Quote Originally Posted by aly View Post
Now I have another question. The Tourmalet is on sale at the other store. The Bianchi is not- it's at MSRP. The difference is about $350 on bikes that are usually similar in price. Should I try to get a deal or is that super tacky- especially since I'm pretty willing to spend full price anyway? The good store people said they would be willing to switch my saddle out for me, so that's a little savings...
My advice would just to be honest. Tell them you are also considering the Tourmalet. Tell them the price is part of what's drawing you toward it. Ask them how the Bianchi compares to the Tourmalet.

If they are able to drop the price on the Bianchi, they will likely offer when you start talking about price comparisons. If they aren't able to drop the Bianchi price, consider the relationship with the shop. I have paid extra at my LBS and I have donated parts to their "used" bins, just because I love them and they treat me right. I understand that sometimes they can't match prices, and that's ok with me. What I get from my relationship with them is much more important to me than any "bargain."

Besides, who knows? Maybe you'll take the Bianchi out for a test-ride and hate it!

Anyway, I find honesty to work best. Let them know what you are looking at, be honest if you can't see the difference between the two bikes, be honest if you don't feel the Bianchi fits you right. LBS folks seem to have huge passions for bikes, and I've found them (unlike most chain-store shops) to be very willing to explain and show me things.