I just bought a Motobecane Champion CF SRAM and love it...but I'm no expert...

I visited 3 LBSs and received bad advice, incorrect data on their bikes, and prices $1k above what I paid for a similarly equipped CF frame...I may find out one day that my frame isn't as good as a 'real' brand...until then, I ride and enjoy

EDIT: I should also say that IF you have a great LBS that can really help with sizing and picking out the right bike for your needs, AND you can get a closeout or other 'deal', the MUCH preferred path would be to buy local. I, unfortunately, could not get the help I expected from the LBS, so there was no reason to pay the premium for their service.