Clydesdales/Athenas (200+ lb / 91+ kg) - Bike Shops (Bike Snobs)

Why is it that certain bike shops treat you as though you are an idiot, and that they are better than anyone else? I mean while I was looking for my bike, I went to about 5 bike shops. 2 of them I could even get someone to talk to me. and the other 2 kept trying to sell me a more expensive bike than I wanted or could afford, and then they got the Bike Snob attitude going. The one shop that treated me like a customer got my business, they answered my questions, offered me a test ride, and sold me my Fuji, They have since gotten my business for all my other biking needs.

Just for sake of aurgument, I was typically dressed in slacks or jeans, a Polo shirt and nice shoes and about 30lbs overweight when I went into these stores. The Trek dealers seemed to be the worst, I was looking at the 3700 and they kepp pushing a 4xxx something. I asked the guy if they could order me a 3700 and his response was it wasn't worth his time. I guess unless you are buying a $1000 or more bike these shops just don't need you.

No wonder Wallyworld gets so many bike sales:(

Sorry just had to vent

Sometimes they change their attitude when you seem to know and talk about the products knowledgeably but some are just so aloof as soon as they see a bigger person. When I was starting out couple of years ago I was a bit fatter and even though I was asking about specific products and details they just couldn't wait for me to leave so I did.

I went back to that shop last weekend because my usual LBS was out of stock and they treated me much more courteously..could it be I lost weight? I'm still a clyde but only by 2 lbs now and maybe they thought this guy might get on a bike occassionally. Pretty stupid attitude. They obviously didn't remember me but I remembered and handed over my money through gritted teeth.

Lucky my regular is much nicer.

You say there's (at least) 5 bike shops that you can go to, so I'm guessing there's gotta be some competition for customers. If it's "not worth his time" to order you or other customers the bike they want, then that shop has got to be losing business to the other 4.
I don't go to shops that treat me 2nd rate based on my size or what I ride. When I first moved to Redmond, I had that problem with Redmond Cycle. I brought my 16 year old Stumpjumper in and asked about some parts. The guy "helping" me said that they don't deal with anything that old. Seriously... I was there to spend money, and he so much as told me "we don't need your business." OK. So I took my business elsewhere and didn't go back for 2 years, until I took a longshot at finding a part for a restoration I was working on. Again, a 17 year old part I was looking for. This time, the mechanic went in back and dug around in a box until he found the bolt I needed (and gave it to me for free.)
I guess they realized that in a town full of bike shops, they can't treat people like dirt and only cater to the $10K boutique bike crowd.

Sometimes they change their attitude when you seem to know and talk about the products knowledgeably but some are just so aloof as soon as they see a bigger person. When I was starting out couple of years ago I was a bit fatter and even though I was asking about specific products and details they just couldn't wait for me to leave so I did.

I went back to that shop last weekend because my usual LBS was out of stock and they treated me much more courteously..could it be I lost weight? I'm still a clyde but only by 2 lbs now and maybe they thought this guy might get on a bike occassionally. Pretty stupid attitude. They obviously didn't remember me but I remembered and handed over my money through gritted teeth.

Lucky my regular is much nicer.

ONLY BY 2LBS?

* planning his exit strategy *

there are actually about 20 bike shops in the DFW area, 2 of these dealers I was talking about are part of a chain in North Dallas Suburbs, I went into there other store today to find something at lunch (Cause they are the closest to my work) and I could not get any help Literally, but when I left the store without being helped the guy came over to where I was looking to make sure I didn't walk out with something. Mind you I am not in a suit but I am driving a 08 Nissan Titan and look professional. That clinched my ever doing business with this chain. I will drive the extra milage to the LBS that has treated me like they value my business, even though I am going to have to have them special order this, I just don't want my money going to such snobs.

ONLY BY 2LBS?

* planning his exit strategy *

Oh those last 2 are impossible. I've been here before last year then gained another 8 lbs over winter. Anyway, I'm not leaving clydes forum..the road forum is too scary

The guy "helping" me said that they don't deal with anything that old. Seriously... I was there to spend money, and he so much as told me "we don't need your business."

This time, the mechanic went in back and dug around in a box until he found the bolt I needed (and gave it to me for free.)
I guess they realized that in a town full of bike shops, they can't treat people like dirt and only cater to the $10K boutique bike crowd.

