Walmart Goes Carbon

[Trek420]

He doesn't explain to the person why, he just refuses. They exit the store. The shop owner explained to me the first time I witnessed this situation that he refuses to have Made in China Walmart bikes in his shop, that he won't condone or enable the ownership of such bikes, and that the liability factor for even touching such a bike for repair is huge.

I agree that box store bikes are meant to break within blocks of the store often dangerously and most can't be fixed. I'm glad that you have a great LBS. But I disagree with his approach. Because most of these riders will never ride again, or leave with the impression that bike shops are snobs.

I've seen my shop tell a rider the bike can't be fixed, and not go into detail. Just can't be done. But one of the reasons I like Chris is he respects all bikes. I remember being in when a guy came in looked around and said "I want a full suspsension MTB for around $400".

Chris gave him a concise 30 second explanation of how he'd pay for the "look of suspension" with poor frame, fit and or components and for what the rider wanted to do (fitness, commute) a bike without suspension-better frame and components.

He explained he has nothing in that range which is true, he hardly has parts in that price but sent the guy to some nearby shops....with an invitation that whatever he buys wherever he gets it to come back for maintenance, service and fit.

Now that's good service.

How many of us have heard "I tried cycling but ____ broke and or ____ hurt"

Well where'd you get the bike?

Have to educate people to get thee to a LBS will save you time and $$$ but the LBS should be a welcome place to go.