Originally Posted by supercub

I have no bone to pick with BD, but some of the statements on there website could be viewed as misleading.

"We are blowing these out for Mercier as a special promotional deal"

This implies that Mercier is a separate entity that designed this bike. Is that the case?

"We are an authorized Motobecane USA and national service/warranty center
These bikes are the newest 2009 models being sold at a special introduction price.
They will be on the Motobecane site later this year."

Isn't Motobecane USA just a BD shell? This suggest that BD is merely a distributor and dealer for a separate company, Motobecane USA.

"We scored a super deal on a very small shipment of 2009 Windsor Knights"

Again, this definitely suggests that BD is a middleman for a separate company called Windsor.

The About Us section of the website simply states:

"Bikesdirect.com has been selling high quality bicycles on the internet for well over ten years.
Longer than many bike shops near you
We believe in bringing you the best deals possible - some are almost unbelievable!"

There is no mention of BD's branding practices and the use of names from defunct companies. There is no acknowledgment of the names being just that, names. Considering the descriptions imply that the bikes are designed and made by separate companies called Mercier, Motobecane, and Windsor, this omission is a little dishonest.

I could be totally off base with this, because I fully admit to knowing little about the bike industry. However, I can easily see why someone could feel mislead.