I'd have to agree. I can't think of too many things I'd buy or even look for at a big-box sporting goods store. Golf, bicycling, running, you name it, I can get greater selection on better goods at specialty stores, and know that 1) I got better, more knowledgeable advice, 2) I supported someone who cares about the presence of their given sport or activity in my area, and 3) more often than not I didn't spend a premium over the big-box to do it.

And I'm this --> <-- close to lumping REI in with them.

I shop at Dicks, as no one in my area keeps a decent inventory of fishing tackle except them. They are superior to Gander Mountain and Wal Mart, the other two choices.

I wasn't sure whether this fell under the "Lance" thread or the "StarTrek" thread...
... But, from George Takei's (Mr Sulu) Facebook thread...

http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphoto...37265865_n.jpg


(Ok, OK, I'm going to look for my fire extinguisher.... I think I'm gonna need it!)

Only been in Dick's few times. It reminds me a lot of another chain sporting good store of the past: "Herman's world of Sporting goods". I actually miss Herman's.

Is REI really like a Dick's or other general sporting goods store? Staff is knowledgeable, they have the good stuff (and they don't venture into sports like golf and tennis), and you get about a ten percent refund every year on your purchases.

Wow, that's just too funny...

Just a thought though...is there any endorsed bike, stationary or otherwise, out there that isn't tainted by the endorsers use of PED's at some time or another ? Lemond, Merckx and the list goes on...

LeMond is one of the few that still has a clean reputation.