Matt Savage

I bought a Chris King headset on sale from CRC in the UK, with shipping, for ten bucks less than my LBS... CK is local... Does that still count for something?

Sent from Matt Savage's DynaTac 8000X...

On Mar 19, 2013, at 8:54 PM, Paul DeVries wrote:

> Keep this going this funny. Pure entertainment!
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> On Mar 19, 2013, at 6:45 PM, "Joe Zauner" wrote:
>
>> To all those people like Steve Scarich who think they can do their own research, reach their own conclusions and make purchases based on price and need with total disregard to long standing local bike shop business models, I say, who do you think you are?
>>
>> An individual?
>>
>> Someone capable of autonomous thinking and decisions making?
>>
>> Get back in line.
>>
>> I say to you, the scofflaws of buying local... No. I don't say. I DEMAND that you report to your nearest bike shop immediately and announce, "I (state your name) am here for you to determine my needs."
>>
>> And if it is determined that you, a 6-foot cyclist with a 34-inch inseam, needs a 47cm road bike with 600c wheels, you will open your wallet and hand over the cash, debit and credit cards required to pay for that bike in full.
>>
>> And for those who claim it's not possible to buy a locally made bicycle, I'd like to introduce you to my friend Nyguen Thoa from the province of Guangdong. His bike is 100-percent locally made and he should know. His 7-year-old sister works at the tire plant. So don't say it can't be done.
>>
>> Buy locally!
>>
>> Thank you, Joe.
>>
>> Sent from my iPhone
>>
>> On Mar 19, 2013, at 2:15 PM, "Paul DeVries" wrote:
>>
>>> Hahaha that is funny! Good job!
>>>
>>> Sent from my iPad
>>>
>>> On Mar 17, 2013, at 5:39 PM, "Amy" wrote:
>>>
>>>> So let me get this straight..
>>>>
>>>> You do all your bike part shopping online and assert that you know more about bike parts than the local bike shop employees.
>>>>
>>>> Pretty sure you're now in the category of every bike shop's least favorite customer.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Subject: Bike Gallery matches Internet Prices
>>>> Date: 03/15/2013 07:04 PM
>>>> From: Steve Scarich
>>>> I just read in the Oregonian, that BG will now match on-line pricing. This is a big deal; how are they going to compete, given that retailers wholesale prices are close to Internet prices? I know bike racers do all their shopping locally (: Obviously, BG is pretty desperate to take this step. I don't want them to fail, even though I admit that I do most of my shopping on-line. I still rely on my local retailers for special services (e.g. facing BB threads), but I have to admit the shop people usually know a lot less about bike parts than I do, and I am no expert.
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> OBRA mailing list
>>>> obra@list.obra.org
>>>> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>>>> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> OBRA mailing list
>>> obra@list.obra.org
>>> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>>> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>>
>> Sent from my iPhone
>>
>> On Mar 19, 2013, at 2:15 PM, "Paul DeVries" wrote:
>>
>>> Hahaha that is funny! Good job!
>>>
>>> Sent from my iPad
>>>
>>> On Mar 17, 2013, at 5:39 PM, "Amy" wrote:
>>>
>>>> So let me get this straight..
>>>>
>>>> You do all your bike part shopping online and assert that you know more about bike parts than the local bike shop employees.
>>>>
>>>> Pretty sure you're now in the category of every bike shop's least favorite customer.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Subject: Bike Gallery matches Internet Prices
>>>> Date: 03/15/2013 07:04 PM
>>>> From: Steve Scarich
>>>> I just read in the Oregonian, that BG will now match on-line pricing. This is a big deal; how are they going to compete, given that retailers wholesale prices are close to Internet prices? I know bike racers do all their shopping locally (: Obviously, BG is pretty desperate to take this step. I don't want them to fail, even though I admit that I do most of my shopping on-line. I still rely on my local retailers for special services (e.g. facing BB threads), but I have to admit the shop people usually know a lot less about bike parts than I do, and I am no expert.
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> OBRA mailing list
>>>> obra@list.obra.org
>>>> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>>>> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> OBRA mailing list
>>> obra@list.obra.org
>>> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>>> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
> _______________________________________________
> OBRA mailing list
> obra@list.obra.org
> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org

Paul DeVries

Keep this going this funny. Pure entertainment!

Sent from my iPhone

On Mar 19, 2013, at 6:45 PM, "Joe Zauner" wrote:

