Businesses have to adapt and change as part of their life cycle. The internet is here and now, there is no avoiding it. A LBS who wants to remain competitive must embrace the net and extend it. I support my LBS in certain ways and use eBay/CL in others.

For instance: my dad was looking to get a new road bike after 25 years on a Schwin. Rather than try to find a bike for him online and guestimate on the sizing/feel, I took him to the LSB and had them spec him out. He is the type of person who would rather buy a bike from a shop where he knows he can get service and not have to worry about the bike from here on out. I support my LBS by giving them business, not always my own - but they do get love.

Today I spent $100 on parts at the LBS instead of the same for $50 shipped from Nashbar. Why? Because I want them to help me out with a build coming up. I lend them a hand, they lend me their's.