A moan!

[eldudino]

I've come to the conclusion that the now defunct LBS that I got my bike from through cyclescheme was a load of pants. Mild steel bolts holding on mudguards, badly adjusted gears when I got the bike, brake calipers not lined up with the disc etc.

It's all becoming aparent now I'm doing more miles and using the alternative LBS (who now do a C2W scheme) who are more than helpful in giving me advice when needed. I just wish they were doing the C2W at the time as I'd have bought from them in the first place!

Knowing more about bikes and LBS's now, I'd be much more tempted to buy from the former road-racer who may be a bit stand-offish (at first) rather than the regional chain who emply down-hillers who want to sell you shiny add-on bits!

 

[xpc316e]

I think that you have found out what a lottery LBS are. I often have contact with them on the course of my work, and I have come across a superb branch of Halfords where a very keen racer runs the bike department, a LBS with no interest at all in providing a quality service, and a few LBS who put their customers first and will do virtually anything to keep them happy. Forums are just the place to get a recommendation if you do not know of a good shop in your area.