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Old 06-18-11 | 08:15 PM
  #17  
Hippiebrian
Senior Member
 
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 591
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From: Long Beach, Ca.

Bikes: Raleigh Sojourn, '67 Raleigh Super Course, old Gary Fisher Mamba, and a generic Chinese folder

Let the LBS know you like shopping there, then drop the prices of other shops' gear before you buy. Let them know that as much as you like shopping there, you need to keep the budget manageable. If they can come within a reasonable amount (for me that's within 10% of the price at Performance or elsewhere) buy from them. If they can't, tell them sorry, I like you guys, but I really can't afford the mark-up.

When I bought my Raleigh, I went into my favorite LBS and told them what another shop was asking for a bike that was actually in the shop. The LBS I usually go to would have to order it. They couldn't match the price of the bigger shop, but did get within 10% of it, so they got my business. That 10% bought me excellent service, free adjustments, and a lot of smiling faces whenever I go in! Before you change shops permanently, remember what the little increase is getting you.

While they may have to keep prices reasonable to keep business, I don't expect to spend the same at my LBS that I would on line or at Performance. I will however pay a bit more for the service and to support local jobs.
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