Originally Posted by haimtoeg
This is not unique to Orbea or to the bike industry. Try buying a rolex online from an authorized dealer.
Companies do this to maintain the prospeity of their distribution channels and ensure that their distributors have a decent chance to make a living.
I'd advise you that in light of the significant expenditure involved in your Orca, you develop a decent LBS relationship, get fitted properly and get advice from the people there about cycling. Being new to cycling this can be the best expenditure you made.
+1
I've purchased a 2003 Fuji Team, a 2004 Cervelo Soloist Team, my Orca frameset, and a bunch of other stuff from the same LBS over the years and they do things to keep my business even offering services at no charge. A good LBS relationship is worth the extra cost they sometimes charge.