POSITIVE experiences with cycling-related businesses
#201
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I have to put a good word in for Richard at Bicycle Fixation. I bought a pair of $132 knickers ($110 now), wore them for 6 months, almost exclusively for 10 weeks on tour, had the button fall off and another thread. I emailed him and he sent me another pair free, no questions. In short, awesome products and customer service.
#202
LBKA (formerly punkncat)
Join Date: Jan 2010
Location: Jawja
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My LBS, Epic Bikes in McDonough, GA is very nice. They have a great selection, a very helpful staff, good mechanics, and the best rides in the area IMO. Pretty much a one stop shop. The few items that they don't carry the owner has been helpful enough to make suggestions on the best places online to get them. They have also been very helpful to myself and a friend in sourcing some NOS and used items. Really nice to have such a quality shop nearby, I have supported them with a majority of my cycling purchases being made there.
#203
Senior Member
I live in Denver, CO and have found that nearly all bike stores I have been to have been knowledgeable and friendly. I have been to Treads, wheatridge Cyclery, Bicycle Village (Littleton), Bike Source (Littleton), Mojo, Performance Bike (littleton),and Westside Bicycles. As far as pricing and selection goes I think that Bicycle Village, Wheatridge Cyclery, and Performance Bike to be the best. For the best customer service I found Treads, wheatridge cyclery, Mojo to be the best. Mojo which is a MTB only store even offered to special order me a cyclocross for cheaper than any other store quoted me. The only store that seemed to be a little on the snobish side was Performance Bike(Littleton), and coincedentally the also had the smallest selection of brands and even makes while seeming to be slightly pricier on comparable models.
*another forum member asked for the info on Mojo Wheels but I couldnt directly respond to his private message as I have yet to reach the 50 post mark that appearently allows you to send private messages so here is the info.
Mojo Wheels
High Performance
Mountain Bike Specialists
https://mojowheels.com/
(303)986 8216
5790 W Dartmouth Ave
Denver, CO 80227
Mon-Fri 10-7
Sat 9-6
Sun 11-5
*another forum member asked for the info on Mojo Wheels but I couldnt directly respond to his private message as I have yet to reach the 50 post mark that appearently allows you to send private messages so here is the info.
Mojo Wheels
High Performance
Mountain Bike Specialists
https://mojowheels.com/
(303)986 8216
5790 W Dartmouth Ave
Denver, CO 80227
Mon-Fri 10-7
Sat 9-6
Sun 11-5
Last edited by Mondo734; 01-18-12 at 01:08 AM.
#204
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My local Giant dealer is only about 2 km from me. They have been great! Always friendly, helpful, and fast. Always knock a few bucks off the list price. Just met the owner's girlfriend/wife (not sure if they're married) last night after speaking to her on the phone about whether or not they would have my daughters new e-bike ready. She acted as though she'd known me for years and I had been a customer forever (actually 2 years). If you're ever in Tainan, Taiwan, they're at 320 Zhong Hua Road, Yong Kang District, Tainan City.
#205
Junior Member
Join Date: Aug 2011
Location: Salt Lake City, UT
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Bikes: 2018 Specialized Epic Comp Carbon, 1989 Cannondale ST-400, forthcoming SaltAir Cycles Gravel Bike :D
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I don't know if anyone has yet, but 30th Century Bicycle in Iowa City, IA deserves high praise/props. They try to find ways to realize your impractical or idiosyncratic pipe-dreams, instead of just thinking of limitations. Also, just generally super-nice.
#206
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Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Fritch, Tx
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I'll play
I'll hop in this bandwagon. The most recent experience was with Bicycle Outfitters Indy. I ordered two Continental Gatorskin tires from them on Saturday (through Amazon) and was fully expecting them to arrive sometime toward the end of the estimated Feb. 16--24 time frame. Nope them boogers came in the mail today. They had very low pricing with very low shipping costs. I am very pleased with the deal.
Next up; I had a pretty good experience with Nashbar last summer when I decided to purchase a maintenance tool set. Ended up with a very nice set of tools all in one case that should serve me well for a number of years.
Also last summer, when I was in the midst of regearing my road bike, I ordered a new 9-spd cassette from Universal Cycles online. Again the order arrived much sooner than I expected and the quality of the product appears to be top-notch.
touche' to these three suppliers!!!!
Next up; I had a pretty good experience with Nashbar last summer when I decided to purchase a maintenance tool set. Ended up with a very nice set of tools all in one case that should serve me well for a number of years.
