Originally Posted by
RobbieTunes
Sure it has. People are cleaning out their attics and garages and parting with bikes that were simply not on the market last year.
1-The entry into the market of aluminum entry-level STI bikes at $200-up has impacted C&V buying by first-time bikers.
2-The same situation has not only siphoned off customers, it's impacted the price if you HAVE to sell.
3-Now, it appears the mid-level bikes being stored because they cost more to buy, but aren't being ridden anymore, are hitting the market. This is great for buyers, and see 1) and 2) above.
I thought that would be the case, but I sure haven't seen it yet. I think that as the recession drags on, prices will necessarily start to drop. I think. But countering that downward pressure on prices will be upward pressure as more people take up cycling. I guess it remains to be seen which force will be greater.
Originally Posted by
RobbieTunes
4-Tolerance for biking is a wee bit higher, as people stop and think a wee bit more. Not much.
I think that's true. As financial pressures act to get more people on bikes, they and their families will become more aware of the need for tolerance towards cyclists.