Bike shops

[Rooster]

Is there a shop around that carries fox forks in stock?

[ibismojo2001]

I know of one that could get one from Q in a day or less so I would say that most could as well.:D

[tedsti]

I know of one that could get one from Q in a day or less so I would say that most could as well.:D
Actually, the only way to get Fox through Q is if you use bike builder and buy a whole bike.

[Rocky Mountain]

No, but why throw your money away...
www.comparisonpricing.com (http://www.comparisonpricing.com)

[manual63]

Actually, the only way to get Fox through Q is if you use bike builder and buy a whole bike.

True, QBP does not sell Fox forks. They do have pretty much all the other brands though....including DT Swiss....:)

The reason most shops don't carry suspension forks, from what they have told me anyway, is that mail-orders sell them way below markup and shops just can't compete with that price. Also, there are so many different varieties of forks a shop has a hard time stocking the right ones. It always seems people want what they don't have. It's an expensive item to have on hand and only a small amount of buyers actually buy such things since they are expensive and usually only people like us will pay that much for a fork.

So it's best to figure out what you want, find people that have them to test them, and go into a shop and order it.

[ibismojo2001]

Actually, the only way to get Fox through Q is if you use bike builder and buy a whole bike.


Fair. Just a guess on my part. Don't own any fox forks:cool:

[dvo1]

Fair. Just a guess on my part. Don't own any fox forks:cool:

I feel for you.

[Paul Swenson]

you can't spell forx without F.O.X

[ibismojo2001]

I feel for you.

Don't. I'm just smart:D

[Matthew]

The big REI had several fox forks hanging up on the wall last time I was in there. They were next to the door into the repair area.

[daviebee]

The big REI had several fox forks hanging up on the wall last time I was in there. They were next to the door into the repair area.
Yes, Bloomington has a fox something on the wall

[Rooster]

well thanks for the info. The prices online were the same that I could Order it from a shop so I orderd it today.

[bmiller82]

Support Your Lbs

[transplant]

Unless you can do the work yourself. If you can't, then let the LBS do it. And buy whatever is needed from them.

[soupboy]

If find that really difficult to believe. What model was it?

The prices online were the same that I could Order it from a shop so I orderd it today.

[Rocky Mountain]

Thought the same thing but at the time did not want to waste energy to reply and try to educate somebody.
If find that really difficult to believe. What model was it?

As far as soley buying from LBS's , it is a free market and they make their money on the unexperienced bikers which the world has alot of. This may slightly change due to the higher gas prices.

[Rooster]

fox vanilla 32 550 on ebay 550 at the lbs

[Rooster]

model RLC

[Rocky Mountain]

Possible savings of $85.75----

$500 incl. free Deus headset.
http://www.pricepoint.com/detail/16889-315_FOX2V8_KIT-3-Parts-59-Forks/Accessories/Fox-32-Vanilla-RLC-Suspension-Fork-2008-w/-Race-Face-Deus-XC-Headset-offer?utm_source=Qbike&offer=IN080QB1.htm&zmam=3075515&zmas=1&zmac=16&zma&utm_medium=datafeed&utm_campaign=FTP

$500 + free shipping
http://brandscycle.com/itemdetails.cfm?ID=10125

LBS=$585.75 (includes tax)

[jjrsds]

As far as soley buying from LBS's , it is a free market and they make their money on the unexperienced bikers which the world has alot of. This may slightly change due to the higher gas prices.

Not sure who stole your lollipop but most LBS like customers to come back. If your handy with tools and don't mind risking having to send a part back at your expense, trying to have warranty work without proof from a dealer go ahead and buy cheap and good luck. A lot of items are readily available locally and close in price (shipping may actually make the cost the same or more).

Most of the LBS give money back to you by helping with races, trails and donations to the dirt we ride on. The trails are not free, from this organization where the board, trail stewards, dirt bosses and trail workers who donate time so we can all ride is provided greatly by the donations from LBS. Do what you want and not support your local trail.

[jjrsds]

If find that really difficult to believe. What model was it?


Not saying everything is cheaper or the same price as e-tailers but you'd be suprised by how close or the same price is at your LBS. Blow-outs or last years stock not sold excluded from my argument.

[jjrsds]

Possible savings of $85.75----
LBS=$585.75 (includes tax)

Shipping from price point is roughly 17.00 bucks. Down to 68 bucks. Installing fork including cutting steerer to proper size depending on shop 40-50 bucks. Down to 18 bucks savings. Having to send back to Fox Factory for warranty work another due to bad upper bushing, seal or other warranty work 17 bucks. Money saved 1 buck. Money sent back to your local trail ZERO. :banghead:

[soupboy]

The JJ doth protest too much. :p

Consumables (chains, tubes, etc.) = the LBS *might* be "relatively" competitive...attributable solely to the low price point. If I'm in a pinch I have no problem paying a premium at the LBS.

