Finally buying the new bike -- but where?

[Nandy]

I find it strange that your regular shop is unable to get Surlys- they're distributed from QBP, one of the largest general bike product distributors in the country, every shop I've ever seen used them and it's very easy to get. Personally, I'd buy it from the shop that helped you out the most since most sales workers live on commission, whereas mechanics generally just get a wage and tips. Surlys are great, though!

[ZoneFive]

I find it strange that your regular shop is unable to get Surlys- they're distributed from QBP, one of the largest general bike product distributors in the country, every shop I've ever seen used them and it's very easy to get. Personally, I'd buy it from the shop that helped you out the most since most sales workers live on commission, whereas mechanics generally just get a wage and tips. Surlys are great, though!

I was surprised too that my LBS couldn't order the Ogre, but the woman I spoke to checked with the manager, and the answer was that they couldn't. They're good at service, though, and I'll take it there. On the other hand, Grand Rapids Bicycles was very helpful, and I wish they were closer. Actually I wish I lived closer to them, because Grand Rapids has a rather impressive bike culture, from what I've heard. My cycling friends and I will be looking into cycling events around the state this year, and I'll look for some in the area.

[ZoneFive]

I've been reading the Ogre build thread and I'm absolutely glazed over. All the variables of gearing and braking and handlebars and fenders and chainstays and carriers and cages and and and . . . . It really brings home how much there is to learn of the hardware. I'd love to know where that tan Ogre frame came from!

[ZoneFive]

I asked Manida (the other poster) about the color, too, and I'm waiting to hear back. The Tanish Grey is grey with beige leanings. Manida's tan looks like a real tan, without any grey. But that may be the photo or the monitor changing it, so I asked directly.