LBS vs Mail order

iandennis

So I was looking at a supersix but with short legs and a longish torso, couldn't find a local one to try. Did go to Evans to try a CAAD 10 but not much help - typical Evans- "oh that a really good fit" as I stood next to it. I did eventually get to sit on it but not entirely happy. So whilst I could get a supersix for £1199 i'm not entire sold. Plus its mail order and a lot of money to spend without a test ride. Apparently I have long femurs and already have a 32mm setback seatpost on my current bike so i'm not keen on trusting to non-bespoke fitting.

Going to try a Planet X on wednesday for sizing - but won't get a test ride.

I'm keen to get another Sram groupset hence a little restricted on my choice.

On the way home tonight I popped into my LBS who happens to stock Giant. Had a look at the Defy Composite 2 which looked rather nice. "Would you like a test ride sir- come back at the weekend and you can take it out for the mornign and see what you think" but its full price and £1399.

So is a LBS service, help, fitting and expertise worth £399 over the cost of the planet x ? I'm a mechanical idiot so can see me using the shop, plus the Giant frame comes with a good warrenty and seems well thought of ?

I can see me spending the extra for piece of mind and support but is it worth it ?

Sorry this is a bit long but any help appreciated

Thanks

ShutUpLegs

No. But they should offer a reasonable discount that could make it worthwhile.

mroli

Agreed - you lose nothing by asking them for a discount. Tell them the truth - that you're looking online, but you want LBS expertise and you'll go back to them for servicing and stuff and what can they offer you?

The least they can do is say "nothing", but you won't know if you don't ask.

dwanes

+1

they will discount, or offer some free accessories if you need anything.

bernithebiker

mroli wrote:

Agreed - you lose nothing by asking them for a discount.

Try that in France, and you might lose your kneecaps........!

(They don't really do internet here. Or Strava, )

danlikesbikes

iandennis wrote:

So is a LBS service, help, fitting and expertise worth £399 over the cost of the planet x ? I'm a mechanical idiot so can see me using the shop, plus the Giant frame comes with a good warrenty and seems well thought of ?

No because its not the same bike so your not just paying the LBS the difference for what their service.

If your after a Planet X they why not try Triathlon Zone in St.Albans they have always been good to me when I have shopped their.

arran77

dwanes wrote:

+1

they will discount, or offer some free accessories if you need anything.

The shop local to us that stocks Giant is Pedal On in Tadley, great shop that do exactly this with their podium points, my wife got her new Giant there and got loads of free bits including a Garmin Edge 500 with the points.

iandennis wrote:

So is a LBS service, help, fitting and expertise worth £399 over the cost of the planet x ?

Highly recommended shop and probably less than an hour drive from you

velohutts

See what the LBS can do for you on
Price , fitting , accessories , 1st service , clothing/accessories and the peace of mind that any snags are somewhat easier to resolve (in theory).
Be honest with them that you have been looking on line, they look as well and within reason you should get close to the online price but with a few extra bits thrown in or discounted.
Good luck and if you don't ask you don't know.

iandennis

Going to Triathlon Zone next week to try the Planet X. They seem very helpful and professional. Planet X appear to of downgraded the spec on the Pro Carbon this morning, not fitted with Apex brakes but back to tektro.

Pedal On seem to have a large range of stock and are certainly helpful. However from what I understand "topping up" isnt possible

LBS does have some advtantages for servicing, help etc.

The Giant Geometry is similar to what I have at the present just slightly more agressive. Looking forward to a test ride, which should help make a decision.

arran77

iandennis wrote:

Pedal On seem to have a large range of stock and are certainly helpful. However from what I understand "topping up" isnt possible

Oh sorry didn't realise you were doing this on the cylce to work scheme thing if that's what you're refering to with "topping up".

g00se

From my understanding, LBSes are in a difficult position to drop prices on bikes as there is not much mark up (big chains and the websites are in a better position here as they can bulk buy and get better rates from the manufacturers and distributors). Unless of course, it's old stock and they're looking to clear room for new models.

Also, with the bike to work scheme taking a cut of the sales - the LBS looses even more of it's profit.

However, they do make money on spares, parts and labour - so that's where you may be able to get some bargains. Maybe they'll upgrade the wheels, through in a lock, get a good price on some bibs and helmet etc.