Are local bike shops really capable of providing high-quality road bikes that can keep up with the demands of serious riders, or are they just catering to casual weekend warriors and newbies? It seems like every LBS is trying to be everything to everyone, sacrificing expertise and specialization in the process. Can we really expect a shop thats trying to sell kids bikes, commuter hybrids, and high-end road machines all under one roof to have the knowledge and inventory to satisfy the needs of experienced riders?
Or are we better off looking online or at specialty shops that focus solely on high-performance road bikes? Ive heard horror stories about LBS employees who dont know the difference between Shimano and SRAM, let alone being able to set up a proper fit or provide meaningful advice on component upgrades. And dont even get me started on the selection - are we really limited to whatever the shop happens to have in stock, or can they actually special order something that meets our specific needs?
Maybe Im just spoiled, but it seems like the big online retailers and specialty shops are the only ones who truly understand the needs of serious riders. Am I wrong to assume that LBS are more geared towards beginners and casual riders, and that we should look elsewhere for a high-quality road bike that can keep up with our demands?
Or are we better off looking online or at specialty shops that focus solely on high-performance road bikes? Ive heard horror stories about LBS employees who dont know the difference between Shimano and SRAM, let alone being able to set up a proper fit or provide meaningful advice on component upgrades. And dont even get me started on the selection - are we really limited to whatever the shop happens to have in stock, or can they actually special order something that meets our specific needs?
Maybe Im just spoiled, but it seems like the big online retailers and specialty shops are the only ones who truly understand the needs of serious riders. Am I wrong to assume that LBS are more geared towards beginners and casual riders, and that we should look elsewhere for a high-quality road bike that can keep up with our demands?