Sus prices from bike shop in Fitzroy

[John L]

Rang a very well known bike shop in Fitzroy chasing prices for a folding bike. I was quoted the same
price, $2,099 twice on a special order.

I wanted a particular frame colour with a better groupset. When I enquired on a more serious level
today, suddenly the story changed & the price went up $300. & I could no longer get a different
coloured frame.. Maybe a mere coincidence that all the dealers attended a distributor conference in
Sydney on Thursday.

I was told by two dealers the distributoer didn't like the frame colours being equipped with
different equipment to their advertisedr range, as it "confused the market" This is particularly
strange as the bike is supplied in different equipment levels & colours all round the world.. It
also appeared that pressure had been applied by the distributor to stop discounts being offered.

I could be wrong, but I think the ACCC would take a dim view on the actions of the distributor.
I rang several outlets & was quoted the RRP for all models on every occasion, even when pressed
strongly for a discount.. Fairly strange in a market where discounts are usually offered
without asking.

My LBS will do the deal but wants to charge me an extra $200 on top of the $2,399 for the top of the
range model, because he would have to buy two bikes from the distributor & change the parts over,
leaving him with a another bike he may not readily be able to sell.

Suddenly the Birdy with the green frame doesn't look that attractive.

John L.

 

[David Bailey]

The dealer sets a RRP that ensures the LBS makes a margin that affords him a living.

 

[John L]

I have never been guilty of putting any LBS out of business, My family, friends & myself have bought
over 40 bikes from my LBS "Strathpine Bicycle Centre"over a period of 15 years.

What I object to is the sudden price change after a dealer "conference".

I would have preferred to buy the bike from my LBS, but they are not included in the Birdy
dealer network.

I have decided to go with the Brdy Silver from a new local dealer Epic Cycles, who have also loooked
after me very well.

Old story, if someone treats you well you tell your friends, if you get a bum deal, you warn
your friends.

John L.

On Thu, 11 Sep 2003 02:29:56 GMT, "David Bailey" <[email protected]> wrote:

>The dealer sets a RRP that ensures the LBS makes a margin that affords him a living.