> To all those people like Steve Scarich who think they can do their own research, reach their own conclusions and make purchases based on price and need with total disregard to long standing local bike shop business models, I say, who do you think you are?
>
> An individual?
>
> Someone capable of autonomous thinking and decisions making?
>
> Get back in line.
>
> I say to you, the scofflaws of buying local... No. I don't say. I DEMAND that you report to your nearest bike shop immediately and announce, "I (state your name) am here for you to determine my needs."
>
> And if it is determined that you, a 6-foot cyclist with a 34-inch inseam, needs a 47cm road bike with 600c wheels, you will open your wallet and hand over the cash, debit and credit cards required to pay for that bike in full.
>
> And for those who claim it's not possible to buy a locally made bicycle, I'd like to introduce you to my friend Nyguen Thoa from the province of Guangdong. His bike is 100-percent locally made and he should know. His 7-year-old sister works at the tire plant. So don't say it can't be done.
>
> Buy locally!
>
> Thank you, Joe.
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> On Mar 19, 2013, at 2:15 PM, "Paul DeVries" wrote:
>
>> Hahaha that is funny! Good job!
>>
>> Sent from my iPad
>>
>> On Mar 17, 2013, at 5:39 PM, "Amy" wrote:
>>
>>> So let me get this straight..
>>>
>>> You do all your bike part shopping online and assert that you know more about bike parts than the local bike shop employees.
>>>
>>> Pretty sure you're now in the category of every bike shop's least favorite customer.
>>>
>>>
>>> Subject: Bike Gallery matches Internet Prices
>>> Date: 03/15/2013 07:04 PM
>>> From: Steve Scarich
>>> I just read in the Oregonian, that BG will now match on-line pricing. This is a big deal; how are they going to compete, given that retailers wholesale prices are close to Internet prices? I know bike racers do all their shopping locally (: Obviously, BG is pretty desperate to take this step. I don't want them to fail, even though I admit that I do most of my shopping on-line. I still rely on my local retailers for special services (e.g. facing BB threads), but I have to admit the shop people usually know a lot less about bike parts than I do, and I am no expert.
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> OBRA mailing list
>>> obra@list.obra.org
>>> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>>> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>> _______________________________________________
>> OBRA mailing list
>> obra@list.obra.org
>> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> On Mar 19, 2013, at 2:15 PM, "Paul DeVries" wrote:
>
>> Hahaha that is funny! Good job!
>>
>> Sent from my iPad
>>
>> On Mar 17, 2013, at 5:39 PM, "Amy" wrote:
>>
>>> So let me get this straight..
>>>
>>> You do all your bike part shopping online and assert that you know more about bike parts than the local bike shop employees.
>>>
>>> Pretty sure you're now in the category of every bike shop's least favorite customer.
>>>
>>>
>>> Subject: Bike Gallery matches Internet Prices
>>> Date: 03/15/2013 07:04 PM
>>> From: Steve Scarich
>>> I just read in the Oregonian, that BG will now match on-line pricing. This is a big deal; how are they going to compete, given that retailers wholesale prices are close to Internet prices? I know bike racers do all their shopping locally (: Obviously, BG is pretty desperate to take this step. I don't want them to fail, even though I admit that I do most of my shopping on-line. I still rely on my local retailers for special services (e.g. facing BB threads), but I have to admit the shop people usually know a lot less about bike parts than I do, and I am no expert.
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> OBRA mailing list
>>> obra@list.obra.org
>>> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>>> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>> _______________________________________________
>> OBRA mailing list
>> obra@list.obra.org
>> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org

Joe Zauner

To all those people like Steve Scarich who think they can do their own research, reach their own conclusions and make purchases based on price and need with total disregard to long standing local bike shop business models, I say, who do you think you are?

An individual?

Someone capable of autonomous thinking and decisions making?

Get back in line.

I say to you, the scofflaws of buying local... No. I don't say. I DEMAND that you report to your nearest bike shop immediately and announce, "I (state your name) am here for you to determine my needs."

And if it is determined that you, a 6-foot cyclist with a 34-inch inseam, needs a 47cm road bike with 600c wheels, you will open your wallet and hand over the cash, debit and credit cards required to pay for that bike in full.

And for those who claim it's not possible to buy a locally made bicycle, I'd like to introduce you to my friend Nyguen Thoa from the province of Guangdong. His bike is 100-percent locally made and he should know. His 7-year-old sister works at the tire plant. So don't say it can't be done.

Buy locally!

Thank you, Joe.

Sent from my iPhone

On Mar 19, 2013, at 2:15 PM, "Paul DeVries" wrote:

> Hahaha that is funny! Good job!
>
> Sent from my iPad
>
> On Mar 17, 2013, at 5:39 PM, "Amy" wrote:
>
>> So let me get this straight..
>>
>> You do all your bike part shopping online and assert that you know more about bike parts than the local bike shop employees.
>>
>> Pretty sure you're now in the category of every bike shop's least favorite customer.
>>
>>
>> Subject: Bike Gallery matches Internet Prices
>> Date: 03/15/2013 07:04 PM
>> From: Steve Scarich
>> I just read in the Oregonian, that BG will now match on-line pricing. This is a big deal; how are they going to compete, given that retailers wholesale prices are close to Internet prices? I know bike racers do all their shopping locally (: Obviously, BG is pretty desperate to take this step. I don't want them to fail, even though I admit that I do most of my shopping on-line. I still rely on my local retailers for special services (e.g. facing BB threads), but I have to admit the shop people usually know a lot less about bike parts than I do, and I am no expert.
>> _______________________________________________
>> OBRA mailing list
>> obra@list.obra.org
>> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
> _______________________________________________
> OBRA mailing list
> obra@list.obra.org
> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org

Sent from my iPhone

On Mar 19, 2013, at 2:15 PM, "Paul DeVries" wrote:

> Hahaha that is funny! Good job!
>
> Sent from my iPad
>
> On Mar 17, 2013, at 5:39 PM, "Amy" wrote:
>
>> So let me get this straight..
>>
>> You do all your bike part shopping online and assert that you know more about bike parts than the local bike shop employees.
>>
>> Pretty sure you're now in the category of every bike shop's least favorite customer.
>>
>>
>> Subject: Bike Gallery matches Internet Prices
>> Date: 03/15/2013 07:04 PM
>> From: Steve Scarich
>> I just read in the Oregonian, that BG will now match on-line pricing. This is a big deal; how are they going to compete, given that retailers wholesale prices are close to Internet prices? I know bike racers do all their shopping locally (: Obviously, BG is pretty desperate to take this step. I don't want them to fail, even though I admit that I do most of my shopping on-line. I still rely on my local retailers for special services (e.g. facing BB threads), but I have to admit the shop people usually know a lot less about bike parts than I do, and I am no expert.
>> _______________________________________________
>> OBRA mailing list
>> obra@list.obra.org
>> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
> _______________________________________________
> OBRA mailing list
> obra@list.obra.org
> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org

