Road Cycling - LBS Obsession ?

I know this thread will make some of you dislike me, But this is what I see and what I think.
After reading threads and posts, I am curious why there is such a huge obsession about LBS?
I mean I go to my LBS (a couple of them) But to buy parts, gear, tune ups or get local race or tour info.
I dont understand how or why people are so obsessed with their LBS.
Some threads stated they would like to see more chairs, coffee and magazines, some state its like a local hang out. Excuse me, but I would rather be riding than I would be sitting and having coffee and reading a mag. If thats what I wanted I would ride my bike to the book store and have a chair, cup of java and find a book to read about cycling.
And about buying online or in the LBS, come on, everyone here knows that LBS has a big mark up on new bikes and half the time the LBS has to order your new bike so you have to wait for it anyways either way . I have been (past tense) a salesman, from cemetary to yes bicycles and I know what is expected from the sales people at you LBS, and if they have you so fooled that they are your buddy I wonder how much was spent on that precious roadie. I dont think I am the only one that knows this, so please someone explain this obsession.
Forgive me, but I just dont get it.
Ride safe to those of you that do ride, enjoy your soft chair, cup of coffee and mag at your LBS to those that choose to read about it instead of do it.

I would say im obessed with the LBS, i go to 3 of them but im just obessed because they have awesome stuff!

I agree and disagree. I feel that to much time in a local bike shop is just money being wasted. the more time you spend in a bike shop the more dumb useless stuff will be bought. I am good friends with the owner of a local shop and he will do anything to make a sale, and he is good at it, believe me. But also this local bike shop is a great spot where everyone meets for group rides, races, etc. This bike shop does alot for the community for the kids, charity, etc. so that is why I buy from there. I try to avoid the place as much as possible. I would never buy a bike online just because I the local bike shops usually do free tune ups, free part repairs, etc. And the prices are not to much higher than they are online. BUT ALSO NOT ALL LBS ARE THE SAME

I agree and disagree. I feel that to much time in a local bike shop is just money being wasted. the more time you spend in a bike shop the more dumb useless stuff will be bought. I am good friends with the owner of a local shop and he will do anything to make a sale, and he is good at it, believe me. But also this local bike shop is a great spot where everyone meets for group rides, races, etc. This bike shop does alot for the community for the kids, charity, etc. so that is why I buy from there. I try to avoid the place as much as possible. I would never buy a bike online just because I the local bike shops usually do free tune ups, free part repairs, etc. And the prices are not to much higher than they are online. BUT ALSO NOT ALL LBS ARE THE SAME
I agree and disagree also, i like going to the stores, browsing for new cool stuff, but i find more serious riders to ride with along the trails in the parking area or along the rout. i do go to lbs for info on upcoming rides or entry forms etc, and I have bought several bikes from online, in perfect condition, since I take care of my equipment I do have to go to the lbs for a tune up as anyone who buys a bikle from a lbs would have to do, and about warrenty, never needed one here.. thanks for your input

I would say im obessed with the LBS, i go to 3 of them but im just obessed because they have awesome stuff!
agreed about the cool stuff, i do that to, but do you go and talk about cycling instead of riding, sit around the lbs drink coffee and use the lbs as a hang out? thats the obsession i am talking about, the one where the lbs can do no wrong

I would say im obessed with the LBS, i go to 3 of them but im just obessed because they have awesome stuff!
BTW thats not an obsession, thats normal :D

You'd be surpised at what you learn by hanging around your LBS and just shooting the **** with your riding buddies. You may even fund that sweet spot in your spin.

You'd be surpised at what you learn by hanging around your LBS and just shooting the **** with your riding buddies. You may even fund that sweet spot in your spin.
I ask questions when i go there if I have questions, I can also get answers to questions and find friends here, I can also talk to my buddies while riding, why han out with a bunch of sales people who dont really know as much as they think they do. Guys in this forum know more than them.
I dont go to a lbs to hang out, i would rather be riding instead of talking about it.
If thats what the obsession is then maybe I should open a coffee shop just for cyclists or wanna be cyclists that just want to shoot the #*%@. :D
Thanks for your input but I still dont see anything special about lbs

I find the prices at one of my lbs to be reasonable. I will pay more for a part I can get the day I want it rather than wait and pay shipping on one that comes from the www. Plus something goes wrong? just a short ride to the lbs takes care of it. It's not an obsession it just makes sense. btw I bought my frame and groupset from an on line place b/c my lbs did not carry what I wanted for said price range so what ever? I may be lucky but my lbs is a true pro shop where I can go into for any given reason and get tons of info and learn a lot. They know they get there profits from a different costomer but they really cater to the enthusiasts. They are all riders and encourage there clientel to be the same. They don't sell coffee either. To be honest I don't see the connection. I meen I like coffee but not on the road, know what I mean?

