@John - Times have changed though. Back then online sales were nothing like they are now, there was Jensons and FTR and maybe a few others. Now there are big orgs like CRC, Wiggle and smaller yet still significant cats like Pushy's, Torp7, etc. and bikes shops also had to live with a few years of a very powerful AUD. With the AUD now sinking back to normal levels the bike retail industry might get a bit closer to the old normal again but the damage of the past few years is already done.
I agree in regards to their local competition. I used to like them but after the treatment I received in there from one young dickhead - seriously, it was either leave or suggest he step outside - I would have gone to BD every time.
The market has changed now though. I get my service from a local shop and buy a few things through them as they've been excellent to me in most departments but anything more than tubes, lubes and impulse buys I go online. Bike shops aren't a charity, they are a profit making venture and if they can't compete with the other guy they have to expect to go out of business.
Gotta change with the times, just ask blockbuster video, the milkman and your local posty.
@ marc - agree 100%