Originally Posted by
Kuotient
Started working full time at a local shop just over 3 months ago in sales. But I do some work in the back sometimes and build bikes as well. Have definitely learned a few trips and tricks from our mechanics, like knowing how to get the best leverage to loosen/tighten pedals!
Definitely only plan on doing this up to a year or year and a half. Nice way to fuel a hobby with great discounts, but definitely doesn't pay well. Takes away my weekends too, as KonAaron mentioned. Thus is the life of retail.
Good to hear from Kuotient again! Super guy. They should just have him around for celebrity value. I could stock the store with Ironman bikes and he could sign them and sell 'em. He's my hero; cross country on an Ironman.
Very interesting...a busy ADR practice. The manager of the Scottsdale Performance offered me a job as a floor person ....
I can see the sales pitch: "Now, as we split up into separate rooms, you can discuss and decide on a fair price, and I'll visit each of you and see where we're at....." I can relate.
However, when I walk in, the mediator usually starts shaking his head.
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My experience with the LBS was good. I'd walk in, he'd hand me a wrench, and I'd work on whatever bike was on the rack while he sold bikes. An hour later, I'd leave with whatever I came in for, and some old tools. He'd sell me tools at a pittance when he bought new ones. The shop has changed hands, now the customers sometimes call me after they get their bike back, so I can straighten out whatever was done.
My "shop" still runs: free labor, you bring the parts, and no guarantees. Word of mouth only, and if it's a mountain bike, I'll probably just shake my head. I think they hate me.