Why Buy From a Local Bike Shop?
You can sit on your couch, open a web browser, and search for a road bike or gravel bike. And a few clicks later, purchase a bike and have it shipped to your home. Or go to a local big box store and buy one from its showroom floor.
But with the cost of even a decent bike starting at $1,000, wouldn’t you instead find a local bike shop and see and feel what you’re buying? Wouldn’t you like to know that it’s been appropriately assembled with service and support to keep it on the road?
Why buy from a local bike shop? There are quite a few reasons.
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When it Comes to Buying a Bike, Seeing is Believing
Unless you’re experienced and know precisely what bike you want to buy, it just makes sense to visit a bike shop to see what you’re buying. Bike sizing is essential. For example, you need to ensure the bike fits your body to make your ride as enjoyable as possible.
Plus, there’s nothing like feeling the frame underneath you to ensure you’re comfortable. Many local bike shops will let you take the bike out for a spin to give you an even better feel for the fit.
In addition, no one wants just to buy a bike. Tons of cycling accessories make your ride even better … grips, saddles, bike helmets, cycling glasses, and cycling clothing.
So why limit yourself strictly to an online shopping experience when you see and feel everything for yourself? Nearby bike shop staff can give you good recommendations for bike gear to complement your experience.
Bikes Need To Be Built
Bikes typically require assembly. Does a box store have the same expertise in assembling your bike that a local bike store will have?
Their concern is getting the bike completed so it can go on the storeroom floor, and then selling the bike quickly. But experienced bike shop staff want to make sure you’re getting what you pay for.
Just as important, there are tools specifically designed for bike assembly. There’s a great deal of fine-tuning to assemble a bike that rides well and is mechanically sound. You want someone with experience putting your bike together.
There’s also the question of part quality. Will your brakes fail because of improper assembly? Will your tires go flat because of improperly installed bike tubes?
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A Bike Fitting Makes a Big Difference
A bike fitting is missing when you purchase a bike online. It’s essential to have your bike fit your body for many reasons. A proper bike fit will:
- Improve your overall comfort
- Prevent repetitive stress injuries
- Reduce fatigue
- Reduce saddle discomfort
- Reduce back, knee, and wrist pain
- Reduce hot foot
- Improve overall performance
A good local bike shop will offer professional bike fitting services.
Even Bikes Need Repairs
There is no question bikes aren’t as complex as sports cars. But like any other mechanical product, bikes eventually need repairs or fine-tuning.
Wheels, hubs, and brakes need periodic adjustments. The chains need replacement. Pivot points need lubrication. Unless you’re mechanically inclined, it pays to have a local bike repair shop that offers repairs.
You can also get tune-ups to ensure you get the most from your ride.
Even if you are mechanically inclined, you’ll need to get the right bicycle parts for repairs. A local bike shop with an experienced bike repair staff will ensure you get the right parts. They know what components fail and what brands provide the best solutions.
Cranksets, for example, can come with different chainring combinations, bottom brackets, and crank arm lengths. Having local expertise handy can make the difference between getting the right part or ordering a part online and having to return it.
By the way, see how quickly a box store or online purchase will help you with warranty issues. Your local bike store will make sure you’re taken care of.
Think Local When You Buy a Bike
You support small businesses and your community when you buy from a local bike shop. The dollars you spend at your local bike store support the local economy.
Plus, local bike shops support the community and can give tips on local bike events, biking trails, the best bikes for local riding conditions, and more. Local bike shop owners love passing on their cycling knowledge to you.
If you’re in the market for a new or used bike, do yourself a big favor. Check out your local bike shop. You have a lot to gain.
Our bike shop in Mt. Kisco has convenient access to major routes. Stop by or give us a call. We want to make sure you get the best bike for your needs.
