Quote Originally Posted by uforgot View Post
Local lbs means better bikes, better service. The shop will also provide support on the bikes you purchase. Sometimes he throws in free labor, sometimes he gives me a great deal, and if I have a question about anything bikes, he responds to emails within the hour.
I have to agree. My LBS gives me great deals, great advice, and great support. For example, I've gotten 2 pairs of nice $12 for $20: "We can make it work." Or a free velcro strap to keep my pump in place. Or when my bike needs tweaking, I can go in and they'll do it right then (especially in the winter when things are slow), often for free. They let me walk off with items without paying for them, knowing I'll be back to pay for it later. They let me borrow overnight, without leaving any collateral, a carbon fiber and titanium bike knowing I'd bring it back. They've fitted me on three bikes and have kept at it until the fit is perfect. So I keep coming back to them. That's the kind of beneficial relationship you can't get buying online or from bigger retailers.