Now thats just one of my lbs. bianchi_rider. Yesterday I went into another one that I have dredded for so long but said what the hell I'm in the neighborhood and my girlfriend wants a CX bike. So I go in and ask about one and this kid pulls out a Fuji catalog and starts talkin about a Fuji Cross and then says they also have a ' bian-chee' model. I'm like huh? ok I get it you have know idea what your talkin about. I am building a fixie at the moment too and since this lbs acts as the local bike junkyard and I am tryin to keep this bike cheep I figured I would go in there and ask about used fixed hubs and the guy looked at me like I was nuts. Moral of the story: If you have a good lbs use it. It's not an obsession it just makes sense.

I like the LBS because:

a) I can walk in there, ask em for a bunch of tools and fix up my bike no questions asked. If I'm having problems and I walk into a hardware store (at least around here), they won't be so easy to help me out.
b) I can test products before I buy em.
c) If I need a new seat, I can go there, try em out, and snag one for $25. Online, I find the same seat for $10 off and end up paying $10 shipping.
d) I won't sit down and have coffee but when I go down to best buy, staples, starbucks (where people do hang out), walmart, you name it, they don't come up and say, "hey man, how's everything going? how's that bike treating you? there's gonna be a ride on tuesday, you going?"

I like online because:
a) I can get a $2500 laptop for $2000, $1500 if I look on ebay.

The LBS is kind of like the NY Yankees bar, everyone there shares a common interest and the reason why it's there is because of a certain social property that's absent elsewhere.

And about buying online or in the LBS, come on, everyone here knows that LBS has a big mark up on new bikes and half the time the LBS has to order your new bike so you have to wait for it anyways either way . I have been (past tense) a salesman, from cemetary to yes bicycles and I know what is expected from the sales people at you LBS, and if they have you so fooled that they are your buddy I wonder how much was spent on that precious roadie.
You might want to check that opening statement-it's actually pretty common knowledge that shops don't make their money on new bike sales; I'd assume you would have known that with your experieince. What bikes were you selling that had such a high margin? Please let me know so I can look into changing the lines our shop carries.
I'm lucky to get a 35 margin (gross) on a Bianchi (not an atypical margin; some are a bit better, others are worse). Add in costs associated with assembly time, sales/fitting time, any swaps the customer might desire, frieght (not exactly inexpensive, particularly if I have to special order a bike), and follow-up service and the net margin isn't so hot.

Talk is cheap. Show me the money.

You might want to check that opening statement-it's actually pretty common knowledge that shops don't make their money on new bike sales; I'd assume you would have known that with your experieince. What bikes were you selling that had such a high margin? Please let me know so I can look into changing the lines our shop carries.
I'm lucky to get a 35 margin (gross) on a Bianchi (not an atypical margin; some are a bit better, others are worse). Add in costs associated with assembly time, sales/fitting time, any swaps the customer might desire, frieght (not exactly inexpensive, particularly if I have to special order a bike), and follow-up service and the net margin isn't so hot.

Thanks...I was thinking exactly the same thing.

And most of the time people think that a $300 hybrid is all the money in the world. They come from Walmart after having looked at a Schwinn or a Mongoose and you end up spending a half hour explaining frame quality..they buy a $300 bike and you've spent an hour doing it. You'd think they were buying a Mercedes.

We had a guy in yesterday who was interested in a Garneau time trial helmet. We don't stock them since we maybe get 4-5 requests a year, so we just special order them. He says, "Oh, I didn't want to buy one, I just wanted you to fit me." Internet shopper. The guy that waited on him says, "Well, we'd be happy to do a helmet fitting for you. It will be $25 for that service." You should have seen the look on his face. We are still laughing.

I also love the guys that come in for a "fitting" when they have no clue how big a frame they need, but you know they've been on ebay and want that "free" service. I tell them that fitting is the last thing I do after we have selected a bike or two, then I'll do the fitting and we can test them to ensure the fit is correct. "When you are ready to make a purchase from us, we will fit you for the bike you want." Or they can do a full fitting for $150, half price if they buy the bike from us.

Or the "expert" who comes in with his buddy who wants a bike. The "expert" has the buddy snowed into thinking he knows all there is to know about bikes. These are the best.

Or the guy who came in all the time, never bought. Finally buys a bike from me. I am talking to him, picked a bike, measured him and asked him what he was currently riding. Litespeed. I ask what size it was and he tells me it's a 54...he needs a 56...paid $3,500 off the net becasue he thought he knew his size for this thermonuclear bike and he has all kinds of pain and agnoy riding the bike. Bought a Trek 5500.

People are amazing.

