Patriot

Being compulsive about my bikes, I build and fix my own. Period.

I hope this is a good lesson for anyone who is demanding of a bike shop. You have to expect less than perfect work if you have any kind of maintenance done at the LBS, and never expect any better. They do it to simply get it done, and make a few dollars in the process. If you want top notch mechanical work, join a Pro racing team, that's about the only place you'll find it.

That's the unfortunate reality.

What's more unfortunate, is that alot of people who just aren't mechanically inclined, depend on these shops for alot of their work, and are forced to settle for less than having it done "just right".

If you are extremely compulsive and want perfection, then it 's good to scope out an LBS that has good mechanics, talk to the owner or manager, and get to know them personally. Explain to them your personal needs, and they may be willing to accomede your refined needs. This is of course, if you would be willing to pay extra to ensure better quality work.