If he didn't know the difference in tuna and salmon... yeah. Or, if he didn't know if the salmon was fresh caught or farm-raised... yeah.

I'm not saying every bike shop employee should be on the level a pro team mechanic. But not knowing the basic product specs - info on company's website, e.g. geometries, groups, colors, etc. That's just inexcusable. We beat up on car sales guys, but there are fewer features/details on a bike than just the dashboard of a new car. It's not that difficult.

I love how, on one hand we excuse the slackness of SOME bike shops... and then complain that the industry is struggling. Why is the retail/LBS struggling? Because they serve little purpose. The parts are more plentiful and cheaper online. Every city has five different mobile mechanic companies/franchises who'll come to your house. So what's left? Product knowledge? Advice? Consulting on new bikes (geometry/fitting)? Yet, we're okay with salespeople who haven't bothered to learn the brand and shops that don't prioritize training.

For what it's worth, I love my LBS - the guys absolutely know their ****. Every one of them rides, the sales guys are better mechanics that I am (I claim to do 90% of my own wrenching) and their mechanics are just amazing. This shop has survived while lots (most?) in the area have folded.