Bob asks : I’m struggling between being a good supporter of my LBS and keeping my budget/bike stuff spending in check. I know I need to support my LBS and buy stuff from them. But it’s tough to justify when they sell everything at MSRP and I can find most of the items online for 10-25% less. Is it fair to ask for a discount from the LBS? or does that make me an ass? I don’t expect them to match the prices but maybe we could meet in the middle somewhere. To be clear, I think I’m a pretty decent customer. I buy parts from them because I know I’m going to need their help when I inevitably screw up what I’m working on. I’m very comfortable paying for labor and my LBS guys are great about sharing their knowledge. My friend from the LBS even came to speak at my work when I hosted a seminar on bike commuting.
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