Figured I'd post in here again to update my purchase of an 2010 Marin Argenta from JensonUsa.
The bike arrived about 7 days after I ordered it, shipped with UPS, no hidden fees, brokerage fees or anything. The driver left it on the back deck, thankfully I pulled up to my house as he was leaving. Don't know if I would want it sitting there all day.
Box:
Opened it up to find a very nicely packed bike, tones of zip ties to keep things in place, lots of cardboard carefully wrapped to protect the frame and other parts:
It took me about an hour to carefully unpack the bike and put it together. Assembly consisted of attaching the stem and handlebars, seatpost, pedals, wheels and lining up the brakes (which were pretty close). All done with a set of allan keys.
I took it for a few quick spins and was impressed by the fit and feel. Not the lightest bike, but much faster than my hybrid. It really wants to go. The brakes are pretty crappy though.
I picked up a pair of Northwave shoes on kijiji and went to Ridley's to get a set of Look KEO Classic clipless pedals. Went for a ride yesterday after practicing using a clipless system, which was totally new to me. It's a bit scary being that attached to the bike, and despite my practicing, I still bailed in the Edworthy parking lot
. Couple scrapes and a bruised ego for sure!
Don't think I'd like to ride in traffic clipped in, so I'll most likely be using the roadie for the open road, and commute on my hybrid.
All in all - I'm happy with the bike and Jenson's service. Feel bad for not supporting my LBS, so I'm going to make all further purchases local when possible.