We are lucky enough to also have the skills and knowledge to purchase bikes online and assemble/service ourselve (ok, not me, but DH ). I have purchased entire bikes from an LBS, and online.

That said, many LBS's get a bit indignant about servicing a bike not purchased at their shop (especially if it was purchased online). Your friend should take that into consideration unless he is planning on building/servicing the bike himself.

And Motobecanes are relatively good bikes, and have gotten better in the past couple of years. i have a friend who is riding their 'cross bike this season and she loves it. Another friend has just purchased their titanium commuter, which we are also considering. There is nothing wrong with the brand itself.

SheFly