I am certain that the 2004 stock build model is the same as the 2003 based on the "Surly2004.pdf" catalog I have seen. I have no idea what is going on at the LBS.

I came in asking what cross bikes they had in stock. None, but they suggested I get a cannondale T800 as it would be "better for dirt roads and commuting."

I did ask if they could order a stock build Surly, sure they said and brought out the Surly parent company catelog (UCI or something like that) and sure enough the red stock build was pictured and the standard specs I am familiar with listed. I asked how much it would be, they said they could get it in 3-4 days and went to the back room, came out and said $1799. I said they must be a mistake as I am sure the cost is quite a bit lower. They went back to the back and came out with $1499. I said I expect and understand that the price will be higher than I see on-line (which I then told them was $800-900) but I didn't expect such a large difference. They then explained that the stock build in the catelog was the 2003 model and that the 2004 model is much better with 105 components, better headset, better seat post, etc. I asked if I could see what exact components they were and I didn't get a clear answer.

So I walked away disapointed, I would be willing to pay quite a markup for local service, but I wasn't getting a good feeling. On the way to a different LBS I went to a different branch of the same LBS and explained that I didn't want to waste their time as I already asked the other store about ordering a stock cross check. They no problem and looked it up and said that it was $1300-1400 and also said it comes with 105 components. Hmmm..

So I guess this particular store must have some 'standard' build with 105 components recommended in a pricing catelog (that was what the both the first and second store were looking at and I assume it was a pricing catelog as they were very careful to make sure I didn't see it)

Anyway the 3 other LBS I visited didn't have any cross bikes, nor could they order any (canondale, lemond, bianchi, kona, etc.). Two of the three pushed me hard to get a Trek1500 road bike on sale to clear out for the 2005s. I think I may unforunately need to to my shopping on line.

Al