My LBS has a community workshop. You can buy the parts and DIY, pay them to do it, or pay for the drop in time so you can have someone guide you through doing it yourself allowing you learn. It's super cool. I thought I was good at adjusting my disc brakes until I took some pointers from them and damn near went over the handlebars on the way home from the shop.
I think the key is finding the right night shop that fits you. Funny enough this video comes at a great time, I live close to a lot of great bike shops each that cater a different audience and none that I really fit that well into. I don’t have tons of money to toss into a new bike and would rather pick up one used and make it my own. Along with that I’m an avid DIY’er, and would much rather buy the tools and learn how to do the work then get it done at the mechanic (for most things). I head into the closest shop recently to get a crank removal tool. The guy gives me a hard time taking about how I should just bring it in instead , and they don’t carry it because it’s a one time use tool… it’s the second time this month I’ve needed one. Figured that shop wasn’t the one for me and the next shop I go to for shifter cable housing, and some other oddities. The mechanic has to do the sale because the parts I needed were in his “section”. But the guy, who could just be very un charismatic, was very off putting about helping get the parts I needed. Like I love supporting local businesses, but I will choose the best experience over locality. Over the course of the month I’ve spent over $200 on dodads that you need to build up a bike. Sure it’s not a at once $8000 new cervelo or moots, but if I enjoy the business you’ve got me for life and my word of mouth. I hope the best for all LBS, but man does it stink to not feel welcome in some of them.
I love Cyclepath as a shop. The bikes they sell tend to be $$$, but they happily worked on my cobbled together 2010 hardtail-turned-gravel bike for very fair prices.
Serendipity. My local bike shop put my new tubular tires on that I bought and new brake pads this week. The mechanic gave me back my old tubulars and told me I could use them as emergency in case of flat to get me home. Just pump up and go easy. Never knew this.
I love and support this vantage point. I’d rather give my local bike shops money than trek/corporate shops. I appreciate their love and knowledge and care.
Of all the shops in portland, i actually havent stopped at Cyclepath. Ill have to check em out, looks like a fantastic shop and cool guy. I love the LBS in portland. Thanks for putting me on to a new one!
That's actually a good sign. 3-4 weeks is a bit too long, but it shows that people trust the shop and is charging reasonable rates. The empty bike shop is empty for a reason. Nobody sees the value.
Back in the 80’s Kawasaki Newcastle was the bike shop where BMX and skateboarders used to all meet up, make friends go off and find new places to skate and ride. I miss those days
My LBS sometimes feels so pretentious. I know an okay about bikes but sometimes I get stressed going there because I feel I get talked down to. I want to love it, so hopefully that feeling turns eventually.
even with local bike kitchens, we still have some smaller bike shops around where i live in the boston area. the smallest shop nearest me does refurbs and is focused on keeping local folks moving at reasonable prices. their whole thing is to get you on a bike at less than $400 that you can use and maintain for less than $400 a year. its very centered on community, safety and standard builds.
Thank you for making this video! It's been a tough few years for the bike industry, with high demand followed by too much inventory. I'm really lucky to have a local shop that I've been going to long enough that they know me. Sometimes they hook me up when I'm in a pinch and I need service fast. They are also a hub for the community, and I've made so many friends through the groups rides and other events. I'm also lucky to live near a major parts distributor (QBP), so my local shop can often get parts to me faster and more reliably than ordering online. Nice to see Terry and Earl Shoutout Behind Bars Bicycle Shop in Minneapolis
Cycle path did me right when I had my bike fit done for my BW Lolo. I had Velo Cult do the final build of my whip. Velo Cult was my neighborhood local bike shop. So sad to see VC go.
Yeah, I could never afford to buy a bike from Cyclepath but they are super nice about maintenance and have even just given me advice and showed me how to do the work. Great Shop!
I always buy used bikes, but all of my parts I let my local shops order and install. Always great to have someone around when my bike is really screwed, like recently I had a carbon fork that needed it's brake mounts faced, which would have cost $700 in parts. Unfortunately being rural I only have 1 shop within a 30 minute drive and most are 1-2hrs away.
