Absolutely, price transparency exists in most areas thanks to the internet.
It sure does give the customer the upper hand, forums and other dealers (all over the country) can be researched for price and availability in a matter of minutes. Local stores have to bring their prices closer to internet ones to keep customers.
A luxury is just that, something you DON'T need, groceries and electricity are needs. Why not throw out a low-ball price to see if you can get it? I know it stinks, and I get it when selling something privately, some offers are downright INSULTING, but that is how many play the game. There is more than just a low price when buying something, but I fix nearly everything myself so dealer support is not nearly as important to me as it is to some, and no longer is a local dealer needed for parts, all can be had online.
I have been looking around for Utility vehicles. Leaning towards the Kawasaki Mule diesel, I called many dealers and expected to hear some good numbers due to this economic slow down (new car sales down 50%), but they were not exceptional, most selling for $500 over their cost [so they say] (on a $10,500) unit, most who I spoke with said they make money on accessories and service. With such a small spread between dealer cost and selling price, I don't see any killer deals on these units, are there more in other power sports categories?