rondot@spiritone.com

Correct Brady. The policy was meant for people who really had legit
problems with equipment. I bought one of the first generation gore-tex
coats from them years ago. I had it about 9 months and it started
de-laminating big time. I took it back and got a new coat that lasted
years. That is what the policy is for. But I do not think it is totally
abused and they track everything on their database. THEY KNOW WHAT YOU
DO!!! REI=Big Brother?
Hey. We just got my rebate. Gotta get down there!
Honestly. I used a good portion of our rebate last year to purchase items
to raffle off at one of the Trail Work Days out at Cascade Locks EasyClimb.
I wonder if anyone tried to return an item they won? But hey. I also
purchased some items at Sellwood and they gave me a discount because I was
doing it for the raffle. Local business rocks. But the bigger companies
are also employing our neighbors.
ronnie

-----Original Message-----
From: Brady Brady
Sent: Tuesday, March 19, 2013 2:38 PM
To: Jordan Slone ; obra@list.obra.org
Subject: Re: [OBRA Chat] Bike Gallery matches Internet Prices

That's theft, not genius.

Brady

On 3/19/13 2:06 PM, "Jordan Slone" wrote:

>I knew someone who purchased a set of tires at REI, returning them
>every 3 months and rode on new/returned sets of tires for over 2
>years. Genius.
>
>On Tue, Mar 19, 2013 at 1:57 PM, Mike Murray wrote:
>> I heard that REI stood for "Return Every Item".
>>
>> Mike
>>
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: obra-bounces@list.obra.org [mailto:obra-bounces@list.obra.org] On
>> Behalf Of Eric
>> Sent: Monday, March 18, 2013 12:22
>> To: 'Steve Scarich'; obra@list.obra.org
>> Subject: Re: [OBRA Chat] Bike Gallery matches Internet Prices
>>
>> I'd agree with "a crazy return policy." When I broke the band on a
>>watch
>> purchased from REI, there were two options:
>> 1. Return the watch for full credit, even though it was two years old,
>>and
>> with no requirement to buy the new watch from REI; and, 2. Give up and
>>try
>> to find a new band elsewhere.
>>
>> Feeling guilty, I returned the watch, but at least bought the
>>replacement
>> from that REI.
>>
>> == Eric
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> -Pricing: Customers want good prices, but REI's prices are ridiculous.
>>They
>> get away with this by providing 'guaranteed satisfaction' and a crazy
>>return
>> policy.
>>
>> Steve Scarich
>>
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> OBRA mailing list
>> obra@list.obra.org
>> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> OBRA mailing list
>> obra@list.obra.org
>> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>
>
>
>--
>Jordan Slone
>Bon Appetit Management Company
>Sous Chef - Intel Ronler Acres RS5
>Mobile: (206)-708-9275
>_______________________________________________
>OBRA mailing list
>obra@list.obra.org
>http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>

_______________________________________________
OBRA mailing list
obra@list.obra.org
http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org

joec@aracnet.com

My sentiments exactly...

On 2013-03-19 14:38, Brady Brady wrote:
> That's theft, not genius.
>
> Brady
>
>
>
>
> On 3/19/13 2:06 PM, "Jordan Slone" wrote:
>
>> I knew someone who purchased a set of tires at REI, returning them
>> every 3 months and rode on new/returned sets of tires for over 2
>> years. Genius.
>>
>> On Tue, Mar 19, 2013 at 1:57 PM, Mike Murray
>> wrote:
>>> I heard that REI stood for "Return Every Item".
>>>
>>> Mike
>>>
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: obra-bounces@list.obra.org [mailto:obra-bounces@list.obra.org]
>>> On
>>> Behalf Of Eric
>>> Sent: Monday, March 18, 2013 12:22
>>> To: 'Steve Scarich'; obra@list.obra.org
>>> Subject: Re: [OBRA Chat] Bike Gallery matches Internet Prices
>>>
>>> I'd agree with "a crazy return policy." When I broke the band on a
>>> watch
>>> purchased from REI, there were two options:
>>> 1. Return the watch for full credit, even though it was two years
>>> old,
>>> and
>>> with no requirement to buy the new watch from REI; and, 2. Give up
>>> and
>>> try
>>> to find a new band elsewhere.
>>>
>>> Feeling guilty, I returned the watch, but at least bought the
>>> replacement
>>> from that REI.
>>>
>>> == Eric
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> -Pricing: Customers want good prices, but REI's prices are
>>> ridiculous.
>>> They
>>> get away with this by providing 'guaranteed satisfaction' and a
>>> crazy
>>> return
>>> policy.
>>>
>>> Steve Scarich
>>>
>>>
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> OBRA mailing list
>>> obra@list.obra.org
>>> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>>> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>>>
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> OBRA mailing list
>>> obra@list.obra.org
>>> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>>> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>>
>>
>>
>> --
>> Jordan Slone
>> Bon Appetit Management Company
>> Sous Chef - Intel Ronler Acres RS5
>> Mobile: (206)-708-9275
>> _______________________________________________
>> OBRA mailing list
>> obra@list.obra.org
>> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>>
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> OBRA mailing list
> obra@list.obra.org
> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org

Jordan Slone

If only text could display sarcasm... But on the other hand, REI
honored those returns. I was shocked that it went on as long as it
did. Apparently it ended when a customer service rep who was much more
bike savvy than the others noticed the ridiculous amount of returns in
their computer system and denied the guy. Regardless it's a funny
story and I could never see the same situation going down at a LBS.