This video was so timely as I'm in Portland at a conference and was looking for something to do in my downtime. Stopped by today and met some of the folks at Cyclepath. Also picked up a rotor truing tool. #ThanksDustin
Wow, Cyclepath has come a long way. I remember bringing my custom Ti Kish road bike in for a tune-up many years ago and the guy told me it wasn't "that kind of bike shop." lol They did the tune-up though. As far as the guy who thought he was living in the past with rim brakes and 23s, that's what the bike industry wants us to think so we continually spend our hard earned money on upgrading. Nothing wrong with buying a new bike, but there's no need to feel left behind. It's a trap and many are the ones falling into it. Love that drifter!
Frankly, I wish i were on your side of the world simply because of everything this video has put across. I'm rebuilding a 29er I've always wanted and this project will be complete in August... if all goes well.
I purchased both of my bikes through LBS and any parts that I need. I only purchase online if he can’t get the part or there is some delay and I need it asap. I’ve developed a great relationship with the guys there and they always go out of their way to help if I need something. I’m a big fan of supporting local businesses. Awesome video! 🙏
You should come across the river and talk with the guys over at Bike Clark County, great indy shop with a couple benches you can work on your own stuff at with their tools, and BINS of donated things you can put on your bike. Great resource in the community.
I have a mobile bike repair shop and do the farmers market on Saturdays from 8-12 noon. There is that 80/20 rule that 80% of your revenue comes from 20% of your customers. But that remainder 20% is not exactly on lucrative, when you're not paying $20 to $40 a square foot for a brick and mortar space.
My LBS went from pretty good inventory and deals on all kinds of bikes to CompanyStore. They went from taking in/helping out wiht all bikes for repairs and even rebuys/sells to only repairing that one companys bikes and no rebuy/sell at all. So. Well. Pretty bumbed out about that one.
Cyclepath has always been the best shop in PDX. Bought several bikes from Josh and Bill at the old location up the road. I know guys up in Quebec that bought from Bill.
My lbs sucks. They sponsor some local riders who are elitist and won’t ever talk to you, their parts are expensive and their servicing lazy. Bike shops like that deserve to go. However, spaces that exist to build community, serve great coffee, are a hub for repairs and racing and led rides are the sort that are thriving. Interestingly this trend is playing out across every bit of retail - it’s not about lowest costs wins, but best experience now. You can’t compete with the internet for cost.
Heading to LBS to get my tire-trunks looked at. Don't think that are staying closed like they're supposed to... But before that, I'm hitting the Subscribe Button. I've really enjoyed your last 2 years of content and I look forward to everything else to come from you and your squad.
Guess I need to visit Portland for new Bar Knobs and Wheel Trunks. My favorite Fort Worth shop (Bike Mart) doesn’t have any. Neither does Dallas Bike Works in Dallas. Huh?
I can't wait to see the next local shop! In Eugene, my go-to shop is Shift Community Cycles. They are a non-profit that promotes bike culture, has thousands of used parts, and they give bikes to kids! Also, they take old gems and rebuild them into pimp vintage rolling fun machines! Sexy!
LMFAO! Right? Like most things, Online: $20 vs LBS: $80. It's the same with all stores and I understand why because they have a lot of expenses with that building, inventory, employees and what not. The issue, however, it's not my problem! Most people aren't going to cater to an LBS and their 4x pricing out of pity or any other reason.
An issue im running into is the limited days/hours that my local shops are open. They seem to cater to people who don't work the M-F schedule. By the time im home from work there's 30 mins until they close then on weekends the hours are usually shorter. Because of this ill usually shop online since the convenience is unmatched. That said, ive learned a ton about bikes when ive gone into the shop and asked questions so really wish their hours were more flexible.
It must be a city thing to have good bike shops. Out in the sticks they are few and far between, and aren't all that great. My "LBS" is the REI - better than any of the other bike shops nearby.
