Hi all! I'm new to the forum and biking and I have a question. I'm buying a bike from a LBS. I was there about a 2 1/2 weeks ago and found the one I wanted. They didn't have it built yet but took my number and told me they would call me when it was ready. It's a small shop owned and operated by an older couple. I asked about how long it would take, but couldn't get a definitive answer. I know they're busy with repairs and maintenance and whatnot but it's still not done. Would it be rude if I asked if I could just take it in the box and put it together myself? All opinions are appreciated 👍

It was unclear in your post if you paid for the bike or put a down payment on it. If you just said, "call me when it's ready," I could easily it slipping in priority as new, paying customers came in.

If you paid for it, it would certainly be okay to call them and check on their progress getting it ready. If you didn't put any money down, it would also be okay for you to call them to remind them you are still interested and maybe show your interest by putting some money down. Have you even taken a test ride on a similar bike?

In general, I would have no problem putting together a bike that came in a box. I have the tools and the experience. I don't know if you are completely set up the put a bike together with both of those things.

Handing you a box of parts puts the bike shop owner in a difficult position. If he doesn't know you well enough (sounds like he doesn't) how could he be sure you would do a good job putting the bike together. You could wind up killing yourself!

Nah, not really. Usually putting a bike together from a box is pretty straightforward; handlebars, pedals, wheels. But often brakes shifting and such has to be adjusted. Would you be able to handle that kind of stuff? Even if you could, what kind of "warranty" would you expect from this little local bike shop owner?

I think I would call the guy, let him know your serious, ask how much longer you'd have to wait and go give the guy some money. If you can't be patient, or he turns out to be a jerk, maybe find another shop.

I would call them for an update. If you haven't already. I'm sure they are having issues related to the current state of the world, just as everyone is. It couldn't hurt to ask to take delivery of the bike and assemble it yourself, as long as you ask nicely. They may not want to, and that's their decision. As long as you respect that, I wouldn't think it rude. It's all in your approach and attitude.

If they are so busy they can't spend 15 minutes setting up a new bike, you may want to find a shop that is staffed adequately enough to do what they said they were going to do in a reasonable amount of time.