You might want to check that opening statement-it's actually pretty common knowledge that shops don't make their money on new bike sales; I'd assume you would have known that with your experieince. What bikes were you selling that had such a high margin? Please let me know so I can look into changing the lines our shop carries.
I'm lucky to get a 35 margin (gross) on a Bianchi (not an atypical margin; some are a bit better, others are worse). Add in costs associated with assembly time, sales/fitting time, any swaps the customer might desire, frieght (not exactly inexpensive, particularly if I have to special order a bike), and follow-up service and the net margin isn't so hot.
You still arent explaining what the obsession is. Not to mention you either own or work in a shop, I would expect you to talk about the good points.
you ask what bikes I sold, that has no bearing on this question, but I sold cannondale, trek and le mond. Now mind you this was several years back but the mark up on the bikes was very considerable.
I am still getting the same answers about ahh they have good mercendise, I always take my bike there for tune ups and so on and so on...
I am talking about threads I read , one a guy was asking what people would want if he opened a shop, and people said chairs, magazines, coffee, etc. and then I can read numerous threads and all i hear about is my lbs does this and does that.. I would love to go and check out these lbs that everyone brags about and see if this is really true.
I am not downing the lbs, they are there for a reason, just like the gas station is and the grocery store is and tool store and so on. all I want is an upright answer and no one can seem to give it to me, what is the obsession?
thanks for your input, good luck with your shop. hope its all that you make it out to be ( I mean that sincerely, I am not being truculant)

Thanks...I was thinking exactly the same thing.

And most of the time people think that a $300 hybrid is all the money in the world. They come from Walmart after having looked at a Schwinn or a Mongoose and you end up spending a half hour explaining frame quality..they buy a $300 bike and you've spent an hour doing it. You'd think they were buying a Mercedes.

We had a guy in yesterday who was interested in a Garneau time trial helmet. We don't stock them since we maybe get 4-5 requests a year, so we just special order them. He says, "Oh, I didn't want to buy one, I just wanted you to fit me." Internet shopper. The guy that waited on him says, "Well, we'd be happy to do a helmet fitting for you. It will be $25 for that service." You should have seen the look on his face. We are still laughing.

I also love the guys that come in for a "fitting" when they have no clue how big a frame they need, but you know they've been on ebay and want that "free" service. I tell them that fitting is the last thing I do after we have selected a bike or two, then I'll do the fitting and we can test them to ensure the fit is correct. "When you are ready to make a purchase from us, we will fit you for the bike you want." Or they can do a full fitting for $150, half price if they buy the bike from us.

Or the "expert" who comes in with his buddy who wants a bike. The "expert" has the buddy snowed into thinking he knows all there is to know about bikes. These are the best.

Or the guy who came in all the time, never bought. Finally buys a bike from me. I am talking to him, picked a bike, measured him and asked him what he was currently riding. Litespeed. I ask what size it was and he tells me it's a 54...he needs a 56...paid $3,500 off the net becasue he thought he knew his size for this thermonuclear bike and he has all kinds of pain and agnoy riding the bike. Bought a Trek 5500.

People are amazing.
Another bike shop employee or owner, very biased...
I already know what customers are like in, I deal with them every day, but you arent answering my question.
Hmmmmm wonder if anyone will give me the answer, i figured I would have a lot more replies to this one.. I must have made someone stop and think, either that or you guys are being kind and not saying anything, come on let me know what this obsession is, please.....
You own a ford truck, do you hang out at the ford dealership???
your car needs a tune up, do you hang out at the garage???
I mean if women are obsessed with shopping, what do they do? (they shop, they dont just talk about it)
if a guy is obsessed with eating what does he do??? ( he eats, he doesnt go somewhere to talk to his buds about it)
so explain why all the hard core cyclist go to the lbs, and want chairs, coffee and mags, and donuts, instead of riding???

I find the prices at one of my lbs to be reasonable. I will pay more for a part I can get the day I want it rather than wait and pay shipping on one that comes from the www. Plus something goes wrong? just a short ride to the lbs takes care of it. It's not an obsession it just makes sense. btw I bought my frame and groupset from an on line place b/c my lbs did not carry what I wanted for said price range so what ever? I may be lucky but my lbs is a true pro shop where I can go into for any given reason and get tons of info and learn a lot. They know they get there profits from a different costomer but they really cater to the enthusiasts. They are all riders and encourage there clientel to be the same. They don't sell coffee either. To be honest I don't see the connection. I meen I like coffee but not on the road, know what I mean?

Now thats just one of my lbs. bianchi_rider. Yesterday I went into another one that I have dredded for so long but said what the hell I'm in the neighborhood and my girlfriend wants a CX bike. So I go in and ask about one and this kid pulls out a Fuji catalog and starts talkin about a Fuji Cross and then says they also have a ' bian-chee' model. I'm like huh? ok I get it you have know idea what your talkin about. I am building a fixie at the moment too and since this lbs acts as the local bike junkyard and I am tryin to keep this bike cheep I figured I would go in there and ask about used fixed hubs and the guy looked at me like I was nuts. Moral of the story: If you have a good lbs use it. It's not an obsession it just makes sense.
No arguement about if you have a good lbs use it, I agree with you, we all have cycling needs. I am looking for quality products at the best price, and if its something i need right now I do buy it from my lbs, but I can get my jerseys, bibs etc on ebay "brand new" for half the cost of my lbs. same goes for some parts, and in most cases the warrenty is included on the new items.
My question or points are why do people think their lbs is the best, why do they hang out there? I just think war stories and talking about riding and such should be done in forums or bars or coffee shops. I have been in so many shops and if you arent showing interest in buying a bike then they just walk away as if you arent there.
Thanks for your input, good luck on you build, bet its going to be sweet when you finish, even if its not a bianchi :D

We all know how obsessed you are with the Bianchi brand. Well, I don't really understand where that comes from. Clearly you can see how some people just like what they like, whether it's a brand of merchandise or a vendor. Our species is weird that way.

