test ride.