Also last summer, when I was in the midst of regearing my road bike, I ordered a new 9-spd cassette from Universal Cycles online. Again the order arrived much sooner than I expected and the quality of the product appears to be top-notch.
touche' to these three suppliers!!!!
#207
Senior Member
what a day
Im in central northern California. Both of the LBS near me have the same owners they just carry different brands at each store. My experience just happened today. It started out very bad. I ordered a Cannondale Caadx 6 two weeks ago, the manufacturer said it would arrive today, it didn't. Turns out after hours of waiting today, there was an error in the availablity for that bike in my size. It is not available ....I'm sure you can imagine my frustration at this point having waited this long for the bike already to hear I may have to choose another bike and wait some more. Before I could even begin to express my frusteration the salesman I have been working with called their Cannondale Rep, asked if the Caadx 5 was available and in stock in my size, it was, he then spoke with the GM of the store and worked out a killer price cut for me. Im getting a nicer bike for close to the same price as the one I already paid for. I feel very fortunate to have had someone on the inside providing me with the best possible customer service without me having to ask.....what a day
Last edited by grindr82; 02-24-12 at 09:41 PM.
#208
Geck, wo ist mein Fahrrad
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went into Rocky Mountain Cyclery in Loveland Colorado to order a sram brake hood cover that was mangled in a crash. manager took a look at my mangled arms, knee and busted fingers and gave me a free helmet! nice guys!
#209
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Join Date: Mar 2012
Location: Alberta, Canada
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I love my LBS. The guys at Bike Bros. are awesome. The staff have been the same for a long time and they are great to deal with. https://www.bikebros.ca/
I also have good things to say about Peccoes in Hull, Quebec. Very nice people there too. They fitted my new hybrid and listen to my concerns and needs for my new custom bike even tho I didn't buy the most expensive one.
I also have good things to say about Peccoes in Hull, Quebec. Very nice people there too. They fitted my new hybrid and listen to my concerns and needs for my new custom bike even tho I didn't buy the most expensive one.
#210
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Bikesdirect.com has been great to me. Purchase a Fuji Absolute 2.0 and a Motobecane Cafe Latte from them. Everything was pretty well adjusted. Tires true etc. Only has to adjust the brakes and rear derailleur slightly. Had a creaking sound coming from the handlebar on my Fuji, but Bikesdirect.com sent me another stem and it solve the problem. Will definitely purchase from again. Great service and bikes!
My local REI has been pretty helpful in answering all of my questions and helping me with finding the right parts for my bikes. Very helpful.
Erik's Bike Shop has offer me great service with parts for my bike. The employees there are very helpful and always ask if you need any assistance when you walk in. Very helpful and knowledgeable.
My local REI has been pretty helpful in answering all of my questions and helping me with finding the right parts for my bikes. Very helpful.
Erik's Bike Shop has offer me great service with parts for my bike. The employees there are very helpful and always ask if you need any assistance when you walk in. Very helpful and knowledgeable.
#211
a student and his bike
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im not sure if this fits into the catergory but ive experienced amazing service from Felt. every time i have emailed them with questions regarding frame and warranty they respond within 2- 3 hours and are superbly nice.
#213
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We have also had positive experiences with ...
Chain Reaction Cycles ... *Chain Reaction Cycles | MTB | Road | TRI | Run
Wiggle ... wiggle.com.au | Cycle | Run | Swim | Tri-Sports & Bike Shop
Torpedo7 ... Outdoor Adventure Gear Online in Australia | Torpedo7
Anaconda ... Anaconda: Australia?s largest camping, adventure & sports superstore
Decathlon ... Decathlon : vente d'articles, vêtements et chaussures de sport. Magasins de...
Cycling Deal ... Bikes Online - Australia's Leading Online Bike Store | Cycling Deal
Chain Reaction Cycles ... *Chain Reaction Cycles | MTB | Road | TRI | Run
Wiggle ... wiggle.com.au | Cycle | Run | Swim | Tri-Sports & Bike Shop
Torpedo7 ... Outdoor Adventure Gear Online in Australia | Torpedo7
Anaconda ... Anaconda: Australia?s largest camping, adventure & sports superstore
Decathlon ... Decathlon : vente d'articles, vêtements et chaussures de sport. Magasins de...
