Bike parts/accessories/apparel and ebay

[Tank]

I appreciate that some retailers pass on the savings - however a lot dont (and thats OK too - its their business).

What annoys me is that buying from a retailer in the US and shipping it 1/2 way around the world IS generally cheaper. The buy "NZ" bit dosnt really apply because the only part of the chain is the NZ retailer - and he is the one with the huge margins.

A lot more retailers in NZ need to know that they are compeating with stores on ebay / trademe etc and need to change their model and become more competitive.

(no offence to retailers on here that ARE competitive)

[98tls]

Best thing i ever did was become a member on a world-wide website primarily devoted to the same bike that i ride,guys who live all over the world with contacts all over the world,i have bought so much stuff through that site..much of it second hand but in great nick.You also get alot of one-off stuff made by clever buggers that you just cant buy here,as for ebay i think its awsome and have never had a problem with being ripped off.I used to try and support kiwi businesses but just gave it away.I once rang a NZ bike wrecker regarding a TLR clutch to put in my S..$400 he wanted,i offered him less but he was adamant i wouldnt get it any cheaper..i ended up getting one from Germany for $150 to my door.

[imdying]

Try striking up a relationship with people at a shop instead of wandering in and going "Gimme" and then getting annoyed when you get a frosty response.

WTF? That's how you get a 'special' price, not how you should have to operate just to get a 'reasonable' price.