Well the BD bike was mostly put together except mounting the front wheel and installing the handlebar and hooking up the brakes. If you do the initial assembly take it to your LBS and for a fee (depends on your shop) they will give it a good going over. The front wheel bearings on mine were too tight and I adjusted the cones and also the headset was too snug. These are things to talk over with them if you go that route. Good luck on whatever you decide and have fun thats the most important thing.