LBS vs discount prices

[spindizzy]

My coach owns a small studio (sells GURU bikes exclusivel;y) and sells some other stuff- aerobars, wheel sets, tires, saddles, polar stuff, and Vega nutritonal products. He lives 45 min bike ride away.

My LBS is 5 minutes from my house. Nice shop - a bit more expensive. I bought my bike there and have it serviced there. LBS is inolved in community fundraising as well, so supporting them seems logical and important, Sometimes, I will just stop in to chat. No high pressure sales; and they will adjust fix my bike in an instant. They have started carrying some more women's specific stuff with my suggestion. And it is selling.

TE is awesome. I ordered some Tifosi sunglasses this year; they sent the wrong interchangable lenses. I didn't even realize it until they sent me the ones that were supposed to come with them. That is service!

I get my tires at Pricepoint, on-line. More than 50% cheaper than LBS, coach doesn't carry them (Hutchinson Fusion).

So I spend my life..feeling a bit guilty when I buy on-line, feeling a bit guilty when I buy from my coach, LBS etc. I try to spread it around. Now local running shop has gone under. I feel like a vulture, but I hope to get a couple pair of my favourtie running shoes at 50% off - am going there today.