-mark

I have found that 60% of "riders" like to look at and talk about their bikes more than ride them.

We all know how obsessed you are with the Bianchi brand. Well, I don't really understand where that comes from. Clearly you can see how some people just like what they like, whether it's a brand of merchandise or a vendor. Our species is weird that way.

-mark
Thanks Mark
Some people like trek, some like giant, I like bianchi, but I do not go to the bianchi dealer and waste time talking about them, I would rather be riding it....
And when i tell people to buy a bianchi in a forum I am just kidding as i know they already have a brand of choice, most are good bikes, but I prefer bianchi, not because they are better than trek or giant or cannondale, but because its what i prefer.

I have found that 60% of "riders" like to look at and talk about their bikes more than ride them.
THANK YOU !!!!!!!!!!!! :D
Now some light is being shed. I appreciate that feltup, at least now I am getting an idea, I think thats what i have been saying, why talk about it when you could be riding.. man I am in the wrong business, I need to open a cycling only coffee shop...
Thanks again Feltup :D

I'm puzzled by your seeming obsession with finding others to validate your opinion. Do you have some bone to pick with people who enjoy hanging around a shop that caters to their passion while they talk with like minded folk?

Personally, I support a LBS because I want them to be there when I need face to face help and because I like the people that work there. I don't have the time to spend there shooting the breeze, but I really don't care that some people do.

Paul

I might shop in a local bike store, maybe twice a year? Not even sure if its that much. If I unexpectedly need a part, and don't want to wait the 3-5 business days for it to come from the internet mart, I'll check an LBS to see if they've got it and how much. If they're high, I'll wait the 3-5 business days. If they're ballpark (within 10% or so) I'll give them my business. If I were in the market for a bicycle I'd probably take a look at what they've got. Its hard to test ride over the internet. But even then, I've seen a lot of fine looking frames on internet sites that I wouldn't mind building. So, I really don't know if I'd even go to an LBS if I were looking for a new ride.

But, not everone wants to get dirty working on their bikes. Some people just don't enjoy wrenching. That's fine. In that case, a person doesn't have much choice but to do their biking business with a local store.

I've only purchased one new bike, the rest I've bought used. I support LBS's if I need (want actually) a part right away. I tried supporting my LBS by taking my bike there for service, but they botched 2 out of 3 jobs. So.... I go to other LBSs for parts and I'm buying (or making) the tools for headset work.

I don't hang out a the LBSs since none of them around here have seats, coffee, or time to hang out. And I don't necesarily have time myself to just hang around. If I'm not working or being with my family, I'm riding.

I have found that 60% of "riders" like to look at and talk about their bikes more than ride them.

Amen!

It's all about constantly upgrading your bike rather than actually riding.

I'm puzzled by your seeming obsession with finding others to validate your opinion. Do you have some bone to pick with people who enjoy hanging around a shop that caters to their passion while they talk with like minded folk?

Personally, I support a LBS because I want them to be there when I need face to face help and because I like the people that work there. I don't have the time to spend there shooting the breeze, but I really don't care that some people do.

Paul
I am not trying to validate anyones opinion, we all have an opinion or two. I just dont see what the big deal is, as its been said most guys go in and talk, well i am a firm beleiver in if you talk the talk, then walk the walk. why hang out and tell stories about how good this lbs is when all they do is sit and talk. I mean there was a post a while back the guy asked what would be better, ebay or lbs, I agree that the lbs has its good points, but heck why not save a buck or two if you can, especially if you are not sure you will enjoy the sport, The lbs "IF" its as good as its cut out to be wouldnt mind helping someone that is just looking with size and so on , in hopes of a future customer, wheather the bike was bought at that lbs or not. like I said I am not anti lbs, but I dont see what the obsession is. there are places to ride where people can meet and talk, every sunday there is an organized ride somewhere, thats a great place, and not to mention they can ride while getting to know info or get to know someone, make friends etc.
I go to the lbs for just a few reasons, and they are to look at new things, (wish list) and to buy things I may need and cant wait for. I just dont see it as a hang out and dont see what the obsession is, as one preson wrote in this thread 60% talk about it, I just think forums and other places are the place to talk and brag and tell war stories, the lbs is a business, they are there to make a living, if it was a hang out someone should open a bike shop/coffee shop and have wifi internet so guys could sit and talk about it online instead of riding, after all dont cyclist buy good bikes and groupos always upgrading so they can ride, or is it they want to go to the lbs and just talk?
sorry if I offended you, but I take cycling to heart and think cyclist should ride their sweet bikes and not go to a lbs and lie or brag about things then tell someone who wants info how great their lbs is when they have only bought a tube in the last year from the lbs but spend hours at the lbs talking, doesnt make sence, thats why i want to know what the obsession is, maybe I am missing something.

