Cope
Senior Member
- Location
- Wickham, Hampshire
So I spoke to three of the genuinely local bike shops - independent, non-chain, within 10 miles of home. My question: I'm interested in getting a Genesis Longitude... can you get one for me to try, please?
The answers?
LBS 1: No. Sorry.
LBS 2: No. Sorry.
LBS 3: Yes... but you have to pay a 50% non-refundable deposit.
OK, I get that it's a niche product, but if I were happy to spend £1000 on spec, I'd just search for the best online deal and pull the trigger. Why would I even bother with the effort of the LBS?
So, by contrast I gave the nearest Evans a call. Their answer? Sure: we don't have one at present but we can get one in a week. £50 refundable deposit, no commitment. What day would be best for you to come and ride it?
That's the kind of service I expect from a LBS. I'd really much rather support a smaller local company, but I'm now in the position where Evans is offering exactly what I want. Sad.
The answers?
LBS 1: No. Sorry.
LBS 2: No. Sorry.
LBS 3: Yes... but you have to pay a 50% non-refundable deposit.
OK, I get that it's a niche product, but if I were happy to spend £1000 on spec, I'd just search for the best online deal and pull the trigger. Why would I even bother with the effort of the LBS?
So, by contrast I gave the nearest Evans a call. Their answer? Sure: we don't have one at present but we can get one in a week. £50 refundable deposit, no commitment. What day would be best for you to come and ride it?
That's the kind of service I expect from a LBS. I'd really much rather support a smaller local company, but I'm now in the position where Evans is offering exactly what I want. Sad.