Originally Posted by
I-Like-To-Bike
I agree that the ranting and wailing about the aleged deficiencies of department store bikes emanates from those in the "bicycle industry" who often are selling/promoting higher priced bicycles to a more affluent customer population.
I believe fastbartender's response is also an appropriate answer:
I don't think most will see your point here.
Box stores sell many decent, entry level bikes. And, it's very clear most of the negative reviews on sites for the bikes are from LBS's owners/employees deriding the unit for imagined deficiencies.
Now, many of the bikes at box stores are crap. But, there are many quality machines.
I personally can't stand riding in a Benz. Handling is crap
Give me a nice cross over, with command seating.