Amen!

It's all about constantly upgrading your bike rather than actually riding.
I need to get me a Titanium seat post bolt :D

Cant they make Titanium cables too? Hey I know I'll Dirve down to my lbs pick up a copy ov Velo News cause thats what all the racers get and ask :D

Amen!

It's all about constantly upgrading your bike rather than actually riding.
Thanks Leggard :D

I have found that 60% of "riders" like to look at and talk about their bikes more than ride them.

bianchi-rider,

Why didn't you just say this in the beginning? It seems like what you wanted to say, but were waiting for someone else to say it.

I understand what you are saying, but I'm not sure I agree with the premise. I like to stop by my LBS to say "Hi" once or twice a week on my ride home from work. I am very conscious of, and avoid, getting in the way or taking up their time. I definitely do not camp out there or hang out getting in the way. I see other people come in for a quick chat, but not many hang out for any length of time, and most are there to buy something or get a bike worked on. You seem to suggest that everyone who hangs out at an LBS doesn't ride much. The people I see, I know ride a lot, but no one rides 24 hours a day. I commute, riding about 22 miles round trip every day plus often a brisk group ride from 40-60 miles on Sat or Sun. Not as much as a lot of people but more than most people. I guess the attraction of hanging out is getting to talk about your passion with people who understand it, hopefully not monopolizing the shop guys' time but perhaps running into other cyclists to chat. I enjoy smoking good cigars. There are a couple of places I only get to very rarely that I love to hang out for an afternoon comparing opinions with others there and generally enjoying great company. Same concept, different obsession.

When I need something I can get through my LBS I do, but I buy some stuff online, too. Small oddball things I know they will have to special order, for instance, I buy online because there isn't enough profit in it to bother the LBS. I try to buy most stuff through my LBS. The give me a discount on most things that makes the prices close to online, but I would buy from them even if they didn't. Why? Because over the years I have gotten to be friends with most of the people there. I like to give my friends business. Unlike most people who seem comfortable with nickel and diming everyone and especially expect friends to sell to them at cost, I specifically do NOT want my friends to give me special discounts and feel uncomfortable when they insist.

Now let's talk about your obsession with the LBS obsession. :D

You might want to check that opening statement-it's actually pretty common knowledge that shops don't make their money on new bike sales

Bull$hit!!! Most people walk into an LBS and pay what is on the price tag. They feel good when the customary water bottle and cage is thrown in. On the bike I just purchased there was at least $200 to play with on the price. I called every Litespeed dealer in the LA area. The shops varied by $200 on the price just on a quick phone call. So, for most buyers, there was $200 in it right there. AND there was still no way that they GAVE me the bike with the $200 off. Yes, whole bikes are not where the big profit is. But there is still profit in them.

I do like going to the LBS just to actually look at the goodies. It is also great if you need something now. Even though I have yet to really find that exact matching spoke I am looking for..... I do buy local if they have what I need at a competative price. I buy online if I can save a significant amount.

As far as hanging out there. Well, I guess that is one pack you can't get dropped from.

On a truer note. The amount of incompetance I find in LBS employees is staggering. Obviously around here the idea is to open a few stores and then hire whomever will work for minimum wage. I think the training program consists of. "Bikes over there, clothes over there. Sell what we have in stock. Go get 'em."

There are some good ones out there. But, man they are hard to find. I find that by coming here I can get all the advice I need. And there is not the pressure of the person giving the advice trying to make the sale.

I don't socialize much at the LBS, other than to talk about how the bike is working. The LBS owner and his one assistant don't have time for meaningless chit chat. But I can see why someone might enjoy hanging out with like-minded people. You can't be riding 24/7 all year. As to obsession, well, everyone has quirks about how they like to spend their time. If people want to hang out in a friendly LBS like men used to hang out in barbershops, no one is hurt.

I frequent 2-3 shops to "spread the wealth". I will purchase socks/food/ tubes and clothing. For hard to find items I will purchase online and have my most favored shop mechanic do the install. I actually get good info on training from my LBS contacts for most of them either used to race or cyclocross. Good people.

bianchi-rider,

Why didn't you just say this in the beginning? It seems like what you wanted to say, but were waiting for someone else to say it.
Nope, not what i wanted to say, but glad someone else did, now it kind of makes sence to me, Like I said I want to know what the obsession is, i want to know what it is that i am missing, I want to know why some people are so hard up for their lbs...
I just dont understand....
If i had a bike shop I definately wouldnt want a bunch of guys hanging around not buying anything, I also would treat everyone who walked into my store equally, no matter where they are planning on buying their bike, in hopes of them returning as a potential customer.
no matter if its fitting, tune ups or just a tube, i think the lbs should assist in all aspects no matter who you are, what you ride or where you plan on getting it. the coffee shop would be next door...
Sorry If I offended you, but I am trying to make sence of this whole lbs thing.

