LBS Loyalty

[OakLeaf]

Some of the bike shop owners/employees can chime in here, but I think bicis are the same as motos, where the profit margin on complete bikes is very narrow, and the shops' real bread and butter is parts, accessories and service. If that's the case, then where you buy your bike isn't as important as where you shop for the rest of your stuff.

[Koronin]

I personally have no loyalty at all to my local LBS. My local LBS sells Trek and Cannondale. However they really push Cannondale, and with females they push only women's gear and do not understand that a woman may prefer men's clothes, or saddles or anything else. So when I decide I can afford a new bike (plan is to get a Madone) I'll either be driving 2 hrs, 5 hrs, or 12 hrs to get it. If it coinsides with a trip to visit my family I'll order from that shop and have it waiting for me when we get there (awesome LBS up there that will sell it to me basically at their cost) that would the one 12 hrs away in Ohio. 5 Hrs away is Charlotte where our LBS for the past 10 yrs is at and we have always liked them and they are awesome. They really work with you to find what you need. They are now 5 hrs away (other side of the state). I've found an LBS in Raleigh that I like and can work with. They are 2 hrs away. All Trek dealers. The one in Charlotte also sells Cervelo and the one in Raleigh also sells Felt.

[GG4]

Thanks for the input. I haven't been to either bike shop yet to discuss, test ride, etc. But I agree with asking my LBS if they can do anything regarding the trade in price. If not, no hard feelings, but I have to do what is best for me. I will just be honest with them. I'd hate to show up on a new bike from another shop without having given them the opportunity to work with me. I'm not sure when I will start shopping around...still researching a bit.

Always get good advice from TE!!

[bluebug32]

I would definitely talk to your LBS about the situation. They may even know of someone who's looking for a used bike. Also, do they have any deals when you buy a bike (free fitting, accessory discount, tune-ups) that might make it worth buying it from them? I've found that it pays to be loyal (as long as you like them and feel like you're being treated well). My husband and I get (10-20%) discounts at most of our local shops now and free service at some. This comes with time, but buying a new bike at the shop you like might help you get on that short list faster.