-Jordan

On Tue, Mar 19, 2013 at 2:38 PM, Brady Brady wrote:
> That's theft, not genius.
>
> Brady
>
>
>
>
> On 3/19/13 2:06 PM, "Jordan Slone" wrote:
>
>>I knew someone who purchased a set of tires at REI, returning them
>>every 3 months and rode on new/returned sets of tires for over 2
>>years. Genius.
>>
>>On Tue, Mar 19, 2013 at 1:57 PM, Mike Murray wrote:
>>> I heard that REI stood for "Return Every Item".
>>>
>>> Mike
>>>
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: obra-bounces@list.obra.org [mailto:obra-bounces@list.obra.org] On
>>> Behalf Of Eric
>>> Sent: Monday, March 18, 2013 12:22
>>> To: 'Steve Scarich'; obra@list.obra.org
>>> Subject: Re: [OBRA Chat] Bike Gallery matches Internet Prices
>>>
>>> I'd agree with "a crazy return policy." When I broke the band on a
>>>watch
>>> purchased from REI, there were two options:
>>> 1. Return the watch for full credit, even though it was two years old,
>>>and
>>> with no requirement to buy the new watch from REI; and, 2. Give up and
>>>try
>>> to find a new band elsewhere.
>>>
>>> Feeling guilty, I returned the watch, but at least bought the
>>>replacement
>>> from that REI.
>>>
>>> == Eric
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> -Pricing: Customers want good prices, but REI's prices are ridiculous.
>>>They
>>> get away with this by providing 'guaranteed satisfaction' and a crazy
>>>return
>>> policy.
>>>
>>> Steve Scarich
>>>
>>>
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> OBRA mailing list
>>> obra@list.obra.org
>>> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>>> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>>>
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> OBRA mailing list
>>> obra@list.obra.org
>>> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>>> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>>
>>
>>
>>--
>>Jordan Slone
>>Bon Appetit Management Company
>>Sous Chef - Intel Ronler Acres RS5
>>Mobile: (206)-708-9275
>>_______________________________________________
>>OBRA mailing list
>>obra@list.obra.org
>>http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>>Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>>
>
>

--
Jordan Slone
Bon Appetit Management Company
Sous Chef - Intel Ronler Acres RS5
Mobile: (206)-708-9275

Brady Brady

That's theft, not genius.

Brady

On 3/19/13 2:06 PM, "Jordan Slone" wrote:

>I knew someone who purchased a set of tires at REI, returning them
>every 3 months and rode on new/returned sets of tires for over 2
>years. Genius.
>
>On Tue, Mar 19, 2013 at 1:57 PM, Mike Murray wrote:
>> I heard that REI stood for "Return Every Item".
>>
>> Mike
>>
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: obra-bounces@list.obra.org [mailto:obra-bounces@list.obra.org] On
>> Behalf Of Eric
>> Sent: Monday, March 18, 2013 12:22
>> To: 'Steve Scarich'; obra@list.obra.org
>> Subject: Re: [OBRA Chat] Bike Gallery matches Internet Prices
>>
>> I'd agree with "a crazy return policy." When I broke the band on a
>>watch
>> purchased from REI, there were two options:
>> 1. Return the watch for full credit, even though it was two years old,
>>and
>> with no requirement to buy the new watch from REI; and, 2. Give up and
>>try
>> to find a new band elsewhere.
>>
>> Feeling guilty, I returned the watch, but at least bought the
>>replacement
>> from that REI.
>>
>> == Eric
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> -Pricing: Customers want good prices, but REI's prices are ridiculous.
>>They
>> get away with this by providing 'guaranteed satisfaction' and a crazy
>>return
>> policy.
>>
>> Steve Scarich
>>
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> OBRA mailing list
>> obra@list.obra.org
>> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> OBRA mailing list
>> obra@list.obra.org
>> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>
>
>
>--
>Jordan Slone
>Bon Appetit Management Company
>Sous Chef - Intel Ronler Acres RS5
>Mobile: (206)-708-9275
>_______________________________________________
>OBRA mailing list
>obra@list.obra.org
>http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>

peter staiger

I disagree. I think that is taking advantage of a really good policy that
was clearly not intended to be used that way. It is probably hard enough
for a 'local' retailer to make money competing against the Internet without
having to deal with people who pull stuff like that.

Best regards,

Peter

--
Peter Staiger

Alta Enterprises, Inc.
1910 Bustle Creek Road
Alta, WY 83414

800.624.1235 Office
541.231.1238 Cell
541.230.1291 Fax
pstaiger@altaenterprises.com
www.altaenterprises.com

On Tue, Mar 19, 2013 at 2:14 PM, Paul DeVries wrote:

> Hahaha that is funny! Good job!
>
> Sent from my iPad
>
> On Mar 17, 2013, at 5:39 PM, "Amy" wrote:
>
> > So let me get this straight..
> >
> > You do all your bike part shopping online and assert that you know more
> about bike parts than the local bike shop employees.
> >
> > Pretty sure you're now in the category of every bike shop's least
> favorite customer.
> >
> >
> > Subject: Bike Gallery matches Internet Prices
> > Date: 03/15/2013 07:04 PM
> > From: Steve Scarich
> > I just read in the Oregonian, that BG will now match on-line pricing.
> This is a big deal; how are they going to compete, given that retailers
> wholesale prices are close to Internet prices? I know bike racers do all
> their shopping locally (: Obviously, BG is pretty desperate to take this
> step. I don't want them to fail, even though I admit that I do most of my
> shopping on-line. I still rely on my local retailers for special services
> (e.g. facing BB threads), but I have to admit the shop people usually know
> a lot less about bike parts than I do, and I am no expert.
> > _______________________________________________
> > OBRA mailing list
> > obra@list.obra.org
> > http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
> > Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
> _______________________________________________
> OBRA mailing list
> obra@list.obra.org
> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>

Paul DeVries

Hahaha that is funny! Good job!