I understand what you are saying, but I'm not sure I agree with the premise. I like to stop by my LBS to say "Hi" once or twice a week on my ride home from work. I am very conscious of, and avoid, getting in the way or taking up their time. I definitely do not camp out there or hang out getting in the way. I see other people come in for a quick chat, but not many hang out for any length of time, and most are there to buy something or get a bike worked on. You seem to suggest that everyone who hangs out at an LBS doesn't ride much. The people I see, I know ride a lot, but no one rides 24 hours a day. I commute, riding about 22 miles round trip every day plus often a brisk group ride from 40-60 miles on Sat or Sun. Not as much as a lot of people but more than most people. I guess the attraction of hanging out is getting to talk about your passion with people who understand it, hopefully not monopolizing the shop guys' time but perhaps running into other cyclists to chat. I enjoy smoking good cigars. There are a couple of places I only get to very rarely that I love to hang out for an afternoon comparing opinions with others there and generally enjoying great company. Same concept, different obsession.

When I need something I can get through my LBS I do, but I buy some stuff online, too. Small oddball things I know they will have to special order, for instance, I buy online because there isn't enough profit in it to bother the LBS. I try to buy most stuff through my LBS. The give me a discount on most things that makes the prices close to online, but I would buy from them even if they didn't. Why? Because over the years I have gotten to be friends with most of the people there. I like to give my friends business. Unlike most people who seem comfortable with nickel and diming everyone and especially expect friends to sell to them at cost, I specifically do NOT want my friends to give me special discounts and feel uncomfortable when they insist.

Now let's talk about your obsession with the LBS obsession. :D
You dont have an obsession, I understand stopping looking, buying and so on, hell I do the same thing but not on a weekly basis...
okay my obsession about the lbs is:
I read these posts, I look at what they say, I even replied to one today check it out it was in the the thread opening a bike shop or something like that.
someone stated , get munchies, coffeee, more chairs magazines etc...
I am a business owner, and believe me I know about mark ups and taxes and payroll and so on, so I guess my point is I wanted to know why some of these guys talk so much about their lbs, how perfect it is and so on. I just think there are just as good ways to buy a good quality bike and if your lbs isnt going to service it for you then why bother having a lbs, especially for someone who is begining, he gets taken advantage of by the lbs, i have seen it, in fact a guy was talking ebay or lbs, he got his bike at the lbs, no problem, but apparently they didnt even fit the bike for him because in a later post he was asking about seat height and handle bar height and so on, so my obsession is lbs arent all they are cut out to be, maybe I am just trying to open some eyes, maybe even my own if I knew what the lbs obsession is besides sitting in a bike shop and talking, I would rather ride with friends make new friends and talk to them during or even after the ride... dont know if I am making any sence I probably sound like a broken record, but i really think lbs are being made out to be more than they really are..
Thanks for your input, I appreciate it, :D

I really like supporting my local shops, but I have had mixed experiences. There are four of them around me that I have tried.

Two of them are sports stores. These shops are pretty much hit or miss. One of them is a chain ski and skate shop. They have a couple of people in there that know about bikes and they are friendly, but their prices are rediculous, and I am not comparing them to mailorder.

In the second sports store/LBS there are two people in that really know their stuff, and like to tlak cycling and have helped me a lot in learning about the sport. Their prices are high, but not high enough to keep me from buying from them. However, if you get the wrong person in there, you are in a a heap of trouble. Some of the "mechanics" are real butchers. I bought my first road bike from them.

The third LBS is about a 30 minute drive, and they absolutlely know their stuff inside and out. They only sell bikes and parts, but they have little patience for the uninitiated. They pretty much treat you like an idiot if you ask a question. I haven't been back since I tried to buy a bike from them.

The fourth bike shop I have only found recently (unfortunately after I bought my bike). There is a guy that runs it out of his basement. He has a limited selection of bikes (none on the "showroom" floor), but he is a fantastic resource. He has excellent prices (compared to anywhere), and is willing to spend time with you letting you use his tools, his stand, and his skill to learn about bikes. Other than the lust factor of looking at new equipment, the only time I spend in shops is to learn about a sport I am relatively new to (2.5 yrs), and completely obsessed with. Luckily I have found a shop that shares my enthusiasm. Oh yeah, The owner of the fourth shop has also offered to take me along on his group rides.

