Originally Posted by EmmCeeBee
Until someone from Pittsburgh actually chimes in: there's an REI there, if you get in when they're not too busy, their knowledge and helpfulness is almost legendary.
I echo the "sorry you're so frustrated" comment. Too bad your LBS doesn't take you seriously. If you weren't a 2-month ride from here, I'd head over and see if I could help.... Good luck.
-- Mark
this was actually my plan.. i feel kind of bad, cause it seems like the smaller, more local lbs should be the best place to go - but rei has never been anything but great to me!