Cycling Deal ... Bikes Online - Australia's Leading Online Bike Store | Cycling Deal
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Rowan
My fave photo threads on BF
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Last edited by Machka; 10-29-14 at 04:47 PM.
#214
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Bump
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Rowan
My fave photo threads on BF
Century A Month Facebook Group
Machka's Website
Photo Gallery
Rowan
My fave photo threads on BF
Century A Month Facebook Group
Machka's Website
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#215
Zip tie Karen
Join Date: Aug 2009
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Papillon Cycles on Columbia Pike in Arlington, VA. The owner and crew are first rate bicycle guys. Their corporate memory dates far back and they are up on current technology, too. Terrific service and they've been very helpful to me. I asked the owner, Bailey, to build a set of wheels for my wife's bike, brought him the rims and hubs, and he took care of the rest. He took them home to build in his "spare" time for us.
I would go far out of my way to them if I needed any help with a bike.
I would go far out of my way to them if I needed any help with a bike.
Last edited by Phil_gretz; 08-18-15 at 07:58 AM. Reason: spelling
#216
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Location: Buffalo, NY
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Bump!
Nashbar has been excellent for me.
Bike Tires Direct has been the best for me for a new set of tires and tubes for my bikes
Green Guru Gear has some really cool upcycled bags and panniers made from things like recycled tires and tents.
Smart Bike Parts has a ridiculous amount of parts from pedals to lights, at a good price.
In Buffalo, I like to go to Northstar Bikes on Eggert Road for any repair work. Great little shop they have, with fast service.
When I need a part fast, I head to Bert's Bikes on Transit. While a little pricey, he has a great stock of stuff and the service is always excellent.
Nashbar has been excellent for me.
Bike Tires Direct has been the best for me for a new set of tires and tubes for my bikes
Green Guru Gear has some really cool upcycled bags and panniers made from things like recycled tires and tents.
Smart Bike Parts has a ridiculous amount of parts from pedals to lights, at a good price.
In Buffalo, I like to go to Northstar Bikes on Eggert Road for any repair work. Great little shop they have, with fast service.
When I need a part fast, I head to Bert's Bikes on Transit. While a little pricey, he has a great stock of stuff and the service is always excellent.
Last edited by MikeinBuffalo; 08-18-16 at 12:08 PM. Reason: grammar
#217
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Most recently used sites have been Wiggle.com and REI.com.
Wiggle has some of the best prices iv found so far. I was hesitant to use them though since theyre over seas - returns and wait time for orders. My order actually got here in 6 days, and the tracking was excellent. Free shipping for $50^, also. I dont think i would go through the trouble of returning things though, so what ill buy from them will be limited to components only.
I live one mile from REI so if they dont have what i want in store, ill order it and opt for free store pick up (usually only takes up to 4 days). They have amazing sales, super easy returns, and great membership deals/sales etc. Not to mention great classes you can take (some are free, others not. Register and pay, if needed, by site also). They do the bike work I cant yet also, and so far have been able to do it quickly while i wait.
Wiggle has some of the best prices iv found so far. I was hesitant to use them though since theyre over seas - returns and wait time for orders. My order actually got here in 6 days, and the tracking was excellent. Free shipping for $50^, also. I dont think i would go through the trouble of returning things though, so what ill buy from them will be limited to components only.
I live one mile from REI so if they dont have what i want in store, ill order it and opt for free store pick up (usually only takes up to 4 days). They have amazing sales, super easy returns, and great membership deals/sales etc. Not to mention great classes you can take (some are free, others not. Register and pay, if needed, by site also). They do the bike work I cant yet also, and so far have been able to do it quickly while i wait.
#218
U.I.O.G.D.
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Eastern Townships, Quebec, Canada
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Bikes: Bassi Hog's Back gravel/bikepacking, Bombtrack Hook 2 gravel, Marinoni Genius/Campy Record, Marinoni Special EL-OS/Campy Record (retired to permanent indoor trainer), Rocky Mountain hybrid, Rocky Mountain mtb Cervelo R3 Team/Campy Chorus FOR SALE
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C&L Cycle in Montreal. Great little shop. Just did a splendid job building a new CF Marinoni for me, and building new wheels on my vintage steel Marinoni.
Of course it helps that my son is 1/3 owner of the business and is their chief mechanic
But they are a great friendly bunch whether you're buying an expensive CF bike, a city commuter bike (home brands: Bassi and Villeneuve) or just dropping in for an espresso.