Bull$hit!!! Most people walk into an LBS and pay what is on the price tag. They feel good when the customary water bottle and cage is thrown in. On the bike I just purchased there was at least $200 to play with on the price. I called every Litespeed dealer in the LA area. The shops varied by $200 on the price just on a quick phone call. So, for most buyers, there was $200 in it right there. AND there was still no way that they GAVE me the bike with the $200 off. Yes, whole bikes are not where the big profit is. But there is still profit in them.
There is a mark up on bikes, think about it, a dealer is not going to buy a bike at price, mark it up 20% and make a 20% profit. he has labor charges to pay his associates, he has overhead, meaning his building rent, electricty, water and so on, not to mention taxes, and what if he has a sale, 10% off, how much is left of the remaing 15% on that bike will go into his pocket, bikes as anything is marked up more than people know and your lbs wont tell you that, but its true, and I hope the complimentery water bottle at least matches, because tho it was free, there is the advertising fees that paid for that bottle, guess it came from the percentage of the mark up also... something to think about.... :rolleyes:
Thanks for your input on both replies, i appreciate it :D

So let's see if I understand some of you correctly (I'm not talking about you at all Bianchi). On the one hand we basically want the LBS to sell us bikes and everything else at or below cost AND we want them to pay employees enough to hire experienced, knowledgable people in their shops so they can advise us what we need so we can go buy it for even less online. Is that about the way we need it to work? I mean it does irritate me to think that a guy pays rent, stocks every part we could need, hires a big staff AND expects us to pay something over his cost AND even expects us to pay LABOR to install something we bought for almost nothing on eBay. What a bunch of jerks those LBS owners are! I don't know about you, but I am ready to boycott the whole lot until I need for them to fix something for me that I screwed up and not charge me for it.

:D
So let's see if I understand some of you correctly (I'm not talking about you at all Bianchi). On the one hand we basically want the LBS to sell us bikes and everything else at or below cost AND we want them to pay employees enough to hire experienced, knowledgable people in their shops so they can advise us what we need so we can go buy it for even less online. Is that about the way we need it to work? I mean it does irritate me to think that a guy pays rent, stocks every part we could need, hires a big staff AND expects us to pay something over his cost AND even expects us to pay LABOR to install something we bought for almost nothing on eBay. What a bunch of jerks those LBS owners are! I don't know about you, but I am ready to boycott the whole lot until I need for them to fix something for me that I screwed up and not charge me for it.
Nope, not at all, but if you read some of the posts in this thread you will see a lbs owner said that there is not a high mark up, I think that may have been a typo on his behalf... As I pointed out all the expenses into running a bike shop, so its a proven that the bikes are marked up, no biggie, its everywhere on everything we buy.
But what i am saying is, "IF" you could buy something a bike, a bib, a jersey, a cassette, a wheel and so on cheaper brand new wouldnt you?
My biggest part of this is I dont understand why the bike shop is such a big deal... like some people said 60% of the riders just talk about their bikes, if thats the case then why brag about the bike shop because apperently they are only using it as a hang out...
I support any professionally run bike shop, I have to go there for my tune ups and such as I have already said. I expect to pay their prices, If I can find it cheaper elsewhere I will buy it there. My problem is not with the LBS in general, other than poor sales staff that have no product knowledge and are only concerned with their paycheck and commission rate. My problem is understanding WHY people insist that the bike shop is the only place you can get what you need, and why some insist its the best place to hang out, as I said shed some light, open a door, enlighten me on what i am missing

Rainman, I agree with parts of what you are saying.

Personal opinion here - It is EXTREMELY RUDE to go into a shop and borrow tools. Tools of the trade are something the shop or mechanic has to buy. If you want to work on your own bike, buy your own tools.

There is no problem with buying a part online and having the bike shop install it. As long as you don't expect them to do it for free. You should be happy to pay the labor charge. If you don't want to pay for labor, see the paragraph above.

Getting a free fitting and then going online to purchase is theft. If you have no intention of buying from the shop either pay for a fitting or get your fitting online (pleanty of calculators out there). I am not talking about a quick "you need about a 56" standover.

The bike shop should make money when they sell a product. However, they have to compete. The mail order places are not giving things away either. Sticking to full MSRP on a higher end bike is crazy. I went to an LBS and got a quote for a new bike and a change to a triple chainring. They quoted me FULL MSRP + full retail for the parts and a labor charge. No credit for the double parts. Talk about gouging. For the $550 differance, I took my business elsewhere.

As far as staff goes. An LBS needs a KNOWLEDGABLE staff. If I had listened to the various people while shopping for a new bike, I would have gotten everything from a 53cm to a 59cm. I more often than not knew more about the bikes than they did. So, I am willing to pay a little more to deal with a knowledgable staff, but not just a bunch of guys that are in there collecting a paycheck.

I went into one shop where they sell big ticket bikes. I was stradled over a nice $2000 bike, talking with the shop owner. I was serious about buying. A guy walks in, that obviously had a very deep wallet, asking about some gloves that he bought last week. The shop owner drops me in mid sentance, and rushes over to this guy like a dog in heat. When I heard them just chatting about 10 minutes later and realized that the guy had totally forgotten about me, I took my measly 2 thousand dollars and walked out. I don't think he noticed.

So, let's get off the holy place, "please have my money" thing that I keep seeing. You should pay a fair price and get fair service. It is a business.

instead of all this complaining, you could be riding!

instead of all this complaining, you could be riding!


