In a message dated 11/14/06 1:35:26 PM, Dale writes:
>
> This all may be drifting Off Topic but the connection is that somehow I
> think that shops like mine, Jeff Groman's, Jeff Archer's, Mike Barry's and many
> other CR members' will become as rare as the vintage bikes that bring us
> together on this list if the trend continues....
>
Sorry, that last message got sent prematurely...
As I was saying, an LBS here in Columbus has always stressed good service to new customers, good followup service, friendly treatment of kids who just need a flat fixed, heck, they even treat you nice if you come in with a Walmart bike. On top of all that, they serve the high-end about as well as anybody... the place is a great hang-out for anyone into bikes... cold drinks in the fridge, friendly conversation, race videos to loan out, and lots of nice bikes and parts to browse.
The point is, they don't serve any particular niche, they just try to provide good service to everyone. And because of it, they've continued to grow... Mike took over the shop from his dad in the late 70's so he's been around a while... but he says this is his best year ever.
Like many vintage steel guys, I tend to be pretty cynical about new bikes... but not about bike shops, not if Cd'O or Mike's are an indication of what's out there.
Bob Hovey
Columbus, GA USA