Of course it helps that my son is 1/3 owner of the business and is their chief mechanic
But they are a great friendly bunch whether you're buying an expensive CF bike, a city commuter bike (home brands: Bassi and Villeneuve) or just dropping in for an espresso.
#219
Senior Member
Sun & Ski in Ballantyne Commons (Charlotte). Jack (bike manager) and Massimo (bike mechanic) are among the best guys I've met. Jack is in charge of the store's group ride on Sunday's and Massimo is just awesome. He's willing to take the time to explain or provide non-biased information. He is always willing to help and knows his craft.
Bike Depot of Waxhaw. This shop and the people are great! They host the Champagne ride on saturdays and it's the best group ride I've done. Great service, great people, great atmosphere and the provide breakfast, mimosas, and beer after the ride. Their mechanics are great as well. They arrive early on Saturdays to assist riders before the ride. What else is there to say!
Bike Depot of Waxhaw. This shop and the people are great! They host the Champagne ride on saturdays and it's the best group ride I've done. Great service, great people, great atmosphere and the provide breakfast, mimosas, and beer after the ride. Their mechanics are great as well. They arrive early on Saturdays to assist riders before the ride. What else is there to say!
#220
Senior Member
Both Grove Street Cycles and Jersey Cycles are located in Jersey City. I have used both from minor maintenance to bigger jobs and they both have been great, and fast.
#221
Life is good
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I recently sold my Vision Metron 55 wheels. They came on my Cannondale but it turned out I'm not a fan of deep wheels.
I purchased a set of custom hand-built alloy wheels from PSIMet.com. I have spinal stenosis and Robert, the owner, was very helpful in explaining everything about the the various component I could select from for the most comfortable ride.
I've been riding on the wheels for 2+ months and I have to say I love the wheels. Some days I think they're more comfortable than the hand-built Mavic Open Pro wheels I've had on my Litespeed since 2009/2010.
Thank you Robert and PSIMet.com for a set of awesome wheels.
And Robert is a Bike Forums member (@Psimet2001) too.
I purchased a set of custom hand-built alloy wheels from PSIMet.com. I have spinal stenosis and Robert, the owner, was very helpful in explaining everything about the the various component I could select from for the most comfortable ride.
I've been riding on the wheels for 2+ months and I have to say I love the wheels. Some days I think they're more comfortable than the hand-built Mavic Open Pro wheels I've had on my Litespeed since 2009/2010.
Thank you Robert and PSIMet.com for a set of awesome wheels.
And Robert is a Bike Forums member (@Psimet2001) too.
__________________
The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. - Psalm 103:8
I am a cyclist. I am not the fastest or the fittest. But I will get to where I'm going with a smile on my face.
The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. - Psalm 103:8
I am a cyclist. I am not the fastest or the fittest. But I will get to where I'm going with a smile on my face.
#222
Senior Member
There is new shop in town and since I live a couple of miles from it decided to take a ride that way. It turns out it's more of a boutique shop. They use carbon and steel frames and build your bike for you. Not sure who supplies their frames. They were cool despite having bikes I wouldn't buy due to price. I said they needed a website and couldn't find them on google. In fact the only reason I knew about them was word of mouth. He said yeah that's what we want. I said well you won't do much business like that, he said that's the idea, it allows us to focus on the customer. They really have appreciation and passion for all bikes, very different in today's market.
Anyways, I get my new wheels slap them on my bike and notice the back wheel is a little out of true, decide to ride em anyway. 1 mile into ride I realize it's really out of true. I open up the rear caliper and head to the new LBS. I'm hoping and thinking they won't be busy and be able to true it on the spot. He was working on a bike, told him my problem and he quoted me a price (25 dollars). I said would he take 23 as that's all the bike money I had. FYI, bike money is money not detected on bank card statements (cash). He said he could do that, trued my wheels and I finished my ride. Btw, the two other two shops in town charge 15 dollars a wheel but they'd take a couple of days. Oh and He was cool enough to charge 22 dollars so I could have a dollar in my seat bag. The end.
Anyways, I get my new wheels slap them on my bike and notice the back wheel is a little out of true, decide to ride em anyway. 1 mile into ride I realize it's really out of true. I open up the rear caliper and head to the new LBS. I'm hoping and thinking they won't be busy and be able to true it on the spot. He was working on a bike, told him my problem and he quoted me a price (25 dollars). I said would he take 23 as that's all the bike money I had. FYI, bike money is money not detected on bank card statements (cash). He said he could do that, trued my wheels and I finished my ride. Btw, the two other two shops in town charge 15 dollars a wheel but they'd take a couple of days. Oh and He was cool enough to charge 22 dollars so I could have a dollar in my seat bag. The end.
