I used to cycle as a means of transportation. Much faster than walking, on par with the bus, paid for itself in six months from money saved in transit fees.

I would generally order nothing online because I didn't have the education or interest to know what I was buying or what needed done. Part of the value of a good, physical shop is the relationship you form with people and being able to trust their expertise. I definitely needed some one I could look in the eye, explain my problem, and ask them to solve it for me.

I don't say this to contradict you necessarily, especially in your primary point, just to offer a very different perspective.