Sent from my iPad

On Mar 17, 2013, at 5:39 PM, "Amy" wrote:

> So let me get this straight..
>
> You do all your bike part shopping online and assert that you know more about bike parts than the local bike shop employees.
>
> Pretty sure you're now in the category of every bike shop's least favorite customer.
>
>
> Subject: Bike Gallery matches Internet Prices
> Date: 03/15/2013 07:04 PM
> From: Steve Scarich
> I just read in the Oregonian, that BG will now match on-line pricing. This is a big deal; how are they going to compete, given that retailers wholesale prices are close to Internet prices? I know bike racers do all their shopping locally (: Obviously, BG is pretty desperate to take this step. I don't want them to fail, even though I admit that I do most of my shopping on-line. I still rely on my local retailers for special services (e.g. facing BB threads), but I have to admit the shop people usually know a lot less about bike parts than I do, and I am no expert.
> _______________________________________________
> OBRA mailing list
> obra@list.obra.org
> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org

Jordan Slone

I knew someone who purchased a set of tires at REI, returning them
every 3 months and rode on new/returned sets of tires for over 2
years. Genius.

On Tue, Mar 19, 2013 at 1:57 PM, Mike Murray wrote:
> I heard that REI stood for "Return Every Item".
>
> Mike
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: obra-bounces@list.obra.org [mailto:obra-bounces@list.obra.org] On
> Behalf Of Eric
> Sent: Monday, March 18, 2013 12:22
> To: 'Steve Scarich'; obra@list.obra.org
> Subject: Re: [OBRA Chat] Bike Gallery matches Internet Prices
>
> I'd agree with "a crazy return policy." When I broke the band on a watch
> purchased from REI, there were two options:
> 1. Return the watch for full credit, even though it was two years old, and
> with no requirement to buy the new watch from REI; and, 2. Give up and try
> to find a new band elsewhere.
>
> Feeling guilty, I returned the watch, but at least bought the replacement
> from that REI.
>
> == Eric
>
>
>
>
> -Pricing: Customers want good prices, but REI's prices are ridiculous. They
> get away with this by providing 'guaranteed satisfaction' and a crazy return
> policy.
>
> Steve Scarich
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> OBRA mailing list
> obra@list.obra.org
> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>
> _______________________________________________
> OBRA mailing list
> obra@list.obra.org
> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org

--
Jordan Slone
Bon Appetit Management Company
Sous Chef - Intel Ronler Acres RS5
Mobile: (206)-708-9275

Mike Murray

I heard that REI stood for "Return Every Item".

Mike

-----Original Message-----
From: obra-bounces@list.obra.org [mailto:obra-bounces@list.obra.org] On
Behalf Of Eric
Sent: Monday, March 18, 2013 12:22
To: 'Steve Scarich'; obra@list.obra.org
Subject: Re: [OBRA Chat] Bike Gallery matches Internet Prices

I'd agree with "a crazy return policy." When I broke the band on a watch
purchased from REI, there were two options:
1. Return the watch for full credit, even though it was two years old, and
with no requirement to buy the new watch from REI; and, 2. Give up and try
to find a new band elsewhere.

Feeling guilty, I returned the watch, but at least bought the replacement
from that REI.

== Eric

-Pricing: Customers want good prices, but REI's prices are ridiculous. They
get away with this by providing 'guaranteed satisfaction' and a crazy return
policy.

Steve Scarich

_______________________________________________
OBRA mailing list
obra@list.obra.org
http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org

eric aldinger

Sellwood Cycles, Fat Tire Farm, Veloce Cycles, Revolver, Oregon Bike Shop,
Universal Cycles, Rivercity Bicycles are places you can experience.
The internet you speak of is a mere concept you can imagine.

Empiricism tells us that concrete objects that can be experienced exist. So
shop at your LBS, and ask them to price match. They will not like you, but
that is a concept you can live with.

On Sun, Mar 17, 2013 at 6:23 PM, Heather VanValkenburg
wrote:

> Can someone who works at Bike Gallery make me some dinner tonight, please?
> Thanks!
>
>
> On Sun, Mar 17, 2013 at 6:18 PM, wrote:
>
>>
>> That being said there are a few bikes shops that stand out about the rest
>> and should be recognized for being some of the best. Cyclepath , Fat Tire,
>> River City, and Lucky 13 Bikes always has some cool Fixies!
>>
>>
>>
>> ------__o
>> ----_ \ {,
>> ---(_)/(_)
>> Thanks GC
>> 425-780-0374
>>
>>
>>
>> Sent from my iPhone
>>
>> On Mar 17, 2013, at 5:38 PM, Amy wrote:
>>
>> So let me get this straight..
>>
>> You do all your bike part shopping online and assert that you know more
>> about bike parts than the local bike shop employees.
>>
>> Pretty sure you're now in the category of every bike shop's least
>> favorite customer.
>>
>>
>> Subject: Bike Gallery matches Internet Prices
>> Date: 03/15/2013 07:04 PM
>> From: Steve Scarich
>> I just read in the Oregonian, that BG will now match on-line pricing.
>> This is a big deal; how are they going to compete, given that retailers
>> wholesale prices are close to Internet prices? I know bike racers do all
>> their shopping locally (: Obviously, BG is pretty desperate to take this
>> step. I don't want them to fail, even though I admit that I do most of my
>> shopping on-line. I still rely on my local retailers for special services
>> (e.g. facing BB threads), but I have to admit the shop people usually know
>> a lot less about bike parts than I do, and I am no expert.
>> _______________________________________________
>> OBRA mailing list
>> obra@list.obra.org
>> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>>
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> OBRA mailing list
>> obra@list.obra.org
>> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>>
>>
>
>
> --
> -Heather VanValkenburg
> "If you want to achieve triumph, you have to try a little umph!" -unknown
>
> _______________________________________________
> OBRA mailing list
> obra@list.obra.org
> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>
>

