Originally Posted by
scirocco
Find the best price around the state/country and then give the LBS the opportunity to match it. That way you get a discount, the LBS get the sale, and some of the money stays local and helps the economy in your town.
Good advice.
There are bigger bike shops that move greater volume and have more competitors in their urban market; therefore offer cheaper prices. A local bike shop with less competition and less volume usually won't offer the lower price up front. Ask them to match and consider the distance, bicycle servicing, and if you actually like the shop.
Demonstrate interest and willingness to pull the trigger if the price is right, if the salesperson can feel a possible sale pending, they may take a walk to the back to speak with the shop manager and give you the deal you ask. You don't know if you don't try.