What criteria should we use to determine whether a local bike shop truly deserves our loyalty and admiration, beyond simply being local? Is it solely based on their ability to provide decent customer service, or should we be considering factors such as their expertise in bike maintenance and repair, their willingness to offer guidance and advice to riders of all skill levels, or their commitment to supporting local cycling events and initiatives?
Or is it more about the overall shopping experience, including the selection of products they carry, their pricing, and the ambiance of the store itself? Should we be prioritizing shops that cater specifically to our own riding style or preferences, or those that strive to be more inclusive and welcoming to riders from all backgrounds and disciplines?
Furthermore, how do we balance our desire to support local businesses with the often harsh reality that they may not always be able to compete with the prices and selection offered by larger online retailers? At what point do we draw the line between loyalty to our LBS and the need to make practical, cost-effective decisions as consumers?
Or is it more about the overall shopping experience, including the selection of products they carry, their pricing, and the ambiance of the store itself? Should we be prioritizing shops that cater specifically to our own riding style or preferences, or those that strive to be more inclusive and welcoming to riders from all backgrounds and disciplines?
Furthermore, how do we balance our desire to support local businesses with the often harsh reality that they may not always be able to compete with the prices and selection offered by larger online retailers? At what point do we draw the line between loyalty to our LBS and the need to make practical, cost-effective decisions as consumers?