OK, so I'm looking at two new bikes, both of which have the features I'm looking for. Neither come in the color I want, so that issue is off the table. One, however, is priced at about 30% less than the other. There is no quality difference that I can see between the two, just differences in styling. I'm strongly tempted to go with the cheaper model. Assuming that the LBS's are equal (both are abysmal), and that either bike will end up being maintenanced at a third shop (who, unfortunately, stocks nothing comprable), what other factors should I consider before purchase?

Have the third special order something.

So are you saying that the components on both of the bikes are the same, the weight of both bikes are the same, and both are equally as comfortable to ride? If so, then you could consider the one that is less expensive.

I really like tbdean's answer, if they can do it.

Otherwise, I would go with the cheaper, if it's really comparable. Have you actually done a test ride on both, by the way? If you haven't, do so before making a decision. If LBS A & B discourage test rides, find something from C that is comparable. There almost has to be something as good as the ones from the dealers you don't like.

I'll definitely check at the good LBS and see if they can order me something. This particular bike is less "fit sensitive" than a touring or road bike, so an order may be an option. I'd be happy to spend more at the good shop.

It is a bit tacky to buy at one shop and take it to another for servicing. Take the specs and prices of the two bikes to the good shop and ask. There are some reputable mail order places. If the first two shops as so abysmal do not give them any business, please.

I always try to buy from my good LBS first. If they don't have what I want, I explain that to them & go shop elsewhere. My last two new bikes were bought from shops other than where I get my service. They don't mind - they understand that fit, features, and test rides are paramount to some buyers. I spend enough on parts & service that the good LBS is happy to have me.

I might add that the good LBS that I use is close to a college campus and that influences their stock significantly. The other shops are in more affluent sections of town & cater to a (generally) wealthier and older clientele. The other shops are also chains, which allows them (with more floorspace) to carry a significantly wider selection of both brands and models.

I usually don't buy on price alone. I'm willing to pay more if the shop I prefer to deal with has (or can get) what I want. This paradigm extends only to parts & service, though. For a bike purchase, I want to ride it before I buy it. This isn't possible with a small shop that can't keep a large inventory or get a specific model in a specific size just for a customer to try out.

To summarize - it isn't always "tacky" to buy a bike from one shop and service from another.