[nzlug] 'MS Tax' versus Commerce Commission

[Denise Bates]

Michael Field wrote:

>  - A bicycle without any handlebars?  (aka The Euston Tube Tax)

A bad analogy!
* Top-of-the-line bicycles (if they aren't completely custom 
built) are often sold without a seat or pedals (or are supplied 
with "get-you-home" junk seats/pedals at no charge). Other 
components, including handlebars, can be swapped over without drama.
* Good vendors will allow quite a lot of customisation of 
medium-range bicycles (if they don't, serious cyclists will avoid 
patronising them).
* Only rubbishy chain-store bicycles are usually supplied in a 
manner analogous to the "Microsoft Tax" (you pay for, and take the 
whole box of s**t, no negotiations!).

Perhaps this reflects the relative status difference between Linux 
and high-quality bicycles <g>.

regards,
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Dr Denise J. Bates,
PO Box 50,
Meremere 2441
New Zealand
E-mail: dbates at iconz.co.nz
Telephone 09-2336433
Mobile 021-2541330
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