Unsure if shop is conning me

[dddd]

Definitely ride the bike that you feel best on, at least you have had a chance to test them back-to-back.

Also about the rough ride, adjusting the tyre pressures to suit conditions with any given size of tyre is critical to having some useful bump absorption.

Lower pressures reduce the rate of tread wear and improve traction as well, especially when un-seen gravel is present on the road.

If you buy a new bike you'll have to keep an eye on it.

 

[broady]

The Raleigh Max frame is horrible (imo) and weighs more than some whole bikes! (Maybe not quite).
What frame is the Dimondback?
What area do you live in?