I prefer to purchase locally and encourage mostly my LBS as I get excellent service, very good deals, etc. I do buy stuff on-line but mostly what my LBS does not carry as his prices match, and even less, of what I'd fine on line. And excellent service is something you sometimes have to pay a bit more for.

When I was looking for a specific Crux color, he tried getting it through Specialized Canada. He's got good connection with them and even them, could not get it as none were left at warehouse (it was in USA). So he told me to go get it (he would have done it for me but charge due to gas, etc to get it) and I was going camping in Vermont anyway. So I ended up calling many US dealer and one ordered the frame for me. But it was to my LBS I went to for the parts and the fitting, etc. The bike still ended up a piece of art (read: expensive) but this is my best bike ever. Beats big time my Amira. I prefer the comfort and no fear of the Crux. I'm more daredevil on the Crux and no regrets getting it on-line. But my LBS helped with with the measurements and make sure it would fit great. So yes, I don't mind buying stuff on line but generally, I will check with my bike shop and if he can't have/carry it, I'll go a different way.

I also like to encourage them as they are very involved in different causes, it gives jobs to people, etc. And it keeps the money in my area.