--
Eric Aldinger

rondot@spiritone.com

Some people hate REI. I think it serves a good purpose. It encourages many
people to do things outside most importantly. It is much different than
where it was born in Seattle, but still gets people outdoors. It supports
good causes. I use it most for things that perish and or just wear out.
The key is to not buy their stuff unless on sale. They make the dividend
through selling at list price. But they also provide jobs for people (like
LBS and even the chain bike shops) who live and spend here in our community.
We use our REI visa card for many purchases (other than REI) to balloon the
rebate.
It seems to me, people shopping online or at LBS is mostly an issue inside
people's minds. I think you might find there are people who work in local
shops who shop online (maybe not for bicycle related items)....so go figure.
If you want to be so fundamentalist with regard to buying local, you better
start getting all the steel, alum., CF, tires etc. made locally or just do
without. And also stop eating bananas unless Washington or Oregon grown!
The key is to do all "you" can to support your LBS, but also do what is
needed to take care of your own situation. It is not black or white. Give
people a break and also understand that chat lists are the perfect storm for
people to not just be misunderstood, but (like me) not always make their
point clearly.
Maybe go ride your bikes and say hello to people you come across?
ronnie

-----Original Message-----
From: Eric
Sent: Monday, March 18, 2013 12:22 PM
To: 'Steve Scarich' ; obra@list.obra.org
Subject: Re: [OBRA Chat] Bike Gallery matches Internet Prices

I'd agree with "a crazy return policy." When I broke the band on a watch
purchased from REI, there were two options:
1. Return the watch for full credit, even though it was two years old, and
with no requirement to buy the new watch from REI; and,
2. Give up and try to find a new band elsewhere.

Feeling guilty, I returned the watch, but at least bought the replacement
from that REI.

== Eric

-Pricing: Customers want good prices, but REI's prices are ridiculous. They
get away with this by providing 'guaranteed satisfaction' and a crazy return
policy.

Steve Scarich

_______________________________________________
OBRA mailing list
obra@list.obra.org
http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org

Eric

I'd agree with "a crazy return policy." When I broke the band on a watch
purchased from REI, there were two options:
1. Return the watch for full credit, even though it was two years old, and
with no requirement to buy the new watch from REI; and,
2. Give up and try to find a new band elsewhere.

Feeling guilty, I returned the watch, but at least bought the replacement
from that REI.

== Eric

-Pricing: Customers want good prices, but REI's prices are ridiculous. They
get away with this by providing 'guaranteed satisfaction' and a crazy return
policy.

Steve Scarich

SaltWoodEarth

This is not even an imperfect analogy...it's comparing apples and
oranges. REI has roughly 125 stores in 31 states and has sales that
exceeded $1.8 billion in 2009.* The other 'successful retailer's
examples you cite - Starbucks, Safeway, Performance - are enormous
national/global businesses. You cannot compare their business
practices and resources to a sole proprietorship or local chain. The
point of supporting a local business is to keep your money circulating
in the local economy, to support local jobs and to help keep your
neighborhood and city strong. We've all seen what Wal-Mart and Costco
have done to small town, main street businesses...do we feel good
about that as we saved a few bucks here and there?

If you want the salesperson to engage you, ask them questions. If you
are more knowledgeable than they are, help them learn. You like that
you get spammed frequently from the 'other' retailers to tell you
about their specials? Have some reasonable expectations about the
resources a small business can provide and then also think about the
fact that you get to know who these people are and how they're
supporting all of the things you love about living and cycling in the
PNW and as part of OBRA.

*"Recreational Equipment Inc., commonly known as REI, is a privately
held American retail corporation organized as a consumers'
cooperative, selling outdoor recreation gear, sporting goods, and
clothing via some 125 retail stores in 31 states, catalogs, and the
Internet.[5] The company opens four to six new stores each year.
[citation needed] REI's sales exceeded US$1.8 billion in 2009." --
from Wikipedia at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/REI

- Andy

On Mar 18, 2013, at 8:41 AM, Steve Scarich wrote:

