Where to Buy a Bike

Caveat Emptor

• Local Bike Shop (LBS)

  There's a saying in bike world: first find a shop you like, then buy the bicycle. Regardless of where you buy your bike, you are going to develop a relationship with your LBS.

  Look for a shop run by enthusiasts. You don't want to trust your ride to someone who's only wrenching because the barista thing "didn't work out."

  view pros & cons

  LBS Advantages	×Disadvantages
  Wide selection of models and sizes	Limited number of brands
  Community resource	Not all neighborhoods are equally well-served. Truly local options may be limited or non-existent.
  Friendly and knowledgeable staff	Hopefully
  Bikes available for test rides
  Wide variety of accessories available	More expensive compared to other options
  Set up, warranty and limited service with purchase

  
  

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• Discount Department Stores

  Department stores sell lingerie. Bike shops sell bicycles. Or put another way, you wouldn't go to a barber shop for a ham sandwich.

  In fairness, some of these stores fill a niche in areas underserved by traditional bike shops. But there are other alternatives.

  view pros & cons

  Dept. Store Advantages	×Disadvantages
  Less expensive compared to LBS	There's a reason Limited number of models and sizes Limited number of brands Untrained sales staff Limited variety of accessories No service

• Online (New and Used)

  Buying a new bicycle online offers some advantages and disadvantages. If you know exactly what you're looking for and you are dealing with a trusted seller, it can work out fine.

  Buying a previously-owned bike online offers some advantages and but also entails some risks. You have to know exactly what you are looking for – and what you are looking at.

  view pros and cons

  Online Advantages	×Disadvantages
  Infinite number of brands and models	Finding the bike you want may require both patience and luck (especially used bikes)
  Less expensive compared to other options	Cost of shipping may offset lower price
  	No test ride available
  DIY set-up	DIY set-up
  	Cost of LBS set-up may offset lower price
  	No service
  	Buyer may have to pay for return shipping (new bikes) Seller may not accept returns (used bikes)

• Previously Owned (In Person)

  Buying a previously-owned bike in person offers some advantages and but also entails some risks. You have to know what you are looking for – and what you are looking at.

  Occasionally you can find good deals at flea markets and garage sales. Shop and/or consult with a knowledgeable and cool-headed friend.

  If you are responding to a classified ad, DO NOT GO ALONE. Agree to meet in a public place and go with a friend.

  Caveat emptor.

  view pros & cons

  Used In-Person Advantages	×Disadvantages
  Infinite number of brands and models	Finding the bike you want may require both patience and luck
  Less expensive compared to other options	No service or warranty
  Test ride may or may not be available.

• Gift Bikes

  It happens more often than you'd think. A friend, roommate or colleague has a bike that they don't want or can't keep.

  While it's probably worth a look, the hardest part may be finding a way to graciously decline the offer ...

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