LBS deals vs. Bikes Direct / Nashbar?

[The Five Eight Five]

Is it possible to get a road bike with Shimano 105 or SRAM Apex components for around $1000 or less at any of the local bike shops in Arlington and Alexandria? Maybe this Fall when newer stuff comes out? Every time I’ve checked out a new bike shop and tell them my price point, they show me ~$1000 bikes with Claris or Sora.

I want to support LBS, but it’s tough when I see 105 and Ultegra on Bikes Direct for less than $1000. Am I much better off just ordering from BD or Nashbar at this price point? Thanks in advance!

Topic

[anomad]

@honestmachinery 164658 wrote:

Nothing wrong with Sora or Claris, either. Good luck wearing it out. Unless you plan to fix your own bike, get it from the LBS, and take advantage of the service after the sale. On the other hand, as most members of the choir preaching here have affirmed, learning to fix your own is the way to salvation.

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

Or Tiagra… I have an 18 year old RSX groupset still taking me to work everyday. Of course the consumable parts have been replaced a few times.

The brake hoods are worn super thin. I wonder if I can still find replacements?

[Author]

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