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Post by Massimo on Sept 20, 2012 21:33:19 GMT 1
I have been a frequent customer of a local bike shop. Have purchased bikes , cycle componets, accessories, clothing, fixed faulty bike's, etc. Recently, I decided to buy a frame on eBay and build my own bike, buying parts from different shops on line to save a few pounds & tried fitting different components by myself. As I'm not a bike mechanic, I found it difficult to install a gear shifter & cable, so I decided to take the bike to my local bike shop & explain what he has to do. After he's asked me if the components for the bike had been purchased from him, I told him I had purchased them on line from different bike shop sites, as I didn't want to spend a fortune on another bike. I knew straight away he wasn't too happy but he said he would fit the leavers & cable & tune the bike for not less than £100. After he told me that, I felt really surprised to be treated like that, especially as a regular customer. So I decided to shop around for bike fittings as well & the estimate price from a different , well established bike shop was £20 - £80 difference. My question is - as an amateur cyclist, I enjoy upgrading my bikes and changing when possible, but when your local bike shop starts to over-charge, because of not purchasing the item from him - do we need to support him as a small business or save a few pounds &shop around?
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Post by Johann on Sept 21, 2012 10:17:25 GMT 1
100 quid to fit cables?? What was the name of the shop... Dick Turpin Cycles??!! Some bike shops need to waken up and realise what’s going on around them... it ain’t 1980 anymore. lol. Massi, I’ll charge ya a tin of Guinness to fit!  ) Neill – Alco Cycles. |
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bryce
Club member 
Posts: 144
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Post by bryce on Sept 21, 2012 15:54:03 GMT 1
Hi Massimo
I think we have this perception that LBS need to be supported, the problem is, when you actually need something from them, it costs a fortune! I for one think its foolish to blow all our hard earned on overpriced goods and services - Why should we? I have found that LBS are not relying on "Wee Marty" coming in once in a while looking for a block or a shifter or a cable or whatever, rather they are making their money on online sales or elsewhere. Theres only so many times you get ripped off before not feeling guilty about shopping for the best deal online.
I used to really try and give the local bike shops business because you could haggle a bit, they get a sale and everyone was happy. That doesnt really happen anymore, the only offer they seem to do these days is buy one, buy another one.
Bryce
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Post by Massimo on Sept 22, 2012 22:02:08 GMT 1
I agree, we are not in the 80's anymore, cycling has become very popular in this country,, with more and more people taking on cycling to get fit and they become passionate about it. As more cyclists appear on the road, more bike shops open, and that means more competition as,there is a big market out there and everybody wants you as a costumer and also your friends. I had a business's myself as well a few years back and treated everybody the same, and the one thing I learned is, keep your old customers happy, to bring more new custumers.
To run a good business is not just about experience, and making as much money as possible from inexperienced cyclists; but also to provide a good custumer service.
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Post by garybailie on Sept 22, 2012 23:17:39 GMT 1
So come on Massimo, spill the beans, which shop was it? so we can all not go there ;P
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