Bicycle Mechanics - Gear Skipping or Slipping

I just got a new bicycle from the LBS and have had some gear skipping when I try to put power into the pedals and when shifting sometimes... My friend tells me that, its just because that the bike is new and it will settle in... I am just looking for a second opinion.

-thanks-

Your friends only told you half the story. They're probably right in that a new bike's cables will stretch and parts will wear in initially which may throw some things out of adjustment. This is why most bikeshops give you a free 30-day tuneup. I would say that you should bring the bike back in to them after about 100 miles of riding for the post-purchase tuneup.

I just got a new bicycle from the LBS and have had some gear skipping when I try to put power into the pedals and when shifting sometimes... My friend tells me that, its just because that the bike is new and it will settle in... I am just looking for a second opinion.

-thanks-

That may well be the case on a new bike, this however is a normal symptom of a knackered cassette, but unlikely to be the case here! :)

Don't let your friend work on your bike. Your bike should not slip gears just because it's new. The derailer is probably just a bit out of adjustment. Either the LBS didn't get it quite right or the housings have seated themselves a bit tighter in the stops. Take the bike back to the LBS and they should fix you up at no charge. Shouldn't take more than a few minutes and they will probably do it while you wait.

I have the same problem but them again, my bike is 6 years old. I'm taking it to the local bike shop for a tune up and hopefully they will fix these problems.