Cool video, Dustin! But I’m tore apart but it. I love the general idea of support all local stuff. That is indeed very important, don’t get me wrong! I have a basic knowledge about how to keep my bike in a good shape. Considering this I mostly don’t go to the local bike shops for the following reasons: - no service at all (maybe in the US it is a thing but here in Germany the service is just very poor :/ ) - you have to make an appointment for even a very small thing which usually be around a week. If you are commuting by bike to work it’s no go (I’m speaking about changing a tyre or brake pads) - prices and bikes there. I have a DIY 90s Mountainbike and I don’t need all the new-fancy stuff but usually this is what all the new shops have I am just wondering whether it is just me in this part of the world who gave up on bike shops? 😅
I'd give a shout out to Duncan in El Paso at Crazy Cat and (not that he's second) Pablo at Outdoor Adventure's in Las Cruces. I moved so I don't feel so bad about ordering online; especially in a town with no actual bike shop.
I buy at least 60% of my bike stuff at my lbs. I want to keep them here as long as I can. Where would I take my bike to get the bottom bracket fixed without them. I know I’ll never ever be able crack the mysterious code that is proprietary standards.
LBS are there to make money, which is fine because they are a business. Amazon is nice since it allows people who like working on their bikes and save money. When buying a bike or doing a repair above one’s skills it is nice to go to a bike shop. I think I rather buy a bike at a shop vs online is because if I run into a problem I can take the bike back into the shop for repairs.
I would love to support my LBS, but they all only get parts from HLC, one of the big distributors here in Canada, and incidentally don't carry any of the brands I'm interested in. I try to buy as much of the consumable parts there as I can, when they stock it though.
You have to realize that not all LBS are created equal. A bike shop where I live owns about 5 or 6 stores (located in different towns, all nearby). They can charge whatever they want for parts and they just don't have the inventory compared to online stores. For repairs, you can just forget it. They take weeks to fix your bike. Go to a bike shop that is not a bike store chain. I'd rather drive 25 minutes to support the other "local" bike shop without the ego.
Bicycles have become increasingly more technically advanced over the years while simultaneously, bike shops have been getting their legs cut out from under them. Kid's bike sales going to big box stores, online retailers and bike brands going consumer direct.. thriving shops seem to be predominantly maintenance driven. There's an old saying in the bike biz: If you want to make a million in the bike industry, start with 2 million.
"why 1x"... "I don't want to give up the range". Exactly. I mean, it's not the range that's lost with 1x (it's the gear separation), but I get his point and agree.
one very important aspect of why European small shops continue to exist is low overhead . Owning and or living above the shop cuts overhead dramatically . The other big reason for longevity is it has to be a passion first , a lifestyle not a business that focus mostly on profit . I live in Germany and bought my bike from a shop in a tiny village that rarely sees customers . the owner has little to no overhead and loves hanging out in his shop . i can get immediate service even when it involves the big boys/ corporations as this guy has at least one personal contact at the bike companies that he can call and get an immediate result . you will never achieve that kind of attention if you buy on line just to save a few hundred dollars/Euros .
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That No.22 drifter build is unreal. 👌👌 PS loved this video.
My LBS has a community workshop. You can buy the parts and DIY, pay them to do it, or pay for the drop in time so you can have someone guide you through doing it yourself allowing you learn. It's super cool. I thought I was good at adjusting my disc brakes until I took some pointers from them and damn near went over the handlebars on the way home from the shop.
I think the key is finding the right night shop that fits you. Funny enough this video comes at a great time, I live close to a lot of great bike shops each that cater a different audience and none that I really fit that well into. I don’t have tons of money to toss into a new bike and would rather pick up one used and make it my own. Along with that I’m an avid DIY’er, and would much rather buy the tools and learn how to do the work then get it done at the mechanic (for most things).
