After looking around some, I bought my new bike here because the salesperson really took the time to show me the bikes that met the criteria I gave him, and to explain the benefits and drawbacks of various components, brands, etc. This place has a nice selection of commuter bikes, which was what I was looking for. Whenever I told the guy my concerns about this or that, he'd take that into account before showing me the next bike. Then they let me browse on my own as long as I wanted without trying to push anything. They also let me take all the time I needed on test rides.
Once I picked out my bike, the salesperson helped me pick out the stuff to go on in (rack, fenders, etc.), which the service department installed for free. They gave me a nice discount on the purchase, and sales plan that includes a one-year tune-up. When one of the bike baskets proved to be too tight for me to open, one of the mechanics came out and loosened it up.
All of which is to say, I can't imagine how a shop could do a better job of helping me pick out a bike, and making sure I rode away on something I'll be happy with. Yay, Willy!