Last edited by texaspandj; 08-20-16 at 07:34 AM.
#223
Unlisted member
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I purchased a set of custom hand-built alloy wheels from PSIMet.com. I have spinal stenosis and Robert, the owner, was very helpful in explaining everything about the the various component I could select from for the most comfortable ride.
I've been riding on the wheels for 2+ months and I have to say I love the wheels. Some days I think they're more comfortable than the hand-built Mavic Open Pro wheels I've had on my Litespeed since 2009/2010.
Thank you Robert and PSIMet.com for a set of awesome wheels.
And Robert is a Bike Forums member (@Psimet2001) too.
I've been riding on the wheels for 2+ months and I have to say I love the wheels. Some days I think they're more comfortable than the hand-built Mavic Open Pro wheels I've had on my Litespeed since 2009/2010.
Thank you Robert and PSIMet.com for a set of awesome wheels.
And Robert is a Bike Forums member (@Psimet2001) too.
#225
Senior Member
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I am going to rave about everyone's brand they love to hate - Rivendell.
So I have been to their Book and Hatchet store a few times and it was my first experience with them after hearing about how pretty the bikes were. I was nearby and decided to stop in and see what all the fuss was about.
I was just getting started on a bike build so I wanted to ride a bike and see how they sized. They were out of budget for me and I knew I wanted an igh. But I hadn't ridden many bikes recently so it seemed like a fun idea.
The test ride experience there was just great. I tried out a few bikes. They told me how to get to the MUP. No time limit and they explicitly said hour+ tests are totally fine. No obligation! Everyone was really friendly.
They gave me a good download on their philosophy and it influenced some of the choices for my build.
They next time I came back I had my new bike and wanted a bottle cafe. And a bag. We chatted about my bike. I got my cage and I had no idea how to put it on! The last time I had a bottle cage on a bike was when I was 16 and I didn't put it on. The workers did not look at me like I was a dummy. Gave me some tools and tips. And sure enough I installed it! (Yes it was totally easy but I am not mechanically oriented. Software yes. Hardware no)
I have been in many times, and they aren't joking about free advice. They are perfectly happy to chat with you about Riv and non-Riv items that suit your needs.
Sadly this convenient outpost is closing soon. And in the final weeks they are just a showroom, no cash registers.
I came back and quizzed them on handlebars. As I was leaving another woman came in with a 1940s or 50s city bike that was having some issues. They put her bike on the stand and started to help troubleshoot.
Rivendell is one of the friendliest stores I have ever been in for newbies or experts. If every LBS was like that, bike culture would feel far more welcoming. It is like the Nordstrom of bike shops!
So I have been to their Book and Hatchet store a few times and it was my first experience with them after hearing about how pretty the bikes were. I was nearby and decided to stop in and see what all the fuss was about.
I was just getting started on a bike build so I wanted to ride a bike and see how they sized. They were out of budget for me and I knew I wanted an igh. But I hadn't ridden many bikes recently so it seemed like a fun idea.
The test ride experience there was just great. I tried out a few bikes. They told me how to get to the MUP. No time limit and they explicitly said hour+ tests are totally fine. No obligation! Everyone was really friendly.
They gave me a good download on their philosophy and it influenced some of the choices for my build.
They next time I came back I had my new bike and wanted a bottle cafe. And a bag. We chatted about my bike. I got my cage and I had no idea how to put it on! The last time I had a bottle cage on a bike was when I was 16 and I didn't put it on. The workers did not look at me like I was a dummy. Gave me some tools and tips. And sure enough I installed it! (Yes it was totally easy but I am not mechanically oriented. Software yes. Hardware no)
I have been in many times, and they aren't joking about free advice. They are perfectly happy to chat with you about Riv and non-Riv items that suit your needs.
Sadly this convenient outpost is closing soon. And in the final weeks they are just a showroom, no cash registers.
I came back and quizzed them on handlebars. As I was leaving another woman came in with a 1940s or 50s city bike that was having some issues. They put her bike on the stand and started to help troubleshoot.
Rivendell is one of the friendliest stores I have ever been in for newbies or experts. If every LBS was like that, bike culture would feel far more welcoming. It is like the Nordstrom of bike shops!