I agree with that, except I'm not sure that the typical LBS can, or at least will bother, to get you the Brooks model you want. Many of the owners and staff of today's MTB or BMX oriented shops probably never heard of Brooks or will distain Brooks because of the weight. Very few of us are fortunate enough to live near great shops like CdO or Harris, or those owned by other list members. Until returning to Houston a year and a half ago, I lived for ten years in rural areas where the cycling was great, but where there were very few shops, let alone classic-oriented ones. Mail order/ internet purchases were pretty much the only way to get anything even a little specialized. Let's not forget that Rivendell is essentially a mail order/ internet operation, and Lickton's is mostly mail order. And Harris probably does an important percentage of business by mail. Even Dale will sell a few things by mail from time to time. If I lived near a town with a great classic shop, I'd certainly give them all the business I could, but those like Rivendell who sell good quality classic-type goods at fair prices by mail deserve some support, too.
Regards,
Jerry Moos
I do a lot of mail order business over the net. However, may I point out
that your LBS can get you any kind of Brooks Saddle you want, and if you
have a good relationship with them, they will give you about as good a price
as internet folks and you won't have to pay shipping. Ya, I know about
sales tax. The point I am making here is if you have a good relationship
with a LBS, you'd better get them what business you can. Life isn't easy
for these folks...you either use a business you value or you lose a business
you value. Use the net for what you must or what is much cheaper, but
remember all the times a local bike shop has done you a favor or helped you
out in some way. Aren't you glad they're there? They sure add to my
cycling enjoyment.
Just my two cents worth,
Tom Sanders
Lansing, Mi