I guess part of the problem is that those old fashioned small bike shops are pretty much gone from Dallas. One of the best shops became a big local chain. They are the one I went to today. There are a couple boutique shops, but they carry a brand or two and limited clothing/parts/nutrition.

The shop where I bought the Defy is a decent shop and they earned my business with the way they handled getting my new bike set up after the initial fiasco. Their mechs are top notch. So I have a shop.

My attitude is mostly about my stop today. The shop carries Trek and Cervelo which are bikes I would consider. First impressions make a difference in retail and this local chain has failed to impress. I've been riding real road bikes for about 35 years. I know about gearing, geometry, frame materials and my riding style. The guy today seemed to assume that I knew very little about bikes and when I asked somewhat technical questions, he had no real answer. I may have to go to Fort Worth if I want to test a Trek or Cervelo. My old shop is still there and carries them.