LBS - love them or hate them?

[GLC1968]

You are not of this planet, are you?

Probably not.

[NoNo]

I used to love my new LBS (I moved). Bought my bike from them last year, had a question about the price I'd seen another shop charging for the bike, and they split me the difference. Great, I thought, an honest shop. I also thought it was nice that it came with free lifetime tune-ups and they offered a tire protection plan, which I've used. But lately I've been less enamoured with them. I've spent a decent amount of money there, I've brought in family and they've shopped there as well. Yet every time I walk in, it's as if they've never seen me before. Not the slightest hint of recognition. Now they've moved to a sleek new store, and it really changed the feel from local shop to big corporation. It also doesn't help that I live in a fairly wealthy town (though I am not one of the lucky ones), so their focus seems to be on selling higher-end gear. My old LBS used to give a discount if you were doing a charity ride, this place is like "Oh, that's nice, fork over the cash." I'm thinking I'd like to learn how to do things myself and only use them as a back-up. Or find another LBS, though it's so convenient to have a place right down the road.

[Fredwina]

I guess I'm really bacon.
I would like to support a LBS, and try to but a lot of time I wind up at REI. Between the selection and the fact that they are only shop open when I am off work on the weekdays, it makes it a little easier (plus, I am a member, so I do get the discounts

[shellkay1212]

I LOVE my LBS...I'm making cookies for the guys this weekend!

[Irulan]

I LOVE my LBS...I'm making cookies for the guys this weekend!

Ditto.
Nothing like showing up with warm cookies to turn the LBS guys into your friends.

[redrhodie]

Cookies for mine, too! Jeez, I wonder if they're inundated with them?

[Irulan]

I actually think they get more beer than anything. That is what guys always take them. I try to think of both the under age shop rats and the people who just don't drink.

I had someone tell me I shouldn't take cookies because they weren't healthy and someone who is training wouldn't want them.