I've found that in some of the bigger shops what really matters is the individual shop employee. Some people are just jerks and some people are pretty awesome. When going into a shop I don't know I look for the person that looks up and smiles before they do anything else. If I start talking shop I look for the person that can crack a decent joke or laughs when I make one, the one that looks like they ride their bike for the love of it, not because they feel riding a $10K bike makes them better than other people.

While that's all well and good if you can find a small shop with people who are all like that... go there!

While that's all well and good if you can find a small shop with people who are all like that... go there!

The crazy thing is, the shop where all that happened is a small shop. I think that's why over the course of 2 years they changed their attitude and their product range. When I first went there, it was all Orbea and Pinarello racing bikes, Santa Cruz downhillers, and a wall full of Rolf wheels. Now there's a lot of $300-$700 bikes and much more appeal to the everyday cyclist, not just the local racers and people with a few grand to drop on a new set of Topolinos.

I have experienced the same type of thing around here. I have a couple shops that I feel have treated me very well, a few that are just okay, and a couple shops who's doorways I no longer darken because of the serivce or lack of service I have recieved from them.

My best advice is to just keep looking until you find a shop that is a good "fit" for you. If you do not have the benefit of 6-7 bike shops in town then I guess its time to move someplace that does. :)

Now there's a lot of $300-$700 bikes and much more appeal to the everyday cyclist, not just the local racers and people with a few grand to drop on a new set of Topolinos.

It's amazing how starvation can change someone's perspective.

Blacktri, I know I've been in Richardson Bike Mart two or three times; one time I had about 7 different people ask if they could help me, other times maybe 1- I think it just depended on how busy they were, not so much on me. And the store down by the Arboretum seemed worse that way than the main store.

My first bike, when I got back into it, was used.
I brought it in a few times for busted spokes/wheel truing.

When I shopped for a new bike, they knew I was credible.

StephanH, LOL I would have thought it was Richardson Bike Mart as well, but it wasn't it was another chain that is in Coppell, and Flower Mound:-) of course that may explain it.
If I can give cudo's to a great small shop in Denton called "the Bicycle Path" is an outstanding place, small but thier people are top notch in taking care of the customer.

I believe it has more to do with how you carry yourself and what you say than it does with your appearance. When I go into a bike store I already know what I am looking for. When I walk in I make eye contact with whoever is working there and say "how are you doing". They usually say "good, what can I help you with". Then I say "I'm looking for X bike", or "I need X part". I'm 6'1" 305lbs and have never had a problem.

Randy

some people that think they have been riding before biking became a trend have a seat post up their ass.

unfortunately most bike shops will try to screw you if you don't know the language

Evidently I've got a really good shop near me. I visited a few times while I was looking and they were always nice and had a reasonably priced good selection of aftermarket stuff too. When i went to buy I couldn't get close to the bikesdirect stuff locally so I bought a Windsor Knight for $799 shipped and put it together last night and promptly took it in for a tuneup today.

As I was expecting to get some crap for not buying locally I just went in and explained that I didn't buy it from them and that I just wanted to pay for a tune and was met with open arms. He said they didn't care where you bought it from and they'd gladly adjust and check it out for me. He told me that with it being new it didn't need a full tune up, but a check up and adjustment would get the wheels trued up and everything gone over.

He seemed genuinely interested in the bike too and was a little shocked when I told him the price. They were all really cool to me and I'll be giving them all of my business for aftermarket goodies. As a matter of fact, they were so cool I grabbed a cycloputer off the shelf and asked if they'd mount it for me and he said no problem and tied it to the bike. It will all be ready Thursday for me.

I'm really happy with them. I just wish I could have afforded to buy a bike from them. ;)

unfortunately most bike shops will try to screw you if you don't know the language

Thats so true. The best way I have found to judge a new bike shop is to go in and say I'm thinking about getting a bike. If they try to sell you a four year old model for this years price walk out the door and never go back. Ive had it happen before.

