Originally Posted by
canklecat
Manufacturer incentives to sales staff (usually hidden from consumers). Some vehicle models are bundled with spiffs or minis for sales staff - either an extra bonus over the usual commission, or a guaranteed minimum commission to promote quick, no-hassle sales.
Never heard of this in the bike world. C'dale gave us baseball caps and work shirts,KHS gave us t-shirts. But those were so we'd wear them and promote the brand. Also doubt many bike shops have their sales staff work on commission.
Originally Posted by
canklecat
How much effort they put into make-ready, setups or whatever goes into the process between pulling the bike out of the carton and putting it onto the floor. Remember that sad but darkly humorous "Yeah, but that True Coat" scene in Fargo? If you know the car biz, that's a classic profit packer ploy. But unlike cars, most bikes don't arrive anywhere set up, adjusted and ready to ride. And the end result depends on the skills of the mechanic.
I just had a newish bike come into my free clinic today. Had not been set up properly. B screw wasn't set,neither V brake was balanced. Doubt the BB or headset had been checked. At my shop,we go pretty much above and beyond. All non-press fit BB's get pulled/greased/taped. Headsets all get greased. We even grease the stem and faceplate bolts. We make certain that everything on the bike is correct and that the buyer won't have future issues. And you'd be amazed at how many brand new bikes come out of the box with issues.