I have been happily using my PowerTap G3 hub for many years. I needed to change the battery but was unable to remove the battery cap due to damage to my cap removal tool. No problem though I figured I would contact my local bike shop and order a new one. I was surprised to find out that their distributor no longer carrier PowerTap their recommendation was to purchase directly through the PowerTap website. I decided to see if there was another local retailer first using the find a dealer function on the PT website but I did not show any dealers in Canada. I followed my LBS recommendation to make the purchase through the PT website and was horrified to find the have a flat rate international shipping charge of $45.00 for an $8 piece of plastic. A customer service representative informed me that they do not set the shipping rates and stated he would take my concern forward.
I admit that this is a rant but I am also wondering if PowerTap is changing their business model to an online only retail model. I love my PowerTap but if my local bike shop isn't going to be able to provide me with technical support I will be reluctant to use there product going forward. Is anyone working within the bicycle industry aware of this change or am I perhaps misinterpreting this situation.
I admit that this is a rant but I am also wondering if PowerTap is changing their business model to an online only retail model. I love my PowerTap but if my local bike shop isn't going to be able to provide me with technical support I will be reluctant to use there product going forward. Is anyone working within the bicycle industry aware of this change or am I perhaps misinterpreting this situation.