I head into the closest shop recently to get a crank removal tool. The guy gives me a hard time taking about how I should just bring it in instead , and they don’t carry it because it’s a one time use tool… it’s the second time this month I’ve needed one. Figured that shop wasn’t the one for me and the next shop I go to for shifter cable housing, and some other oddities. The mechanic has to do the sale because the parts I needed were in his “section”. But the guy, who could just be very un charismatic, was very off putting about helping get the parts I needed.
Like I love supporting local businesses, but I will choose the best experience over locality. Over the course of the month I’ve spent over $200 on dodads that you need to build up a bike. Sure it’s not a at once $8000 new cervelo or moots, but if I enjoy the business you’ve got me for life and my word of mouth.
I hope the best for all LBS, but man does it stink to not feel welcome in some of them.
I love Cyclepath as a shop. The bikes they sell tend to be $$$, but they happily worked on my cobbled together 2010 hardtail-turned-gravel bike for very fair prices.
We need more shops that provide VALUE. It's ok if a shop is a little more than online as long as there is value they are providing.
Head mechanic turned shop owner? That's the World I want to live in. Great video!
You and me both!
Serendipity. My local bike shop put my new tubular tires on that I bought and new brake pads this week. The mechanic gave me back my old tubulars and told me I could use them as emergency in case of flat to get me home. Just pump up and go easy. Never knew this.
I love and support this vantage point. I’d rather give my local bike shops money than trek/corporate shops. I appreciate their love and knowledge and care.
Of all the shops in portland, i actually havent stopped at Cyclepath. Ill have to check em out, looks like a fantastic shop and cool guy. I love the LBS in portland. Thanks for putting me on to a new one!
@1:07 Silca Sicuro titanium bottle cages, I think. So cool.
The repair turnaround at my LBS is 3-4 weeks. Sometimes more. Needless to say, I’ve taught myself a lot of bike repair.
That's actually a good sign. 3-4 weeks is a bit too long, but it shows that people trust the shop and is charging reasonable rates. The empty bike shop is empty for a reason. Nobody sees the value.
Back in the 80’s Kawasaki Newcastle was the bike shop where BMX and skateboarders used to all meet up, make friends go off and find new places to skate and ride. I miss those days
Good to meet you today Dustin! Fun event at Cyclepath. Ride on!
That place looks great I’ll have to check them out next time I’m down from Washington!
My LBS sometimes feels so pretentious. I know an okay about bikes but sometimes I get stressed going there because I feel I get talked down to. I want to love it, so hopefully that feeling turns eventually.
Find another shop.
even with local bike kitchens, we still have some smaller bike shops around where i live in the boston area. the smallest shop nearest me does refurbs and is focused on keeping local folks moving at reasonable prices. their whole thing is to get you on a bike at less than $400 that you can use and maintain for less than $400 a year. its very centered on community, safety and standard builds.
Hell yeah this video is awesome!! bike shops are meccas! Super cool they are streaming terry's Florida adventure!
Thank you for making this video! It's been a tough few years for the bike industry, with high demand followed by too much inventory. I'm really lucky to have a local shop that I've been going to long enough that they know me. Sometimes they hook me up when I'm in a pinch and I need service fast. They are also a hub for the community, and I've made so many friends through the groups rides and other events.
I'm also lucky to live near a major parts distributor (QBP), so my local shop can often get parts to me faster and more reliably than ordering online.
Nice to see Terry and Earl
Shoutout Behind Bars Bicycle Shop in Minneapolis
Cycle path did me right when I had my bike fit done for my BW Lolo. I had Velo Cult do the final build of my whip. Velo Cult was my neighborhood local bike shop. So sad to see VC go.
Yeah, I could never afford to buy a bike from Cyclepath but they are super nice about maintenance and have even just given me advice and showed me how to do the work. Great Shop!
Beer on tap = good bike shop! I should have known the #1 selling item in PDX would be fenders lol
I always buy used bikes, but all of my parts I let my local shops order and install. Always great to have someone around when my bike is really screwed, like recently I had a carbon fork that needed it's brake mounts faced, which would have cost $700 in parts.
