High wages and high rents have always been with us in New York City, but the Internet and catalog blizzard has not. Small bike shops are scrambling to resist this global onslaught, which has made Newman resort to gallows humor. But people will always want to sit on a bike before buying it, or try on helmets and shoes, or get information and help from knowledgeable staff. After all, Newman says, New Yorkers shop aggressively, always looking for a deal. Some people think they find it in catalogs, where the shipping costs can total less than the sales tax of a part bought in his store.
Some products require precise fittings found only with trained mechanics and salespeople.
Only one was the correct part. The company refused to take them back. People see a commercial during a race on ESPN and order, say, a shifter. The commercial never explained that the derailleur also must be the right one or they won't function together. A lot of customers end up disappointed.