> This has been an interesting discussion, despite some of the snarky
> comments that people have made to me. BTW, I am not the guy who
> goes into the bike shop for free advice or to try on shoes to
> determine correct size to order on-line. I do buy stuff at bike
> shops, but am on a limited income, so buy on-line a lot, too. I
> thought I might compare a success story (REI) with the bike
> industry. Coincidentally, I joined REI the same year that I started
> riding for the Berkeley Bicycle Club, l970.
> -Customer Service: customers are frustrated with bad information
> from bike shops. Bike specifications have changed so much in the
> past decade, that it is almost impossible for one person to have all
> the answers. REI staff are not all experts. In fact, many don't
> know much, but they always have at least one expert in the house, so
> they can turn to him/her for accurate information. We all appreciate
> it when a salesperson says 'I don't know the answer but I will get
> it for you'. Another thing that I have noticed is that in successful
> bike shops, the owner is rarely on the floor. This is a loss of a
> tremendous amount of knowledge. I know they don't want to work 'out
> front' all day, but they could be available or walk the store
> frequently to meet customers.
> -Sales Techniques: I worked in the bike industry for many years,
> including retail, and I can tell you that bike shop staff rarely, if
> ever, get training in how to sell. Sorry, there is more to selling
> than just providing information and opinion. Learn to listen and
> draw the customer out. Meet their needs.
> -Pricing: Customers want good prices, but REI's prices are
> ridiculous. They get away with this by providing 'guaranteed
> satisfaction' and a crazy return policy. The other thing that REI
> and most other successful retailers (Starbucks, Safeway,
> Performance, etc.), do is give customer rewards for loyalty. Maybe
> some bike shops do this, but I have never heard of it.
> -Outreach: REI sends me an e-mail every month about their in-house
> events, and other retailers send me e-mails about specials, new
> products, etc. I have just recently started getting the occasional
> Facebook posting about bike shop specials.
>
> I know REI is not a perfect analogy and I admit I don't know all the
> issues that LBS face, but I think the discussion is worth having.
>
> Steve Scarich
> _______________________________________________
> OBRA mailing list
> obra@list.obra.org
> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org

Steve Scarich

This has been an interesting discussion, despite some of the snarky comments that people have made to me. BTW, I am not the guy who goes into the bike shop for free advice or to try on shoes to determine correct size to order on-line. I do buy stuff at bike shops, but am on a limited income, so buy on-line a lot, too. I thought I might compare a success story (REI) with the bike industry. Coincidentally, I joined REI the same year that I started riding for the Berkeley Bicycle Club, l970.
-Customer Service: customers are frustrated with bad information from bike shops. Bike specifications have changed so much in the past decade, that it is almost impossible for one person to have all the answers. REI staff are not all experts. In fact, many don't know much, but they always have at least one expert in the house, so they can turn to him/her for accurate information. We all appreciate it when a salesperson says 'I don't know the answer but I will get it for you'. Another thing that I have noticed is that in successful bike shops, the owner is rarely on the floor. This is a loss of a tremendous amount of knowledge. I know they don't want to work 'out front' all day, but they could be available or walk the store frequently to meet customers.
-Sales Techniques: I worked in the bike industry for many years, including retail, and I can tell you that bike shop staff rarely, if ever, get training in how to sell. Sorry, there is more to selling than just providing information and opinion. Learn to listen and draw the customer out. Meet their needs.
-Pricing: Customers want good prices, but REI's prices are ridiculous. They get away with this by providing 'guaranteed satisfaction' and a crazy return policy. The other thing that REI and most other successful retailers (Starbucks, Safeway, Performance, etc.), do is give customer rewards for loyalty. Maybe some bike shops do this, but I have never heard of it.
-Outreach: REI sends me an e-mail every month about their in-house events, and other retailers send me e-mails about specials, new products, etc. I have just recently started getting the occasional Facebook posting about bike shop specials.

I know REI is not a perfect analogy and I admit I don't know all the issues that LBS face, but I think the discussion is worth having.

Steve Scarich

Heather VanValkenburg

Can someone who works at Bike Gallery make me some dinner tonight, please?
Thanks!

On Sun, Mar 17, 2013 at 6:18 PM, wrote:

>
> That being said there are a few bikes shops that stand out about the rest
> and should be recognized for being some of the best. Cyclepath , Fat Tire,
> River City, and Lucky 13 Bikes always has some cool Fixies!
>
>
>
> ------__o
> ----_ \ {,
> ---(_)/(_)
> Thanks GC
> 425-780-0374
>
>
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> On Mar 17, 2013, at 5:38 PM, Amy wrote:
>
> So let me get this straight..
>
> You do all your bike part shopping online and assert that you know more
> about bike parts than the local bike shop employees.
>
> Pretty sure you're now in the category of every bike shop's least favorite
> customer.
>
>
> Subject: Bike Gallery matches Internet Prices
> Date: 03/15/2013 07:04 PM
> From: Steve Scarich
> I just read in the Oregonian, that BG will now match on-line pricing. This
> is a big deal; how are they going to compete, given that retailers
> wholesale prices are close to Internet prices? I know bike racers do all
> their shopping locally (: Obviously, BG is pretty desperate to take this
> step. I don't want them to fail, even though I admit that I do most of my
> shopping on-line. I still rely on my local retailers for special services
> (e.g. facing BB threads), but I have to admit the shop people usually know
> a lot less about bike parts than I do, and I am no expert.
> _______________________________________________
> OBRA mailing list
> obra@list.obra.org
> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> OBRA mailing list
> obra@list.obra.org
> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>
>

--
-Heather VanValkenburg
"If you want to achieve triumph, you have to try a little umph!" -unknown

grantcollins@ymail.com

That being said there are a few bikes shops that stand out about the rest and should be recognized for being some of the best. Cyclepath , Fat Tire, River City, and Lucky 13 Bikes always has some cool Fixies!