Unfortunately being rural I only have 1 shop within a 30 minute drive and most are 1-2hrs away.
I've heard bike shops make most of their money through service instead of sales, so letting them work on your bike is probably a huge help!
This video was so timely as I'm in Portland at a conference and was looking for something to do in my downtime. Stopped by today and met some of the folks at Cyclepath. Also picked up a rotor truing tool. #ThanksDustin
This is perfect!
Did you also check out Lottie’s?
No skin in that game just curious if it helped you find some grub.
@@EverythingsBeenDone not yet. I didn’t look up their hours and missed them by about 10 minutes. Hoping to go today after the conference closes.
@@EverythingsBeenDone I made it! It’s a cool space.
Nice shoutout to local Portland folks doin' the good work. Also, Ron's bar knobs.
Trying to spread a that love.
@2:23 Tailfin Aeropak rack. This shop has the good stuff.
Man that commuter bike is SWEET. Fixing to do something similar with a Creo 2.
Awesome vid. 8.21am here in Australia
Awesome episode. I’m watching in Texas. I guessed 28 pounds on the rowdy hard tail.
I love the channel
Wow, Cyclepath has come a long way. I remember bringing my custom Ti Kish road bike in for a tune-up many years ago and the guy told me it wasn't "that kind of bike shop." lol They did the tune-up though. As far as the guy who thought he was living in the past with rim brakes and 23s, that's what the bike industry wants us to think so we continually spend our hard earned money on upgrading. Nothing wrong with buying a new bike, but there's no need to feel left behind. It's a trap and many are the ones falling into it. Love that drifter!
Frankly, I wish i were on your side of the world simply because of everything this video has put across. I'm rebuilding a 29er I've always wanted and this project will be complete in August... if all goes well.
N+1 in Louisville is awesome. I just got a gravel bike there. The staff is great-super friendly and helpful!
Ron has the every-man's perspective on the LBS!
😂🤣
Awesome video!
Not exactly a regular bike shop, but Bike Farm would be really cool to see some behind the scenes of.
I purchased both of my bikes through LBS and any parts that I need. I only purchase online if he can’t get the part or there is some delay and I need it asap. I’ve developed a great relationship with the guys there and they always go out of their way to help if I need something. I’m a big fan of supporting local businesses. Awesome video! 🙏
Yay! Travis T and the Freewheel Hayes crew were the best! He got me into cycling beyond commuting! They also had the radest kits!
You should come across the river and talk with the guys over at Bike Clark County, great indy shop with a couple benches you can work on your own stuff at with their tools, and BINS of donated things you can put on your bike. Great resource in the community.
Much love to all the LBS‼️🫶
Teve for the win!
Back in the day we would drop into our local bike shop during a training ride just to hang out. Happy days.
You’re the man Dustin. Keep up the great work.
🤜❤️🤛 thank you Jeremie!!!
Great content. Thanks!
Tough choices for those of us who live in small, rural areas without local support.
I have a mobile bike repair shop and do the farmers market on Saturdays from 8-12 noon. There is that 80/20 rule that 80% of your revenue comes from 20% of your customers. But that remainder 20% is not exactly on lucrative, when you're not paying $20 to $40 a square foot for a brick and mortar space.
My LBS went from pretty good inventory and deals on all kinds of bikes to CompanyStore. They went from taking in/helping out wiht all bikes for repairs and even rebuys/sells to only repairing that one companys bikes and no rebuy/sell at all. So. Well. Pretty bumbed out about that one.
Cyclepath has always been the best shop in PDX. Bought several bikes from Josh and Bill at the old location up the road. I know guys up in Quebec that bought from Bill.
Ron gives the best advice.
🤣😂
Mudhugger! From my town Oldbury West Midlands!🤘🏼
that 22 rig is insannnnne
I love you music you use!
Thanks for this, Dustin!
My pleasure!
Love my LBS here is Harrisburg PA, Pedal Pusher Bike Shop, tell Paco I said hey when you stop in
Thanks!
Thank you!!