Randy

Why is it that certain bike shops treat you as though you are an idiot, and that they are better than anyone else? I mean while I was looking for my bike, I went to about 5 bike shops. 2 of them I could even get someone to talk to me. and the other 2 kept trying to sell me a more expensive bike than I wanted or could afford, and then they got the Bike Snob attitude going. The one shop that treated me like a customer got my business, they answered my questions, offered me a test ride, and sold me my Fuji, They have since gotten my business for all my other biking needs.

Just for sake of aurgument, I was typically dressed in slacks or jeans, a Polo shirt and nice shoes and about 30lbs overweight when I went into these stores. The Trek dealers seemed to be the worst, I was looking at the 3700 and they kepp pushing a 4xxx something. I asked the guy if they could order me a 3700 and his response was it wasn't worth his time. I guess unless you are buying a $1000 or more bike these shops just don't need you.

No wonder Wallyworld gets so many bike sales:(

Sorry just had to vent

A good dealer will ask about budget, and see what they have within that budget, now sometimes they can recommend something that is a little over your budget, but is a much better deal. Mind you, if your looking for a particular model, it doesn't really take much to order it in, in the proper size, after all, the money of a person who is 30lbs overweight is just as good, as that of the person who isn't. Some bike shops forget that the bike is often less then half the total amount that person will spend in the first year or two, and if the bike shop accommodates the buyer, they will return.

Strangely enough customers tend to be more dealer loyal then brand loyal, so dealers that forget that, are likely to not be in business for long. For chains, where you are ill treated by a store, write the company, they are often very interested to hear, because customers tend to tar all stores with the same brush.

Just for sake of aurgument, I was typically dressed in slacks or jeans, a Polo shirt and nice shoes and about 30lbs overweight when I went into these stores. The Trek dealers seemed to be the worst, I was looking at the 3700 and they kepp pushing a 4xxx something. I asked the guy if they could order me a 3700 and his response was it wasn't worth his time. I guess unless you are buying a $1000 or more bike these shops just don't need you.

No wonder Wallyworld gets so many bike sales:(

Sorry just had to vent

What you have to realize is that a Trek 3700 is a very low end bike. The profit margin on a $330 bike is probably less then 10%...and the shop will have to pay freight. That's asking a lot for $33! Ordering one special may not even be an option since the run on the 2008 have probably been made and the inventory set.

Additionally, a 4300 is only $420 and is a much better bike for that extra $100. You'll outgrow both bikes but you'll outgrow the 3700 a lot faster. Then, you're going to have to pay more then the extra $100 for a better bike. In the end, you'll probably end up paying $750 because you'll buy the 4300 anyway. I can see the LBS's logic.

I also disagree with the other opinions that shops are out to screw you. Most every shop I've been in is helpful...there are exceptions...and have fair prices on their merchandise. A mom and pop shop can't compete with on-line retailers but often their prices are close enough to make using them a wise choice. After all, you end up paying shipping for those 'deals' on-line and often the shipping is enough to make the 'deal' seem not so good. Paying $8 shipping to save $4 doesn't make much sense, does it?

In the end, a shop that treats its customers poorly won't stay in business for long.

I wasn't guessing that RBM was the shop you mentioned, just used it for an example. I've bought some stuff there and also from REI.

I live not too far from Don Johle's Bike World here in Garland. I haven't bought major items there, but they're always friendly and helpful and knowledgeable. Think I got my helmet and some handlebars and some bearings and a few other items there.

I just bought my first roadbike from a local chain store (Scheels All Sports) and they were overly helpful. I even asked them if a guy my size, 6'2" 260 with a belly, could ride a bike with narrow tires. "No problem just watch the tire pressure" he said with a smile. I even bought a leftover closeout model.

CYCcommute,
While I totally agree with what you said about profit margins, I was under a hard budget, I am sure that they were just trying to be helpful by recommending a nicer bike however It was not an option, If the bike shop had just stated that then I could have tried to work around or to offer to help pay shipping so that the shop did not lose money, you see I also know that in a chain business or any business that the profit margins are built around these kinds of issues. But you always give the customer the option, cause guess what? I will not recommend this shop to anyone. Even though they have Trek bikes, so does many others.

I just bought my first roadbike from a local chain store (Scheels All Sports) and they were overly helpful. I even asked them if a guy my size, 6'2" 260 with a belly, could ride a bike with narrow tires. "No problem just watch the tire pressure" he said with a smile. I even bought a leftover closeout model.

