Why would my bike shop do this?

[ilima]

I think bikes set up here in Aust are the same way as your bike. I purchased my bikes in the USA and so they are the other way around. I can tell you I would not be happy if they decided to change them around without consulting me. I like them just they way they are and because it is what I know I feel it is safer to keep it that way even if it is different from the norm here in Australia.

http://www.bv.com.au/bikes-&-riding/11156/

Exactly. There is nothing unsafe about having the right hand control the front brake. In fact, I think it's highly irresponsible and unsafe of the shop to switch out the controls without telling you.

I'd be really, really irritated and demand they switch it back first thing. I would not for one second listen to their lame explanations. It is completely safe to set it up the way you had it.