HELL YEAH EARL
He says "Giddy Up" 🤣
that n. 22 is wonderful !!
Looks like an amazing shop. But what is up with the weather over there? Also: DA on a commuter? FLEX!!!
Titanium frames… I just love ‘em
Cyclepath is the ONLY option for me in PDX. Love the video!
My lbs sucks. They sponsor some local riders who are elitist and won’t ever talk to you, their parts are expensive and their servicing lazy. Bike shops like that deserve to go. However, spaces that exist to build community, serve great coffee, are a hub for repairs and racing and led rides are the sort that are thriving. Interestingly this trend is playing out across every bit of retail - it’s not about lowest costs wins, but best experience now. You can’t compete with the internet for cost.
Great video as usual. Need more interviews with Ron and Niles. Interesting characters with lots to say.
Good call!
Y'all ever go ride by Kentucky Lake stop by Gear Up in Murray KY, a great shop with what you need 😊
Love what your doing , content is top shelf
Heading to LBS to get my tire-trunks looked at. Don't think that are staying closed like they're supposed to...
But before that, I'm hitting the Subscribe Button. I've really enjoyed your last 2 years of content and I look forward to everything else to come from you and your squad.
😂🤣
That Drifter bike was absolutely gorgeous. I just priced one up 16k! Even if i could afford it, I'd be afraid to use it. Stunning though
Freewheel was my local shop for 18+ years until I moved to Portland last year.
Guess I need to visit Portland for new Bar Knobs and Wheel Trunks.
My favorite Fort Worth shop (Bike Mart) doesn’t have any. Neither does Dallas Bike Works in Dallas.
Huh?
Dura Ace on a commuter is definitely the final boss commuter bike
I can't wait to see the next local shop! In Eugene, my go-to shop is Shift Community Cycles. They are a non-profit that promotes bike culture, has thousands of used parts, and they give bikes to kids! Also, they take old gems and rebuild them into pimp vintage rolling fun machines! Sexy!
8:03 VAN - Daihatsu Atrai Cruise 1991-92
Sugar Wheel Works would be a fun place to explore on your next video :)
Thank YOU ! *From Montreal, Quebec 💜
You are so welcome!
Wow that bike is absolutely beautiful 😮
I go to a local bikeshop to pay an unreasonable premium compared to online. In return I get ridiculed when asking something.
LMFAO! Right? Like most things, Online: $20 vs LBS: $80. It's the same with all stores and I understand why because they have a lot of expenses with that building, inventory, employees and what not. The issue, however, it's not my problem! Most people aren't going to cater to an LBS and their 4x pricing out of pity or any other reason.
literally
Yes... exactly
Find a better bike shop, like humans, they’re not all the same
@@joshuawitting1473 LOL! Yeah, not everyone lives in a place with 30 bike shops.
Raised during the Cold War, aerospace Ti frame is so cool to me
An issue im running into is the limited days/hours that my local shops are open. They seem to cater to people who don't work the M-F schedule. By the time im home from work there's 30 mins until they close then on weekends the hours are usually shorter. Because of this ill usually shop online since the convenience is unmatched. That said, ive learned a ton about bikes when ive gone into the shop and asked questions so really wish their hours were more flexible.
That's because they work regulars as you plus the limited weekend hours too, lol.
Sweet Final Fantasy 2 (or 4) callout!
The last time I considered taking one of my bikes to a shop, she responded with “there is no way you’d trust a shop to work on your bikes”. I
It must be a city thing to have good bike shops. Out in the sticks they are few and far between, and aren't all that great. My "LBS" is the REI - better than any of the other bike shops nearby.
Cool video, Dustin!
But I’m tore apart but it. I love the general idea of support all local stuff. That is indeed very important, don’t get me wrong!
