I'm a computer guy and every now and then I'll hear somebody that such and such isn't working on their computer and they've got Windows 98 or something like that.

My first reaction is: "Windows 98? Your computing life would be so much better with 2000 or XP or OS X". Now I don't actually say that and I know there are people who see no need to spend money on an upgrade, - but that's what I'm thinking.

Part of the problem is that it's been so long since I've used Windows 95 or 98 that I have a hard time troubleshooting those systems. I'm sure that's an issue with the wrenches at an LBS too. A younger mechanic may never have dealt with a cottered crank before (for example).

Anyway, my opinion is that the best approach for an LBS when a customer with an older bike wants some work done is to not immediately recommend a new bike even if they think it's in the customers best interest. Just provide a dollar figure for whatever work the customer wants/needs on their old bike. Once that's done, I don't see anything wrong with saying that repairs on this bike are going to cost $xxx and for that price you could get yourself a much better used bike or get you close to the price of a new bike. That to me is good customer service.

I'd be leary of recommeding anything on CL unless they know what to look for and how to judge whether or not a bike is in good condition.