Can't disagree re Amazon. Have purchased several items through them to perfect satisfaction. My routine is to purchase several things at once through online stores that either don't charge for shipping or have a 'free-shipping' price point around 50-75.00, usually. My regular haunts are http://www.bikeisland.com http://www.universalcycles.com http://www.bikepartsusa.com along w/performance and nashbar.

Also, I make sure to check ebay and CL just in case someone may be selling the exact item I'm looking for new or slightly used for a huge savings. Found a set of Phil Wood hubs that way.

Btw, I believe Performance purchased Nashbar which would explain the 'watering down'. Or maybe it's the other way around...can't remember. Someone will know here shortly, though.