I have a basic knowledge about how to keep my bike in a good shape. Considering this I mostly don’t go to the local bike shops for the following reasons:
- no service at all (maybe in the US it is a thing but here in Germany the service is just very poor :/ )
- you have to make an appointment for even a very small thing which usually be around a week. If you are commuting by bike to work it’s no go (I’m speaking about changing a tyre or brake pads)
- prices and bikes there. I have a DIY 90s Mountainbike and I don’t need all the new-fancy stuff but usually this is what all the new shops have
I am just wondering whether it is just me in this part of the world who gave up on bike shops? 😅
I use my local shop for what i can... but I'm pretty limited on things like bags ect
This episode was great!
Great video. Bike Shops to me are my happy place. Is that an e-bike you're riding? if so, what make and model?
I'd give a shout out to Duncan in El Paso at Crazy Cat and (not that he's second) Pablo at Outdoor Adventure's in Las Cruces. I moved so I don't feel so bad about ordering online; especially in a town with no actual bike shop.
I buy at least 60% of my bike stuff at my lbs. I want to keep them here as long as I can. Where would I take my bike to get the bottom bracket fixed without them. I know I’ll never ever be able crack the mysterious code that is proprietary standards.
Most shops around my tourist trap region have nothing in stock and are charging more than a premium for any service or parts. Kinda sad.
Terry B on the TV, when are we going to see a collab Dustin?
Shout out to Terry on tour in the background!
I like the 22 bike but for a custom geo. That's allot of stem spacers.
Gladys just announced closing, unfortunately timing. Still missing the vibe of Revolver too...
LBS are there to make money, which is fine because they are a business. Amazon is nice since it allows people who like working on their bikes and save money. When buying a bike or doing a repair above one’s skills it is nice to go to a bike shop. I think I rather buy a bike at a shop vs online is because if I run into a problem I can take the bike back into the shop for repairs.
love the low key ceramic speed reference... also local BSs are the shiiiiiiit
"How'd you get the wheel trunks over the bar knob?"
good video !!!
Glad you enjoyed it
Im still waiting on my 14tooth freewheel 😒
This is a cool video. Thanks.
I would love to support my LBS, but they all only get parts from HLC, one of the big distributors here in Canada, and incidentally don't carry any of the brands I'm interested in.
I try to buy as much of the consumable parts there as I can, when they stock it though.
My town has 2 LBS one might as well be a Trek dealer and the other might as well be a Giant dealer.
Ron's Pedal Hammerz™ - Since 1818
cool looking bike shop but my first impression was " Dude you need to cover that glass with security shutters at night."
You have to realize that not all LBS are created equal. A bike shop where I live owns about 5 or 6 stores (located in different towns, all nearby). They can charge whatever they want for parts and they just don't have the inventory compared to online stores. For repairs, you can just forget it. They take weeks to fix your bike. Go to a bike shop that is not a bike store chain. I'd rather drive 25 minutes to support the other "local" bike shop without the ego.
Going to visit some friends in Portland. Can you recommend SAFE places to ride? My friends say you have to be VERY careful and avoid much of the area.
Bicycles have become increasingly more technically advanced over the years while simultaneously, bike shops have been getting their legs cut out from under them. Kid's bike sales going to big box stores, online retailers and bike brands going consumer direct.. thriving shops seem to be predominantly maintenance driven.
There's an old saying in the bike biz: If you want to make a million in the bike industry, start with 2 million.
Cool episode.
"why 1x"... "I don't want to give up the range". Exactly. I mean, it's not the range that's lost with 1x (it's the gear separation), but I get his point and agree.
Agreed. Look at that reasonably sized cassette. He's got granularity for days!
one very important aspect of why European small shops continue to exist is low overhead . Owning and or living above the shop cuts overhead dramatically . The other big reason for longevity is it has to be a passion first , a lifestyle not a business that focus mostly on profit . I live in Germany and bought my bike from a shop in a tiny village that rarely sees customers . the owner has little to no overhead and loves hanging out in his shop . i can get immediate service even when it involves the big boys/ corporations as this guy has at least one personal contact at the bike companies that he can call and get an immediate result . you will never achieve that kind of attention if you buy on line just to save a few hundred dollars/Euros .