I bought my first Schwinn 10spd from Scheels when they were a hardware store in my home town.

I just bought my first roadbike from a local chain store (Scheels All Sports) and they were overly helpful. I even asked them if a guy my size, 6'2" 260 with a belly, could ride a bike with narrow tires. "No problem just watch the tire pressure" he said with a smile. I even bought a leftover closeout model.

The local shops here are all great, for the most part. But Scheels, I hate to say, is my favorite. Partially because I work about a half mile away from it, and can walk the MUP to the store over my lunch hour if need be, but also because they've always given me outstanding service. They're the shop that sold me my favorite bike - Specialized Hardrock - and get this.. they DOWNsold me. I was looking at those, Stumpjumpers and Rockhoppers. It all came down to Rockhopper vs Hardrock.. and they sold me on the Hardrock because "it's just so much more tough".

1500+ miles later, I'll agree with them. Sure, it's getting pretty sloppy about holding in gear, and it needs me to get off my behind and put the new set of Nimbus Armadillos I bought for it on it.. but otherwise it's been totally rock-solid. So rock solid that I've promoted it to commuter duty, ready to tackle the rough streets on my daily grind.

Another shop, Cycle Works, is also very awesome. Great staff, and they'll bend over backwards for the customer. I bought my Trek 7.3 FX there and while I had numerous problems with the rear wheel, none of those problems were really their fault. BUT they did what it took to make them right, rebuilding the wheel twice, etc etc etc.

Monkey Wrench in Lincoln is also very good, great guys that definitely know their stuff.

Anyway.. summary is that there are good, there are bad. I've been into one bad, and won't go back, but I guess I'm just lucky?

The local shops here are all great, for the most part. But Scheels, I hate to say, is my favorite. Partially because I work about a half mile away from it, and can walk the MUP to the store over my lunch hour if need be, but also because they've always given me outstanding service. They're the shop that sold me my favorite bike - Specialized Hardrock - and get this.. they DOWNsold me. I was looking at those, Stumpjumpers and Rockhoppers. It all came down to Rockhopper vs Hardrock.. and they sold me on the Hardrock because "it's just so much more tough".

1500+ miles later, I'll agree with them. Sure, it's getting pretty sloppy about holding in gear, and it needs me to get off my behind and put the new set of Nimbus Armadillos I bought for it on it.. but otherwise it's been totally rock-solid. So rock solid that I've promoted it to commuter duty, ready to tackle the rough streets on my daily grind.

Another shop, Cycle Works, is also very awesome. Great staff, and they'll bend over backwards for the customer. I bought my Trek 7.3 FX there and while I had numerous problems with the rear wheel, none of those problems were really their fault. BUT they did what it took to make them right, rebuilding the wheel twice, etc etc etc.

Monkey Wrench in Lincoln is also very good, great guys that definitely know their stuff.

Anyway.. summary is that there are good, there are bad. I've been into one bad, and won't go back, but I guess I'm just lucky?

If it's getting grumpy about shifting, with 1500 miles on it, you may need to change out the chain, I know I need to do mine, but with half a metre of snow on the ground, and most roads narrowed by a good metre, riding to the shop, is out of the question right now......

i was treated quite nicely when i went to check out bikes at the local trek store.

I was greeted with a hello upon walking in.

i checked out the website before going in and the su 2.0 looked like a good one for me. im a complete noob and when I described what type of bike i wanted with out even mentioning the su 2.0 they recommended me that bike. I had also been considering some of their bike path bikes (fx and 7000's) The salesman suggested the su 2.0 over some of the more expensive bike path bikes. even though i would be fine with some of the other bikes, I think the one i am getting fits my needs best.

I had been to the Performance Bicycle shop about a year ago just to buy a present for someone. They were a little busy but had plenty of employees there but it was a little bit like I was bothering them. It took way too long to get a simple cyclocomputer. I didn't even bother looking at performance bicycle when looking for my bike. but I might check them out again for accessories.

I know the stores you are referring to, I bought my Trek 7.3FX from the one in the Park Cities. They were very helpful and answered my questions. I have also bought bikes from RBM, the Garland road location and except for one "mean old" salesman, everyone there was helpful also.

