I can't speak to the "support female staff" aspect, but we are always so torn -- mail order for parts has better prices, but when we really get into trouble with bikes, there are a couple of shops that have very cheerfully repaired, fixed, given advice, etc. Yeah, their markup on parts is enormous, but maybe worth it.
also, when the husband had a defective Specialized frame a couple of years ago, the bike shop where he bought it totally went to the mat for him with the manufacturer and he ended up with a new frame. so i guess the local shop is a good thing. despite the markup.
unless you're a great mechanic your own self.
and i bought my shoes from the shop -- i don't dare buy shoes without trying them on. again, the markup. but it was worth it.
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branchandroot
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Date: 2010-03-31 11:20 pm (UTC)also, when the husband had a defective Specialized frame a couple of years ago, the bike shop where he bought it totally went to the mat for him with the manufacturer and he ended up with a new frame. so i guess the local shop is a good thing. despite the markup.
unless you're a great mechanic your own self.
and i bought my shoes from the shop -- i don't dare buy shoes without trying them on. again, the markup. but it was worth it.