------__o
----_ \ {,
---(_)/(_)
Thanks GC
425-780-0374

Sent from my iPhone

On Mar 17, 2013, at 5:38 PM, Amy wrote:

> So let me get this straight..
>
> You do all your bike part shopping online and assert that you know more about bike parts than the local bike shop employees.
>
> Pretty sure you're now in the category of every bike shop's least favorite customer.
>
>
> Subject: Bike Gallery matches Internet Prices
> Date: 03/15/2013 07:04 PM
> From: Steve Scarich
> I just read in the Oregonian, that BG will now match on-line pricing. This is a big deal; how are they going to compete, given that retailers wholesale prices are close to Internet prices? I know bike racers do all their shopping locally (: Obviously, BG is pretty desperate to take this step. I don't want them to fail, even though I admit that I do most of my shopping on-line. I still rely on my local retailers for special services (e.g. facing BB threads), but I have to admit the shop people usually know a lot less about bike parts than I do, and I am no expert.
> _______________________________________________
> OBRA mailing list
> obra@list.obra.org
> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org

grantcollins@ymail.com

I have to agree with Steve on some points. Why would I pay $100 more for a XTR RD in a LBS when I can get that savings online. It's all fine and dandy to get brake pads and cables at LBS, but when they charge full list MSRP for high end parts it's hard not to go else where. I too am no bike shop expert. But many times I've had to educate LBS's on parts and their installment. Example would be I had a custom builder shop tell me that my 9speed Ultegra shifter wouldn't work with my XTR 9speed RD. I finally had to come down to the shop and show them. Today, I had to ask a very reputable LBS not to hang my Yeti by the saddle with a dropper seat post while changing the tires, I had to tell them the fat tire went in front and the skinny went in the rear. LBS are not paying their mechanics $60,000 a year and it shows. IN MY OPINION! LBS could watch online pricing especially with two local huge online warehouses right smack dab in the middle of Portland and available to walk in public. Consumers are smarter these days, so should be the LBS.

------__o
----_ \ {,
---(_)/(_)
Thanks GC
425-780-0374

Sent from my iPhone

On Mar 17, 2013, at 5:38 PM, Amy wrote:

> So let me get this straight..
>
> You do all your bike part shopping online and assert that you know more about bike parts than the local bike shop employees.
>
> Pretty sure you're now in the category of every bike shop's least favorite customer.
>
>
> Subject: Bike Gallery matches Internet Prices
> Date: 03/15/2013 07:04 PM
> From: Steve Scarich
> I just read in the Oregonian, that BG will now match on-line pricing. This is a big deal; how are they going to compete, given that retailers wholesale prices are close to Internet prices? I know bike racers do all their shopping locally (: Obviously, BG is pretty desperate to take this step. I don't want them to fail, even though I admit that I do most of my shopping on-line. I still rely on my local retailers for special services (e.g. facing BB threads), but I have to admit the shop people usually know a lot less about bike parts than I do, and I am no expert.
> _______________________________________________
> OBRA mailing list
> obra@list.obra.org
> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org

Amy

So let me get this straight..

You do all your bike part shopping online and assert that you know more about bike parts than the local bike shop employees.

Pretty sure you're now in the category of every bike shop's least favorite customer.

Subject: Bike Gallery matches Internet Prices
Date: 03/15/2013 07:04 PM
From: Steve Scarich
I just read in the Oregonian, that BG will now match on-line pricing. This is a big deal; how are they going to compete, given that retailers wholesale prices are close to Internet prices? I know bike racers do all their shopping locally (: Obviously, BG is pretty desperate to take this step. I don't want them to fail, even though I admit that I do most of my shopping on-line. I still rely on my local retailers for special services (e.g. facing BB threads), but I have to admit the shop people usually know a lot less about bike parts than I do, and I am no expert.

Mike Rosenfeld

Steve,

They will be fine. Its not like they will become the peoplepc.com of the
internet or anything.

Did you read that they are now owned by a guy out of California, who has
done the exact same pricing down there for years, and judging by his
ability to purchase the Bike Gallery, it seems to be working just fine.

If you don't like dealing with shop people you should find an internet
reseller of a frame prep/repair tool kit and shut the hell up...and I mean
that with all due respect.

Regards.

Mike

On Fri, Mar 15, 2013 at 7:04 PM, Steve Scarich wrote:

> I just read in the Oregonian, that BG will now match on-line pricing.
> This is a big deal; how are they going to compete, given that retailers
> wholesale prices are close to Internet prices? I know bike racers do all
> their shopping locally (: Obviously, BG is pretty desperate to take this
> step. I don't want them to fail, even though I admit that I do most of my
> shopping on-line. I still rely on my local retailers for special services
> (e.g. facing BB threads), but I have to admit the shop people usually know
> a lot less about bike parts than I do, and I am no expert.
> _______________________________________________
> OBRA mailing list
> obra@list.obra.org
> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>

Joec

There are a few wrenches I literally trust with my life. No internet retailer I can say that about, IMHO.

Sent from my MOTOROLA ATRIX™ HD on AT&T

Steve Scarich wrote:

>I just read in the Oregonian, that BG will now match on-line pricing. This is a big deal; how are they going to compete, given that retailers wholesale prices are close to Internet prices? I know bike racers do all their shopping locally (: Obviously, BG is pretty desperate to take this step. I don't want them to fail, even though I admit that I do most of my shopping on-line. I still rely on my local retailers for special services (e.g. facing BB threads), but I have to admit the shop people usually know a lot less about bike parts than I do, and I am no expert.
>_______________________________________________
>OBRA mailing list
>obra@list.obra.org
>http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
>Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>

Steve Scarich

I just read in the Oregonian, that BG will now match on-line pricing. This is a big deal; how are they going to compete, given that retailers wholesale prices are close to Internet prices? I know bike racers do all their shopping locally (: Obviously, BG is pretty desperate to take this step. I don't want them to fail, even though I admit that I do most of my shopping on-line. I still rely on my local retailers for special services (e.g. facing BB threads), but I have to admit the shop people usually know a lot less about bike parts than I do, and I am no expert.