I went to a bike store the other day and I couldn't find a price tag on an item so I asked the person and he was like I don't know and just stood there, he also didn't even know what a headset was. Sheesh.

I went to a bike store the other day and I couldn't find a price tag on an item so I asked the person and he was like I don't know and just stood there, he also didn't even know what a headset was. Sheesh.

Was this one of the big chains? Or a local shop?

East Hill

Was this one of the big chains? Or a local shop?

East Hill

Local I like to call them Snobino Cycles(Sabino Cycles)

Local I like to call them Snobino Cycles(Sabino Cycles)

Perhaps No Sabe would work too :p ?

East Hill

My test for ANY retail establishment is if a staff member says "Hello" to me within 8 seconds of me entering the store.

Every time it has happened in a bike shop I've ended up buying something and returning for other purchases later.

Every time it hasn't happened, the store was full of roadie snobs or mtb snobs (yes, there really is such a thing) or somebody pissed me off and I never went back.

Once in a mostly mtb store two guys had spent the entire time talking. I walked around for several minutes, looking at everything, while these two clowns yakked about how important they were to the local mtb scene or whatever.

Two years later I decided to give them another chance... and the same thing happened.


patric wrote:
some people that think they have been riding before biking became a trend have a seat post up their ass.

That'd make a great sig.

If it's getting grumpy about shifting, with 1500 miles on it, you may need to change out the chain, I know I need to do mine, but with half a metre of snow on the ground, and most roads narrowed by a good metre, riding to the shop, is out of the question right now......

Nay. Three second cable adjustment.

Folks, I hate to tell you, but they treat MOST people that way!!! One of the major lbs in town I just won't set foot in. I'm 6ft-3in, but a thin 180lber. I can walk in, tell them what I want, and they'll say "No you don't. You need this!" Last time there I finally said I didn't ask you what I needed. I told you what I want. I'll gladly go elsewhere to get it, spun round, and walked out. There are more bike shops down the road. I feel your pain!!
Billbass
www.billrountree.net (http://www.billrountree.net)

The shop I frequent doesn't treat anyone that way. I've never seen customers get ignored, even if it means all they get when they walk in is a "Just a few minutes and someone can help you" when the shop is really busy.
I'm a regular there, and even I get a "You need any help, or just looking around?" when the shop is packed.

I like going to the main store of Richardson Bike Mart even though the Garland Rd. store is closer. Last time at the Garland Rd store, I was looking for a Trek 7000 and the guy kept pushing me to a more expensive bike because they didn't have my size in stock. Once he realized I wasn't going to budge from that bike, he just blew me off after that. At the main store, I told them what I wanted the bike for and they were saying "That's the perfect bike for what you need!" not trying to sell me something I didn't want. This also happened when I bought yellow bike from them 8 years ago. If I make a major purchase, it's going to be at the main store.

I also disagree with the other opinions that shops are out to screw you. Most every shop I've been in is helpful...there are exceptions...and have fair prices on their merchandise.

+1 +1 +1
My LBS is great! They have always treated me with respect and intelligence - even when this oh-so Athena first walked into their shop looking for one of the lowest end hybrids available


A mom and pop shop can't compete with on-line retailers but often their prices are close enough to make using them a wise choice. After all, you end up paying shipping for those 'deals' on-line and often the shipping is enough to make the 'deal' seem not so good. Paying $8 shipping to save $4 doesn't make much sense, does it?

In the end, a shop that treats its customers poorly won't stay in business for long.

Also, part of what you pay for with an LBS is their service and experience. I'ts one thing to order online if you know exactly what you need and how to put it together when you get it, but I'm certainly far from there. I just got my first road bike 2 months ago - the LBS helped me narrow down my choices and refine my fit. I have been trying several different stem lengths and different reach handlebars - all at no extra cost - to resolve fit issues. I get free tune-ups. Try all that with an online sale. :p

I took my bikesdirect bike to the LBS and they were more than happy to fine tune it for me. I got the check out and tune done, and had them mount a Sigma 906 on it for me all for $75. I'm pretty happy with them.

A good bike shop will service bikes they don't sell with a smile. They're probably making more from the service and aftermarket parts anyway.

