Quote Originally Posted by bcipam
Cali:

It's funny but I actually liked that Performance (the one near the Supergo Store and was sad it had to close. It was the one Perf. store where I could ask questions, well within reason.

I really like to patronize the small LBS' I have a good relationship with the owners of several and I can usually get a good price on things if I ask. Plus I may paid alittle more but I get better service. You know, I rather shop at Nordstrom's than KMart.

Best thing, is to be educated about all things bicycles through knowleable people, web search and web chat like this one. Then you can take that knowledge and shop it around, peruse different stores and check the internet. If you ever want something let me know. My buddy Richard literally knows all - hell he might have it for sell. I all him my personal "Richard's Bike Shop." He wouldn't be a good source for woman's clothing (at least that I know of) but components - he knows it all!!!
other than that time... we never had a bad incident (and actually bought my dolce at supergo.. so technically they still got my money... but i've since learned... cuz my dolce had fit issues that got resolved later after i rode more... and became more knowledgable!)

i do more online shopping with performance (and constantly have small issues.. such as stuff not shipping on time, etc)... but they always make it right... i figure i get the SERVICE that i pay for!

even our closest GOOD LBS is an hour away... we buy some stuff from them... but when i can get a huge savings (like on our edges.. and we needed 2... so it's important to save where we can!)

but we've also bought 3 bikes from them.... including my ruby at retail!