Components (frames, forks, drivetrain, etc.) = the LBS is competitive 0.01% of the time. This is not a knock on LBSs, it is just reality.

LBSs are great. I appreciate them. But, if you know what you want and know how to wrench the part then *that* consumer is best served by eTailers who thrive on a different bidness model than the LBS.

It tis what it tis.

"Not using the LBS" does not equal "not supporting your local trails". Have you ever purchased gear online? No offense, but if your answer is "...no..." you are a liar. If I am wrong, please accept my apology and forgive me. You just like to waste money - I can't help you.:cool:

Not saying everything is cheaper or the same price as e-tailers but you'd be surprised by how close or the same price is at your LBS. Blow-outs or last years stock not sold excluded from my argument.

[jjrsds]

I have and still do buy certain items at various sources that are procured from out of state. My current FS mountain bike (proform and a great ride for me), the wheels on my road bike and the Accelerade that powered me to finish my last race. Some components are competitive some are close, some items are not available locally but trying to get people to check it out first and decide. I assume you know my place of employment and don't hold it against me.

Side note: when we going to share a nice glass of Scotland's various waters. Willing to spring for the Glenlivet. Enjoying the conversation.

[soupboy]

I assume nathan...you know the adage. ;)

I am happy to support the consumption of any and all whiskeys.

The weekend of 6/13 shall be prime time for a Chez Epp Theo Group Ride and grilled beast and whiskey tasting. Come one, come all. Except Vold...keep your nekidness elsewhere.

What JJ said...

[Rooster]

well regardless I'm getting my fork and am bettering the economy by paying more if I can afford it. :crazy:

[bmiller82]

Components (frames, forks, drivetrain, etc.) = the LBS is competitive 0.01% of the time. This is not a knock on LBSs, it is just reality.

I find that hard to believe, I know for a fact that you can buy many components cheaper at a shop then online after paying shipping. I for one do work at a shop and have sold many groups to people (particulary road) and our regular price is cheaper than reputable online dealers. So why don't you check prices before your statement of 0.01% of the time because thats just false, ya know 70% of all statistics can be made up 50% of the time.

[Rocky Mountain]

Brian,

Here is a simple challenge for you to provide your bike shops "retail" price for the following items:

Raceface Deus Crankset(Incl BB) 175mm, Black
Shimano XT Cassette M-570 11-32
Answer Pro Taper 2" Bars(silver)

Group sets are never cheap on the internet. For mountain, most do not want all Shimano or SRAM due to other Hyd. Brakes mfg.

I find that hard to believe, I know for a fact that you can buy many components cheaper at a shop then online after paying shipping. I for one do work at a shop and have sold many groups to people (particulary road) and our regular price is cheaper than reputable online dealers. So why don't you check prices before your statement of 0.01% of the time because thats just false, ya know 70% of all statistics can be made up 50% of the time.

[Standard]

How about providing the 'service' of the online retailer when you need to make a warranty claim on a product you bought, or help with installing it, or questions on compatibility.

;)

[quickerpicker]

Lets see, here's what the LBS gives you when YOU puchase online: free advise, quick adjustments, helping make it fit properly, and suggested improvements which you can go back and buy also online. If they carry the bike and have one in stock, they will let you test ride it also, just to make sure you like it, before you give your money to someone else. They do this cause they care about their customer and business. So the results of the above experience is the LBS goes out of business cause they can't pay employees, vendors, rent or themselves. LBS owners aren't driving Porsche's, living in North Oaks or on Lake Minnetonka (well maybe one, but he's the exception). They work 50-60 hours a week, and if you have an immediate need, will figure out how to accommodate you when you just shredded your rear derailuer, and you want a new one so you can ride tomorrow, without charging special rates. They help you figure out what can work best in components for what you want, and will try to find a way to exchange it if it doesn't work out quite right. And the real deal is the LBS isn't going to try to defend themselves on these threads, cause they just want to do a good job. So I'll rant for them. I will gladly pay 10% more at a LBS for the service they provide.

[DmacBmac]

I assume nathan...you know the adage. ;)

I am happy to support the consumption of any and all whiskeys.

The weekend of 6/13 shall be prime time for a Chez Epp Theo Group Ride and grilled beast and whiskey tasting. Come one, come all. Except Vold...keep your nekidness elsewhere.


Is this official???

[bmiller82]

The other thing about online prices is they devalue the product. These companies setup a retail price for many reasons. Selling something cheaper just devalues it and dosen't make it worth what the preceved value should be. Alot of stores in town support morc donating money, dontating their employees paid on the clock time to build trails and let them use space in their building for meetings etc. They support morc, you should support them.

[Ish]

Selling something cheaper just devalues it and dosen't make it worth what the preceved value should be.

