Webist;

On your LBS observation: “bikes hanging and waiting for maintenance or pickup clearly outnumber the number of new and used bikes on the sales floor” Rest assured this would be a marked exception in the Washington DC Metro area. In fact the bicycle retailer with the largest presence (eight shops) offers “Free Lifetime Service” for original owners (limited to adjustment only, not normal wear).

I spoke with a mechanic at the most respected (top tier) shop in my area and he mentioned that the majority of his time went to prepping new bikes (they are noted for delivering a flawless product). I purchased a part from this shop (owing to convenience and support of their excellent service department) and noted that the part was marked up 2.5 times that of the going “Web” price. However, the mechanic did know the exact part I needed and “got it right the first time.” That’s why they are still in business after twenty years.

As I view it, the difference between commercial automobile and bicycle repair is a bicycle is largely a discretionary purchase, where as the automobile (for better or worse) is considered obligatory. For the most part, I have found those in the bicycle industry tend to be true believers in cycling as a sport &/or wholesome pursuit. I’ve not meet many monetarily focuses mercenaries employed at the LBS level. However, I may be naïve on this, though I trust not.