Suggestions for trying out possible new bike

[MikewsMITH2]

Are bikes of similar spec really that different to ride? As long as it fits and has the spec you require it should be OK. I have always bought bikes from shops or privately and never test ridden one of them. I ride them for a few weeks to get used to them and change anything I don't like, usually bigger cassette, shorter stem and better saddle. Buying off the peg is a matter of finding the bike that has the mix of components you want, in your size.

[LollyKat]

Are bikes of similar spec really that different to ride?

Yes - they can be! A lot depends on the frame. I once swapped one 531 frame for another - all the components were moved over with no changes. Both frames were similar types and the casual eye probably wouldn't have spotted any difference, but they rode very differently. The second one was faster and handled better, without the shimmy of the first one.