Singlespeed & Fixed Gear - Why are prices at AMERICAN CYCLERY in SF SO HIGH???

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datenschwanz
10-03-05, 04:10 PM
I've been looking up some prices and see a pattern. San Franciscos American Cyclery usually costs 25%-33% more for like items than other shops. Does anybody know why?

It's not like their rent can be THAT much higher. I suspect gouging. Anyone?

Judah
10-03-05, 04:18 PM
They're a rich-guy/collector store. Look at the people you see in there.

They carry a lot of vintage campy stuff that they claim they have to charge a lot for since it costs money to keep NOS on the shelves. They have a pretty impressive amount of vintage campy stuff though.

Also, they're one of those shops that has a lot of the more obscure things that other shops don't bother with. For instance, I need a very small part for a SA three-speed hub that I can't find *anywhere*, online or otherwise, except at American, so they get my business for that, but for most other stuff, I go to Freewheel Hayes, where the prices are lower and Travis is super helpful (unlike Brad at American).
jbaum_sf
10-03-05, 04:33 PM
They get my business when Freehweel Hayes doesnt have something. I got reamed on a nitto stem though. The barenuckle frames are soo much more there then at Business Cycle .

drac_vamp
10-03-05, 04:41 PM
it seems fair though that their prices are a bit higher. they do carry some more obscure parts. i dont know about their 'tude or anything, i've never been chatty enough to listen to an opinion when i'm in there. but i am comfy paying a bit more for something i can't find elsewhere. its a convenience thing i guess.