Big chain vs bike shop

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11-06-16, 10:33 PM

#26

Dave Cutter

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Quote:

Originally Posted by Tcon123

..... I would like to spend 600-800 on a good road bike. Not a racer. Something whose primary purpose is pavement but that can hit the trails a few times a year......

Bicycles are designed and built for primary purposes... not dependent on price. You can buy a road bike with a race geometry or a road bike with a more relaxed geometry. Whatever price point you decide on... buy the bike that is intended for the use you want. And buy a bike that fits great and feels great.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tcon123

..... I feel like a $650 Canadian tire bike with a $100 set up is better than an $800 bare bones Trek bike. Am I wrong? Looking forward to hearing from everyone.

I like Trek. My entry level 1.1 has a relaxed geometry that works well with my old bones. The aluminum bike was made in Asia... but designed in Waterloo Wi... I think that makes a difference with fit and feel.

But... I don't think the 1.1 would be my first choice for a non-paved trail.

11-07-16, 02:27 PM

#27

MAK

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Pardon the analogy but...It's the difference between going to a family doctor who knows you well and a walk in clinic that serves hundreds of "anonymous" patients a week or month. Is it worth a bit more money for quality and somewhat of a guarantee? IMO...yes.

Remember that an LBS survives by selling quality and standing behind it. If you frequent them they get to know you and their advice and expertise can be valuable. If X-Mart bikes go bad they make-up the business in housewares and women clothing, etc. Advice from an X-Mart employee, even if well meaning, is usually worthless and could be harmful.