I agree with everything you say (except the part about me being stupid). Nobody with any sense expects a dealer to have every part in stock. If I need a radiator screen/grab rail/ sprocket etc, for my bike I fully expect to have to wait for a part to come in. My original post spoke about aftermarket parts. I would think that if dealers would stock a better and wider selection of boots, jackets, fairings, performance parts, they would sell a hell of a lot more. I can't buy what I can't see or try on. Right not I'd like to buy as good pair of boots that offer track protection but don't look like they came off the set of Star Wars. I've been to no less that 12 dealers and haven't found anyone that stock more that a handful, and I'm talking 2-3 styles. I seen lots of what I'm looking for in magazines and on the internet but I'd rather buy them locally and try them on first.
I don't think any reasonable person would call a dealer a crook or a moron unless they earned the title. My experience is that when you explain to a customer, 8 out of 10 will understand and even appreciate what you've said, The other 2 are probanly happy to be unhappy and you wish them well as they walk out the door.