Bike Shops

[Clare]

I have really enjoyed being a member of this forum. You are all such an inspiration. Sometimes when I feel like not riding, I read your posts and I get motivated!

I have a question...or rather a dilemma and am hoping you can help me. I have been going to the same LBS for quite some time now. I practically do all my shopping there and get all my bike maintenance done there. I know the owners and crew. I'm just a plain ol' regular customer.

Here's my quandary...I've been researching bikes the past few weeks because in a couple of weeks I am planning on purchasing a new carbon bike. The problem is that I really like the Trek Pilot (WSD) but my LBS doesn't carry trek, but the LBS across town does. I'm also looking at the new Specialized WSD design carbon frame that is coming out this fall. My LBS carries this one. I will do some serious test riding when the time is right...but should I stick with my usual LBS no matter what, even if the Trek feels better? Is loyalty more important?

Thanks so much for your imput.
Clare

[Trekhawk]

[QUOTE=Clare]The problem is that I really like the Trek Pilot (WSD) but my LBS doesn't carry trek, but the LBS across town does. I'm also looking at the new Specialized WSD design carbon frame that is coming out this fall. My LBS carries this one. I will do some serious test riding when the time is right...but should I stick with my usual LBS no matter what, even if the Trek feels better? Is loyalty more important?

I think most bicycle shops understand that you want to get a bike that is the best fit etc. If this means a model they dont stock then you have no choice but to go to another shop - Im sure they understand this.

Try as many bikes as you can and then make your choice based on what you like best not which shop it comes from.

Happy hunting.

[caligurl]

get the bike you WANT even if that means going to another bike store! if you like (LOVE) the trek.. GET IT! you will always "regret" it in some way... if you don't!

[SalsaMTB]

Get what fits you best. Don't get something because you feel bad shopping at another store, you'll regret it too much.

[bikerchick68]

I agree to get the bike that feels right... you can always take the Trek to your LBS for service etc... many LBS consider it a compliment that you trust THEM with your other brand bike to do all the repair stuff... I ride a Litespeed, but all my maintenance is done by my local Trek Store! I tried the WSD Trek and it just didn't work for me... they were very cool about it and the manager still gives me a hug even when I come in with my LS...

[SadieKate]

I haven't actually asked the question in a while and maybe someone on this forum knows, but last I heard the profit margin is in the accessories not the bike. So, your LBS is probably making more money from your purchases of everything else. I suspect they'll understand. One shop cannot be all things to all people. You can always give the Specialized a try, but buy the bike that fits you not the bike that your LBS carries.

[Pedal Wench]

A bike purchase is so personal, and potentially long-term, that you should always get the bike that fits best. It's crazy not to - you might move in a month, the shop closes or whatever, and you're stuck with a bike that doesn't fit!

That being said, you might ask your favorite store if they can order a Trek - they might not be an official dealer, but might be able to get it for you as a special order.

And, like others have said, they'll still get your loyalty with maintenance and accessories (although the store that you buy the bike might offer a year or two of tuneups on the new purchase.)

[Irulan]

You can use this as an opportunity to develop a relationship with the other shop. I shop all over the place, and I have good first name relationships with a hand ful of shops. Not all shops can be all things to all people.

Irulan

[Clare]

Thanks so much for all your input. You helped me confirm what I felt was really the most important and that is getting the bike that fits me best. I'm really excited about getting my new bike! I can't make the purchase until the end of this month, but I think I can start the more serious process of trying different bikes out.

Thanks again so much.