my two current bikes were both bought without a test ride, and my next bike will be bought without a test ride as well.
Those who know me, Know I get stressed out about the bike fit. The first first two bikes I didn’t get all that much help, one was bought new from CC, and the other was bought used on Craiglist. I use a geometry comparison website, as well as the actual data from the brands. The next purchase both shops have been really helpful determining fit. Still stresses me out though.