:roflmao: :roflmao:

instead of all this complaining, you could be riding!

I can get away with popping out to the forum once in a while at work. But, if I set my trainer up at my desk, I think the boss is going to get upset. :eek:

Rainman, I agree with parts of what you are saying.

Personal opinion here - It is EXTREMELY RUDE to go into a shop and borrow tools. Tools of the trade are something the shop or mechanic has to buy. If you want to work on your own bike, buy your own tools.

There is no problem with buying a part online and having the bike shop install it. As long as you don't expect them to do it for free. You should be happy to pay the labor charge. If you don't want to pay for labor, see the paragraph above.

Getting a free fitting and then going online to purchase is theft. If you have no intention of buying from the shop either pay for a fitting or get your fitting online (pleanty of calculators out there). I am not talking about a quick "you need about a 56" standover.

The bike shop should make money when they sell a product. However, they have to compete. The mail order places are not giving things away either. Sticking to full MSRP on a higher end bike is crazy. I went to an LBS and got a quote for a new bike and a change to a triple chainring. They quoted me FULL MSRP + full retail for the parts and a labor charge. No credit for the double parts. Talk about gouging. For the $550 differance, I took my business elsewhere.

As far as staff goes. An LBS needs a KNOWLEDGABLE staff. If I had listened to the various people while shopping for a new bike, I would have gotten everything from a 53cm to a 59cm. I more often than not knew more about the bikes than they did. So, I am willing to pay a little more to deal with a knowledgable staff, but not just a bunch of guys that are in there collecting a paycheck.

I went into one shop where they sell big ticket bikes. I was stradled over a nice $2000 bike, talking with the shop owner. I was serious about buying. A guy walks in, that obviously had a very deep wallet, asking about some gloves that he bought last week. The shop owner drops me in mid sentance, and rushes over to this guy like a dog in heat. When I heard them just chatting about 10 minutes later and realized that the guy had totally forgotten about me, I took my measly 2 thousand dollars and walked out. I don't think he noticed.

So, let's get off the holy place, "please have my money" thing that I keep seeing. You should pay a fair price and get fair service. It is a business.


That's a pretty good summation of the whole deal. It takes time to find a "good" shop that will treat you fair and will appreciate you for what you are worth. At the same time you must show them the respect they deserve and be willing to pay a fair price for the goods and services you receive.

It all works out if you have patience and aren't too hard headed. Its like anything else "give and take" ;)

I can get away with popping out to the forum once in a while at work. But, if I set my trainer up at my desk, I think the boss is going to get upset. :eek:

Ahhh... the advantages of working from home...

http://www.neebu.net/~khuon/images/cycling/trainer/Image5.jpg

Of course, when I do have to commute (2 days every week)... it's a plane flight across 2 states without my bike and thus my evenings are filled with staring at the TV in a lonely hotel room.

:roflmao: That is just tooooo funny :roflmao:

LBS? ok I go to the LBS (2 of them now) at least twice a week (on both LBS's). How much time do I spend in the LBS each visit? about 30mins to 1 hr.. And most of the time, I'm not looking to buy something.. We just chat, we are friends..

And because we are "friends", they work on my bike for "free". Although they tend to refuse to get my money, I force them to take it... I know, I'm a businessman myself, in more or less the same situation(computer sales, repair and service)...

On weekends, I ride with the mechanics, LBS owner, and some sales people..

Can't say I am obsessed with a LBS.Coffee. I have not experienced that yet.I am not that obsessed... IT does seem to be sort of a hang out for cyclists..IT sort of is our candy store.No? I have encounted some that sponsored clubs..That would draw avid cyclists who can't find a club.. ..
Just maybe this is good for business...Wonder if LBS like us to hang around.?. We do find other cyclists where we talk bike business.
Do think maybe on one, two ocassions I just might have sold a cycling item for them by my talking about how much I liked a given item..
It is one possible place where we might meet one another, no? But coffee, magazines.I have not expereinced that..

If i had a bike shop I definately wouldnt want a bunch of guys hanging around not buying anything, I also would treat everyone who walked into my store equally, no matter where they are planning on buying their bike, in hopes of them returning as a potential customer.
no matter if its fitting, tune ups or just a tube, i think the lbs should assist in all aspects no matter who you are, what you ride or where you plan on getting it. the coffee shop would be next door...
Sorry If I offended you, but I am trying to make sence of this whole lbs thing.

Tell these guys:
http://www.oneononebike.com/home.php

They're putting a coffee bar and art gallery in their shop. After all, if people aren't in your shop, they aren't buying bikes.

Ahhh... the advantages of working from home...

http://www.neebu.net/~khuon/images/cycling/trainer/Image5.jpg

Of course, when I do have to commute (2 days every week)... it's a plane flight across 2 states without my bike and thus my evenings are filled with staring at the TV in a lonely hotel room.

HAHAHAHA... do you seriously have a mousepad on your bike....?