Major disappointment while bike shopping

[nscrbug]

I've called a few others in my area, and I'm getting the same story - none of the bikes I want in stock, nor can they order anymore for this year. I guess it's similar to car dealers...once they hit a certain date, they stop production for the current model year. Plus...another LBS told me that bike shops get their inventory based on "allocations". A smaller bike shop may only get 1 allocation for a certain bike...once that allocation is met, they get no more of that particular bike for that year. And since the bikes I am looking at are considered "higher-end" bikes (in the $3k range), most smaller shops don't keep inventory of high-end bikes. There is one high volume shop (Trek dealer) that does keep a stocked inventory of high-end bikes, but it is a major PITA to get to, no parking in the area, and they don't allow outdoor test rides...so, I have a hard time bringing myself to go there.

[Blueberry]

and they don't allow outdoor test rides...so, I have a hard time bringing myself to go there.

How in the &$*% do they sell bikes? That seems very odd to me...

[radicalrye]

I work for a Trek/Felt/Gary Fisher dealership and it's the same for almost every bicycle manufacturer. The numbers that were forecast for 2010 fell way below the actual demand.

Dealers weren't putting in large orders so they cut production short for most lines.

If anyone is in the market for a bike I would highly suggest buying as soon as you can because most shops won't be able to even order another in your size/color.

I've heard that 2011 bikes are being released earlier than expected if the demand keeps coming and dealers can't keep enough product in stock.

It's funny to say that this is actually a GOOD problem to have. It shows there are a lot more people getting back into cycling

[tzvia]

nscrbug- Good you are over chickenpox! You are probably itching for a new bike after that! From what I understand, the Giant bikes are a bit longer in the toptube than the 'WSD' offerings of some other manufacturers. If you can find an LBS with a Spec Ruby, you might like it as the top tube is a bit shorter. I've got shortish arms and tend to feel stretched and kinda hokie on most bikes, but my Ruby Expert fits great and soaks up the chatter. I splurged on a CF handlebar (got a frame and built it up) and the Ruby plays nice on my tired old bones while going fast! Love it.

In 2008 when I went looking for a Felt, Specialized or Giant that fit me, (I'm only 5'1.5") I was lucky to find one Ruby that was maybe a bit big (48cm) but it was ok. I replaced it early last year after a crash, and the dealer had no trouble getting a 44cm 09 Expert frame in a week from Spec. Dealers had stock of WSD bikes, a much better selection than 08 when I drove all over town and found nothing. Now it looks like 2008 all over again. I went looking for a commuter on a tight budget, and just was looking about, and didn't see much WSD. I thought it was due to the economy and had no idea that bike sales were climbing.

[chicagogal]

I don't know what shops you tried, but Alberto's in highland park is a connondale dealer.

There is also Kozy's, the pony shop, and get a grip.

I'd just start calling around.

[nscrbug]

I don't know what shops you tried, but Alberto's in highland park is a connondale dealer.

There is also Kozy's, the pony shop, and get a grip.

I'd just start calling around.

Kozy's was the shop I went to over the weekend that had nothing available in my size and could not order me a bike. They also called Get A Grip, and they too had nothing. Have not tried Alberto's (although that is a bit far for me to travel) or The Pony Shop yet.