hi.

i'm looking at buying a milwaukee cycle co. set up, but don't think i can assemble the bike myself (i know, people are groaning right now).

does anyone know whether LBS will assemble the bike for me? is this (at all) common, given that the bike wouldn't have been purchased there?

any idea about labor rates.

i'm in the dc area, but non geography specific info would be welcomed.

thanks,
m

Some shops might not want to have to deal with warranty issues or deal with the particular brand of bike you have...

That being said, we've built bikes for many people (where the bikes weren't bought from us), so it's perfectly legit. Just go to your LBS and ask if they'll assemble, or call.

i dont think id really appreciate that if i owned an lbs

People are paying you to assemble their bike for them. Assembly is assembly, money goes into your pocket.

I just built my first FG. I was planning to use a combination of parts I bought at the LBS and parts I bought online. The frame was from Craigslist. They wanted to charge me $55 for the build. Although I'm sure they'd prefer if you bought the parts with them. I'm sure they'll be happy to do the build. Money is money and you'll likely be a customer there in the future for repairs and tune-ups.

I ended up building my bike myself at a local co-op. If you can find one in you area I'd highly recommend this route. You don't have to have your own tools, you'll get advice from more knowledgeable members, and you'll learn to do things yourself. I used Broadway Bicycle School in Boston. Look for a similar place in your area.

thanks, everyone. i totally forgot about the co-op option. i think there are some around here.

and yes--i would continue to be a LBS customer (just my preference) even if i didn't purchase a bike there.

m

take it to mount airy bikes, or college park bikes. it's worth it for just the trip.

most shops wouldn't have a problem with it.

what was wrong with the answers we provided in the other thread?