In times like these

We know that our clients understand the value of supporting their local businesses. As such many of our loyal clients tell us why they choose us over the larger retail chains and the internet for everything from nutritional products to spare parts to bikes themselves. . But sometimes, particularly in hard economic times like these, even our best clients seek 'cheaper' prices or better deals elsewhere. Many find out saving 10% online, for example, is not worth the hassle or uncertainty of what they are going to get.

A case in point: The other day a customer of ours came into the shop to buy some new tires. Like most durable and high-quality
products good tires are not cheap. After all tires and tubes are made from oil. There are of course some cheap tires out there but this customer wanted something good. Initially, he told me later, he went online to find the same tires we recommended and sold to him 8 months earlier, but decided that the $10 savings for two tires was not worth it. He told me that 1) he wanted to ensure that we, as a small independent bicycle dealer, would be here next spring when he needed his bike tuned up and refitted and 2) he valued his relationship with the shop so much so that he'd rather pay $10 more and receive proper installation and selection while building a long-term relationship.

While we can't always compete on price alone, we know that we offer many things other cannot: the intangible suggestions on good bike routes, proper layering for the morning rides, the best and safest commute lights, proper ride fueling, etc. In the end, our clients realize that when they support us, we support them in return. Last minute services, on-the-fly flat repairs, so on and so forth, our bond and loyalty to our customers and their loyalty to us is what makes owning your own, local business so rewarding.

As always, we open our blog to your thoughts and feedback.

Scott
Founder/Partner