That's why I always stress overhauling department-store bikes. This takes away from their perceived value, making it a more realistic purchase. It drives home how DSB buyers don't get something for nothing. But, it's also an opportunity for the pennywise buyer to learn how to do their own maintenance, saving money they'd have to spend even if they buy a LBS bike.
I do agree. If i didn't have prior experience with
overhauling bikes , I would be very frustrated with this bike. DSB or LBS, all bikes need yearly maintenance. The difference is DSB need the overhauling done the moment your bring the bike home.
I think that's really the distinguishing factor between DSB and local-bike-shop buyers. If someone accepts the added time requirements of a DSB, it probably will be a good value (assuming their time isn't worth a lot, or they just plain enjoy spending their time tinkering with wrenches and grease). If someone just wants to ride a bike without a lot of drama, there's a good chance they'll be disappointed with breakdowns, more frequent spending on LBS maintenance, etc. They should spend more on a LBS bike (or factor in the expense of professional reassembly/adjustment, potential for more frequent maintenance expenses).
As for my DSB, I will need to buy alloy pedals & brake cables (and eventually brake levers). I have invested fair amount of time into it, and I think it's a keeper. If i enjoy Mountain biking, I will definitely save up and purchase a better MTB for around $500 or more (after all, a bike pays for itself by saving on gas). As for the DSB, it can stay as a backup or spare (or something just to tinker). No regret there :-)
I also think the DSBs bring in more work for the LBS. The LBS will not go out of business because of xmart bikes. (The LBS probably makes more money on charging for bicycle maintenance/repair than they do selling bikes). The LBS's in my town gets so backed up during spring/summer, it can take them weeks to even tune your bike, that is assuming they have room in the storage to hold your bike!)
I doubt your limited riding wrecked your overtightened axles. But, if you want to be on the safe side, you could buy replacement bearings from your LBS. (Just in case your limited riding wore the original bearings and their imperfect surface could accelerate wear of the harder-to-replace race surfaces.). You can buy packages of 100 bearings for $3-4 online. Often with free shipping if you coordinate purchases of other things you need.
I have only ridden it 15-20 miles. I doubt any major damage happened, but it probably would have if i hadn't noticed. I do have some 3/16" (front wheel) & 1/4" (rear wheel) bearings in stock. Hopefully the DSB does follow some standards..
Thanks.