I am loyal to TOGA Bikes of Nyack. I have never had a bad experience there and there is no hard sell. They have three stores in NYC which are pretty cool and they are TOGA and GOTHAM. I have been properly fitted on all my bikes and they have been courteous to a fault. Mind you that I am an over 300 lb. clyde!

They tuned up and checked both of my Bianchi bikes which I bought elsewhere. I was never made to feel uncomfortable even though Bianchi is one of the brands they sell. They are seriously Clydesdale friendly! I don't work there so I am being straight up!:D I also am a big fan of their road side assistance plan if you break diown within a certain radius of the store they come get you!

No snobs at TOGA!! http://togabikes.com/index.cfm

I went into a small bike shop near my home town to buy a shifter cable, and the guy tried to sell me some proprietary brand of cable that would have cost me $60 for a package telling me all the reasons why he was sure I didn't want to risk trying to put the wrong kind of cable into the break levers on my $300 bike...
I tried again, explaining I just needed standard break cables, he was very insistant on this proprietary model, and was sure I would destroy my bike if I didnt buy it. I rolled my eyes and left the store. I was about 210 lbs at the time, and just getting into cycling, but I knew any kind of cable should not cost me more than $5.
I have since lost weight (down to 184! in just 3 months) and I find the more in shape I get, the better reception I get from a LBS. Its a shame how judgmental people can be, especially in the cycling community.

My local Trek dealer has always treated me like crap, I luckily found another LBS that treats me like I'm one of their good old friends. The unfortunate thing is that in my daily business the Trek shop is very convenient and the other shop is way out of my way. I stopped in to browse at the Trek shop yesterday and there was a new guy working and being trained on how to answer the phone etc. A lady came in wanting a bike and knew nothing, she'd never bought one before. The guys replies to her questions were very lacking but I chalk it up to a lack of experience on his part. I talked with her a bit and helped her pick out the bike that suits/fits her best and she bought it on the spot. After that I talked to the owner/mechanic about some parts I wanted to get and the prices seemed to fall quite a bit and he was real nice to me.

It's sad that I had to help them sell a bike in order to get respect, IMHO bike shops should be one of the few places left that anyone can walk in to and feel welcome.

I have tried to post on this thread about 4 times now, and have deleted my posts each time. This time I will post it, but it will be very short. I have had mutliple bad experiences with TREK dealers in multiple states and will not say it is every Trek dealer, because there are a few small dealers that seem to care, but why does everyone seem to need or want a Trek bike. Is it all because of Lance? I think that is a large part of it, but it was the LBS that sold me a bike, not the name. I thought I wanted a Trek, but bought Jamis because the LBS treated me decent and the Trek dealers were anything but decent. I don't think there is a problem with the Trek bicycle, I think it is the dealer that makes the difference, and it might be because the corporate policy is driving the smaller dealers out of business because of corporate requirements. I don't know, but I will probably never buy a Trek because of the very poor business practices of the stores selling the bikes. I don't live in Jackson, TN or LaGrange, GA, but both of those Trek dealers would be the only two of the twenty Trek stores that I would buy anything in, and only one of those would be a bike the other would only be parts for my Jamis bike.

I tried again, explaining I just needed standard break cables, he was very insistant on this proprietary model, and was sure I would destroy my bike if I didnt buy it.

I've heard that routine at a couple of the shops in Redmond. (I won't mention names, except to say it wasn't SVC.) "Oh, you should definitely get the Brand X cables over the bulk cabling off the spool. They're smoother shifting and lower maintenance, with sealed ferrules and lined housings."

... yep, I'm almost certain that grimy $11 Tourney derailleur is going to feel just like a brand new XTR with those $40 cables. I ran pay-by-the-foot Shimano bulk cut cable on my old Stumpjumper for all 18 years I owned it and I never had any problems. I also never had anyone try to talk me into expensive stuff I didn't need, but maybe that's because a) I knew what I was talking about, or b) my bike looked like I stole it from a homeless circus clown, so they assumed I couldn't afford anything expensive.

My mechanic and Lennard Zinn both said the same thing about needing brand specific cables: You need Campy cables for Campy shifters. Then the mechanic told me the cost and I ordered them online for $20-$30 less and installed them myself. But I still like my mechanic and my LBS even though I don't spend huge amounts of money in there.

