As someone who has been in the industry for twenty years AND owns a small shop; it was very interesting to hear all of your replies.

With that said, the online business is something that is definitely taking jobs away from your local area... less property taxes are being paid etc...

My shop has always offered events for every ability level and age, although I would also say that quite often people choose not to participate. We've hosted family rides where we wear normal clothing, races, road rides, mountain bike rides, trainer rides... you name it and we've done it. Although there are probably some people who appreciate it and partcipate, others you simply can't "rally" to participate .

One of the issues that I have with online is that in most sales you do not pay state sales tax. Right off the top, your local area is being affected by this and it's a huge impact at not only the brick and morter, but also at the state level. (for those states that have a tax)I'm sure that we have all heard that 68% of all money spent locally stays local. So in an era when we all want more jobs, why is it that we are contributing to something that is hurting all of us?

I think the thing that bothers me the most is that as a society, we look for medical advice, information on building/repairs, and things that it's hard to diagnose over the computer.

Lastly, I realize that there are some shops that do a better job than others, however that is true with all of us here and in all of our professions. I've said this before, if a shop truly wants you business, then they will listen to your suggestions. If you don't say anything, then we truly have no reason to complain.

So the moral to the story is to communicate... talk with your local shop, help others who may be 'first timers', having a bad day or perhaps simply are a bit slower. We are all part of this job solution; and I for one hope that my nephews are left with a better state of the economy than it is right now.