Yes the specialist bike shop staff can be c*nts.My mate went in one and told him what he wanted and what his budget was(£500).The guy just laughed and said ,"I,m sorry sir i think your in the wrong shop".You can get a decent carrerra from halfords for around £300.Should do you for what you need.

Just to be a photo whore,here,s my cannondale lefty repainted FOCUS ST ORANGE.