You make it sound like this is a bad thing.:confused:

[Paul Swenson]

The other thing about online prices is they devalue the product.

You know what else devalues a product? Beating the crap out of it. It's a bike part so when I get done using it most likely will be worthless. Why would I care about devaluation.

[tedsti]

Selling something cheaper just devalues it and dosen't make it worth what the preceved value should be.

This just means that the item never had the perceived retail value in the first place.

[Heuy]

The other thing about online prices is they devalue the product. These companies setup a retail price for many reasons. Selling something cheaper just devalues it and dosen't make it worth what the preceved value should be. Alot of stores in town support morc donating money, dontating their employees paid on the clock time to build trails and let them use space in their building for meetings etc. They support morc, you should support them.

This "Should be price" that you speak of?

What I was taught is that the market determines what a price "should be".

Whether people are aware of it or not we do cost-benefit analysis of our purchases. If you want to charge more for your product you either need to convince the customer of the great benefit it (or buying it through you) provides. Or, you need to improve it so that it offers more benefit and gives them a reason to pay more.

[Ala Carte]

The world of the internet has put a huge dent in the aftermarket parts sales in retail shops everywhere. There are many times when parts can be had online for a little more than what shop employees cost is. It is what it is, and isn't going away, and its probably why I still have Shimano 600 front derailleurs at my shop. But the world is filled with people who will pay retail for friendly human interaction, have a good time at a bike shop and wheel your freshly tuned bike out the door knowing it will work great on the first ride.

[jjrsds]

Very well put Tyson.

Soup the 13th doesnt' work for me but I will provide sometime soon and enjoy the conversation.

[Stonehenge]

Hmmm not its more about choices at many levels. Time, money convenience, entertainment, trust, rework, ...fill in the blanks for the rest.

food for thought......If you could order Gasoline over the internet...Hmmmmm reality check?? or??

[4Screws]

The world of the internet has put a huge dent in the aftermarket parts sales in retail shops everywhere. There are many times when parts can be had online for a little more than what shop employees cost is. It is what it is, and isn't going away, and its probably why I still have Shimano 600 front derailleurs at my shop. But the world is filled with people who will pay retail for friendly human interaction, have a good time at a bike shop and wheel your freshly tuned bike out the door knowing it will work great on the first ride.


Damn whats up tyson..

[kikinik]

Mmm... good arguments on all sides.


I spend a ****-ton of money on bike frames and parts, building for people, or myself. I am a consumer, which puts me in charge of how, when, where, and why I spend my hard earned cash.

Yes, I surely love supporting my LBS (OneonOne). And I spend lots of cash monthly there. But there are things online that cant be found through a LBS, even above and beyond price. Do I feel bad about not spending all my bike fund money at OOOBS, yes sometimes, but I make up for that by volunteering, and donating in other ways. (Bidding 250 on a hand made messenger bag) I think something unique that has come from online shopping (mostly ebay and craigslist) is a renewed value in really f-in good, unique parts and frames. I payed $45 for a pair of turquoise shark bite pedals (my fav pedals ever). Would I find these sweet pedals at a retail chain shop. NO.

It also gives the opportunity for someone to part out their 95 homegrown, make a good bit of cash, and maybe go spend that money at a LBS. I just payed 125 for some mid 90's White industries Sugino made cranks. Im feeding the wallet of a consumer, by being a consumer. Anyways, I know most of you are talking about some of the online giants who just have enough volume to sell cheaper than a LBS. And I get that. In that case, I will go to the LBS.

But I know a lot of people buy their bikes complete, which kills alot of possible profit for a LBS. Along with that people buy from mass bike brands, Instead of the guys that are still making parts and frames in canada or the US. Shimano vs. White industries or paul. So what about that. And even further, why not ditch the big brand for a custom frame builder, who pours soul, sweat, and tears into something for you.

Anyways, now that Ive dug a bit of a hole,
It all goes back to the consumer and how he or she spends money.

Maybe its time for a change from manufactures and retailers.

[Rooster]

Wow , and all I wanted to know was what bike shops carried fox suspension.
Well after dealing with two different bike shops the last couple years I will now make every effort to buy online!!! Or at the vary least, buy all my parts online and do all mechanical fixes myself! WATCH for a post from me in the future explaining my experiences with a LBS in hopes to save others from going through the same crap I had to.

[jitterjepp]

The world of the internet has put a huge dent in the aftermarket parts sales in retail shops everywhere. There are many times when parts can be had online for a little more than what shop employees cost is. It is what it is, and isn't going away, and its probably why I still have Shimano 600 front derailleurs at my shop. But the world is filled with people who will pay retail for friendly human interaction, have a good time at a bike shop and wheel your freshly tuned bike out the door knowing it will work great on the first ride.
I'm one of those people. The only outdoor sports gear I've ever bought online were a pair of nashbar pedals that sucked and a pair of Mountain Hardware pants that I couldn't get anywhere else because they were discontinued, out of stock in stores and it literally took me half a day to find a pair that were my size.

