I looked long and hard for a road bicycle that I felt was a good value. Technically I could AFFORD the $1000 entry level bike that local bike shops had for sale, but if I'm spending $1000, I expect better than entry level! Used bikes were closer to the money I wanted to spend, but every single one I rode had significant defects that scared me away.
This led me to bikesdirect.com and competitor websites. I found bikesdirect to have more information, be generally better laid out that competitors, and have a better selection than competitors.
Once I ordered the bike, it was shipped promptly and delivered within 4 business days (well within thier estimated 3-7 day shipping). Quality of bike was as represented (off brand frame, all brand name driveline) and great care had clearly been taken to prevent damage. Damage still occured to front fork, going to try for resolution today.
If I had to do this whole search all over again, I would buy from bikesdirect again.