Yup, we collectors/enthusiasts know what great, high quality bikes these are. BUT, the general public thinks buying a new bike from a big box store at the same (or higher) price is better because it's "new"! Bikes have come to be seen as disposable items to the general public. "Buy it new. When it breaks, throw it out." - like a lot of other items these days that cost even more (dishwashers, refrigerators, etc.)
An anecdotal story from a former LBS owner I know. He once told me a big box home improvement chain was giving away free bikes when you spent a certain amout of money many years back. His shop was less than a mile a way. He'd get people bringing these bikes in broken before they were even ridden - literally stuff fell off as they were leaving the store. Of course, the home center would not take them back or do anything to assist, but it was a "new" bike!