LBS vs discount prices

[blackhillsbiker]

I guess I am the anomaly. I generally support local businesses and I did buy my bike at the local lbs (where I believe they scoped me out as someone who would pay the crazy amount of $ I spent on it). The shop caters mostly to racers, but they do carry a decent line of all type of Giant bikes, along with a lot of "boutique" brands.

There is one LBS I won't support here. The service/salespeople are terrible unless you are out to spend major $$. If not, you are just an inconvenience and relegated to the high school guy who works part time on weekends, if you can get him away from his friends long enough to get a bike down for you. Then you're on your own. They used to be a great shop, but they changed hands and everyone who was decent left.

[OakLeaf]

My opinion? In this economy, you'd be crazy to spend your money anywhere but locally.

Why in the world would I send any more of the money that's desperately needed where I live, to already-wealthy corporate executives and faraway places?