If we strip out some of the personal attacks in this thread and any other one about BD it may actually get interesting. I prefer Italian or German road bikes equipped with Campy so BD will never be on my radar. With that being said, I do recognize their place in the market and have no problem with it. They have a niche and they serve it well. My question is, why do so many people take such a personal afront to BD or Performance? These people act like the companies are crooks. I just do not get it. Do you have the same issue with all on-line retailers? or just bike companies?
I totally understand the need for LBS. I support mine. I have purchased 2 mtbs and many other things from them this year alone. They provide a great service to me and I love them for that. I also buy most of my bike related food and accessories at Performance, which is a few short miles from my office. I purchase many things on line as well. It is convenient, less expensive and I can get what I want. My LBS has very limited choices in clothes and brands. They are a Trek and Giant dealer. I wanted Colnago. Again, I love my LBS but they can't be everything to everybody. Neither can BD. I just do not understand the hate for BD. They are upfront about the bike, what it comes with and what to do when it arrives. I ordered a GT hybrid from them years ago. It actually arrived the very next day. I was floored but I am aware that they are based out of my town and have a distribution center about 25 miles from my house. That bike was put together in about 10 minutes. Put the wheel on, attach the brake cable and put on the handlebars. Simple. I did have to true a wheel but what a great experience. I was looking for a descent and inexpensive hybrid and that is what I paid for and what I got. We have plenty of riders in our "A" group that ride on Trek, Giant and etc. There are also ones that ride on Motobecane. They are all good bikes.