It depends on the store.

I have two local shops where the salesmen earn commission selling bikes. They can be snobby, insulting department-store riders, making them feel unwelcome (probably so prospective customers aren't exposed to such options.).

The other store is extremely "boutique." Everything is 10% higher just to pay for the store's facade (ambiance). I attended a free "bike clinic" at that store. When I mentioned I bought my bike (aluminum frame, 700 wheels, rear rack) for $99 at Walmart, I could feel the chill. The staff spent more time working one-on-one with the other three attendees who bought their $600-$1200 bikes at the store, leaving me to glean what I could as a bystander.

I don't blame them. I was surprised they invited me in the first place (knowing where I got my bike). I think they assumed it was an ugly mountain bike that would stand out to the high-dollar buyers, and I would stand out as the "lame" guy who can only dream of being a "real" rider someday. When it turned out to be a decent commuter bike (Mongoose Paver) at an incredible price, I think it they went into damage control.

Two other stores, the sales people also work in the shop. They have a broader interest in the entire business (parts, service). They say they make good money from department-store bikes and don't have anything bad to say. ("It depends on the bike and the effort the rider puts into it." "All roads lead to Rome."). They don't have an image to protect.

So, I learned from that. Some stores have their "schtick." It's part of the "experience" people pay for. I take what I can without being disappointed. One store has some good prices on take-off-parts. I drop in and get some good deals. I try to avoid discussions about bikes. When the used-car salesman approaches me, I remind him "I only buy Walmart" and let them glare at me before he schmoozes the next person.