Being new "back in the game" I've hit the LBS in the Milwaukee area here. The big local LBS chain here is dropping Giant because, as one of the guys said "Trek made us a killer offer to be more exclusive". I found a LBS just outside the city proper and the guy has been nothing but helpful. I'll buy my roadbike there this fall (he's earned my business) once I lose some weight and beat the hell out of this older Trek I bought.

Being new "back in the game" I've hit the LBS in the Milwaukee area here. The big local LBS chain here is dropping Giant because, as one of the guys said "Trek made us a killer offer to be more exclusive".

I was wondering about that kind of thing. Too bad, because they are going to lose more people with attitudes like that. Maybe they will buy everyone, and we will just have to buy Trek no matter what or buy custom.

Living in Phoenix gives me access to a multitude of bike shops that are usually no more than 15 minutes away. You would think I would have tons of places that I could go but unfortunatly not. In the course of 2 days I went to 6 different bike shops trying to find myself a low end road bike that I thought might be what I wanted. The first shop i set foot in asked me what they could help me with and when i told them I wanted to figure out what size bike i needed and start looking the guy immediately asked me how many miles a week I planned to ride it. Once I told him he went into a hard sell on a bike that was way out of my price range and waaaay more than I needed for the miles i told him. I walked out pretty quickly. The next bike shop I went to was respectful of my price range but kept trying to put me on a bike that felt way too big and uncomfortable even though the bike they were putting me on was already sold and the smaller one that fit me better was not sold.

One store seemed completly uninterested in selling me anything though their other location was marginally more helpful. The other two stores didn't have anything in my size and really wanted to put me on larger bikes than I was comfortable on.

FINALLY, I showed up at one last LBS tired of the crap and hoping that these people wouldn't lie to me. They immediately put me on the bike I was looking at and then decided that I needed the next size smaller. I was looking at a low end trek road bike in the $700 range and instead of lying to me and telling me I had to jump up several models the salesman told me that the low end bike is fine but that I may have to replace or upgrade components in the future.They made me sit on the bike and sized me to it knowing that i had no interest in buying or test riding that day. He then went to the trouble to talk to me for half an hour about what you can do to make the ride more comfortable adjustment wise and how the smaller bike would really be better for me because my torso is shorter. I walked out of that shop pretty well knowing where I would be buying my bike. I went back the next day to test ride it. The following week I walked in and purchased the bike a computer, pump and tube from them. The never once acted snobby or like my business didn't matter and it got them the sale. I'm soo glad that I didn't assume that all of the shops would be the same way because I ended up feeling a lot more confident about my purchase and my future cycling needs.

yeah, what bill bass (closet clydesdale) says:

it's true for most specialty shops (biking, music stores, camping, climbing gear etc.......) they're staffed by enthusiasts or semi-pros or posers who need to make you feel inferior with their snobbery that they are knowledgeable and competent and their 'expertise' is far beyond your simple needs! They're jerks and losing their owners money! I love messing with those kids when I go into a shop like that . I'm old, fat, but have worked in bike shops off and on for 30 years. I've logged thousands of miles a year, can lace wheels like a pro, and have seen every bad idea in cycling from chiorda and viscount to huffy. I've forgotten more than they know and I love playing 'stump the chump'..... o.k.... I'm a little passive agressive....

The bike business is paid for with family and recreational bikers, yet people who work in too many shops only want to make the big sale for the carbon fiber campagnologruppo wing bling mummajabba bike (of which they will sell 3 or 4 all season.......as opposed to 200 low-moderate priced bikes in the same season......

I will ALWAYS pay a little extra to the shop who treats me respectfully, and stands by their product without a lot of crapola, nickel and diming, and up-selling.

lastly: there are two major shops on my end of the cape: One is the TREK dealer and they act like the above snobbish types. The other focuses on the family business, rentals, and good service: The Trek dealer is withering on the vine IMHO, while the family business is expanding by leaps and bounds (and selling their share of boutique bikes as well....)

In billbass'es end of the cape, his bike shops are all crappy!

Karl

It was actually a funny discussion. The guy who I was workign with at the store said "Yea, so I heard about this trek thing, got my mountain bike magazine with all the new bikes and review and top 10's, and Trek had none in there and Giant had like 4.