I've never had a bike from an actual bike shop. I thought I would be intimidated and end up leaving but the second I walked in the store I was greeted by Penny (the Doodle) and David. David walked me through road bikes, off road bikes and hybrid. He was completely honest and it helped me trust him to know he wasn't being paid commission. Penny just stood around looking cute. She was not as helpful.
I ended up getting the Liv Rove 2 Disc 2018 (??)