The Cycling Industry Part 1

In this series of posts, I will give you my opinion of the current state of the industry and where I think it needs to go. Sounds like a bold statement coming from one person. I'd be the first to admit that it is. I also firmly believe that I have always looked at things differently and have always tried to not march lock-step with everyone else. So, sit back and take it all in. And, as always, let me know what you think. Your comments are always welcome. The current bike shop as we all know, has over the years, gone thru relatively minor changes. You can walk into just about any shop in the US and there would be less than a handful that would stand out as being unique. Most are stuck in the rut of doing the same thing that they were doing in the 90's with the exception of maybe a computerized point of sale system. I'd make a bet that you chance of experiencing at least one of the following would be better than 90%... -A major attitude if you bring in a mail order catalog. -More floor space dedicated to bikes than anything else. -A minimum of 3 tattoos and 2 piercings. -A staff with an average age of 19. -The "Mechanics" having less than 2 years of experience. -An owner with a bad attitude towards the major bike producers. For the most part, nothing has changed in the last decade, with the exception that now, more than ever, there are fewer shops and that they are dropping like flys... To be continued...