I'd rather go into a shop and talk to people about what I want or what I want to do. I'll even order it there if they don't have what I need in stock.
I feel if they are paying people to offer expert advice then I should get it from them if I'm using that service. It also takes just as long for them to get the stuff to their shop as it does to my house and by that time the price is really about the same anyway.

I'm also on the page where I give back to shops who support trails, advocacy and events that help people get outdoors in my neighborhood. Most of the online companies don't give that back to us. There is value in getting it from people in our own neighborhood.

[Slackadocious]

Largely, the only reason LBSs cost more is because they typically have more overhead cost running a brick and mortar store vs an online one. Lower overhead cost translates to lower prices--in any retail business (save for the exception of douchebag money grubbing owners/mgmt--a rarity in this business).

Sure, some online retailers have brick and mortar storefronts as well, but in general their primary means of revenue originates online. Not only does this open them to a larger customer base than that of a LBS, but also it keeps expenses down because they aren't paying for 10m+ sqft of retail floorspace.

Also, a LBS may only stock a few of any one part or bike at a time, since their customer base does not require or enable any more than that. This means the LBS only orders a few units at a time, as needed.

On the other hand, online retailers with a larger customer base have more buying power at the distributor or mfg because they are able to move more product in less time, with less overhead cost. Anyone who shops at Costco or Sam's knows that buying in volume can greatly reduce unit price.

From a business perspective running an online bike shop has way more potential to be lucrative than setting up a traditional brick and mortar storefront.

This does not mean that the LBS has no use. A big part of LBS business is service & repair, something an online retailer simply cannot offer. Likewise, as others have stated, going to the LBS and speaking with a real human being holds a lot of gravity for a lot of consumers--consumers who are willing to pay a lil extra for the privilege.

Online, Brick and Mortar--both are here to stay. For veterans who can work on their own bike and know the industry, shopping online is likely the best (cheapest) path. For the average consumer who lacks service/repair skills or general bicycle knowledge, the LBS will almost certainly be their first choice.

I frequent both venues myself, and probably always will.

[Paul Swenson]

It seems to me that the parts manufactures and distributors mess with the LBS as well. I can't think of any other industry where you can go online and readily buy parts for what the LBS buys them for. I know it happens in other industries but doesn't seem as wide spread as the bike industry. Maybe I'm wrong but that's my observation.

[Specialeded]

Most LBS's are worthless unless you

A: ride or own a Comfort Bike.
B: feel like listening to their sales pitch preference's for their favorite bikes vs listening to what the customer wants.
C: feel like spending out your ass for minor repairs and small replacement parts.

Coming soon, "I hate my LBS" Stickers.

[Ala Carte]

Most LBS's are worthless unless you

A: ride or own a Comfort Bike.
B: feel like listening to their sales pitch preference's for their favorite bikes vs listening to what the customer wants.
C: feel like spending out your ass for minor repairs and small replacement parts.

Coming soon, "I hate my LBS" Stickers.

Sounds to me like you are visiting the wrong shops, dude. Do you ever ride the River Bottoms? If you do, make sure you don't use the new raft, because a "worthless LBS" had alot to do with getting that one there.

[jitterjepp]

Most LBS's are worthless unless you

A: ride or own a Comfort Bike.
B: feel like listening to their sales pitch preference's for their favorite bikes vs listening to what the customer wants.
C: feel like spending out your ass for minor repairs and small replacement parts.

Coming soon, "I hate my LBS" Stickers.What Tyson said + ride any other dirt trails that those worthless bike shops helped pay for or attend any events those worthless bike shops helped pay for or ride any of those bike paths those worthless bike shop owners regularly show up to meetings and write letters about.


What a major load of ass crap.

Seriously- what some of the Local Bike Shops do for the cycling community is huge.
They host events, they give away gear there, support other local activities like skateboard and snowboarding competitions....
You wont get any of that from most internet retailers. Not to mention most of the trails around here weren't free. Not to mention most of those guys helped build the original pre-morc ones and got the ball rolling.

[Specialeded]

I have been on both sides of the industry as a consumer and on the other side selling and wrenching. I will stick with what I said but better define my opinion:
MOST local "cookie cutter" bike shops are worthless unless....

[bmiller82]

your a cookie cutter

[bmiller82]

Your a cookie cutter

I have been on both sides of the industry as a consumer and on the other side selling and wrenching. I will stick with what I said but better define my opinion:

[Specialeded]

Your a cookie cutter

Your a cookie cutter
You're a double poster with with grammatical errors. ;)