This is a very common situation: your bike has a problem. It could be that it has worn down after being used for so many years. Maybe you overcooked it and let it fall, sending the bike through the woods and causing irreparable damage. Perhaps it is time to get rid of your old bike and buy a new one.
No matter what reason, it is important to purchase new mountain bikes. There are a few options. You could purchase used bikes from Craigslist, a forum, or an online shop. Or you could go to your local bike shop Edinburgh (LBS). These are five reasons why you should spend your hard-earned money at the LBS when making your next purchase.
Support the local economy
Let’s face facts, money is tight right now for most people. The economy is in decline and has been for some time. Spend your money in a local bike shop and not online to help your local economy. You should think about this: If you purchase a part online, the entire cost goes to your local economy. Some of the item stays if it is purchased in a local store. Some of it may not stay, but others. The money that does not stay can be used to move around in the local area. Some go to local taxes, which are then re-spent within your community. Some go to bike shop workers, who can spend it locally. You can spend your money in your locality, not hundreds of miles away.
Do a trial before you buy
It is not always a good idea to purchase items online. You’ll want to test out clothing, helmets and gloves, as well as shoes and gloves. There are many accessories you can try before you buy. There are many accessories available for your bike, including saddles, seatbags, hydration packs and tools. It’s difficult to know what you’re getting by just looking at an online photo. It’s hard to beat holding a product in your hands to feel how it feels and works. You can also test-ride a bike at the LBS if you are buying it. You can’t do that online.
Support and Service
Some people don’t have the time or ability to fix their bikes. A local shop can offer many benefits for those who are mechanically challenged by purchasing a bike or a part of a bike. Many shops offer at-home tune-ups and adjustments for a minimum of one year. Some even offer lifetime tune ups for bikes purchased there. The shop will install parts for less than those purchased elsewhere. If something doesn’t work as it should, the LBS can help you with any warranty issues. Online purchases are your responsibility.
Ask about the availability of the part you require if the shop does not have it in stock. They can usually get it in a matter of days and you won’t need to pay shipping. LBS can also ensure that you buy the correct part. There are many options for component combinations and standards, so it is easy to order the wrong part. SRAM’s XX crankset comes with four different bottom brackets and three different chainring combinations. It also has two different length crank arms. There are 28 possible configurations. And don’t even get me started on headsets!
The Human Connection
Local buying (bikes and other) builds relationships. LBS employees get to know you and vice versa. You will consider each other friends. That has many benefits. They can help you find the right gear for you, as they are familiar with your riding style and preferences. You can only get a list of the most popular items from their online store. If you’re a regular customer, the LBS will also be able to help you in an emergency. The LBS will help you get back on track if you have a Saturday race or ride. If they are unable to get the part that a customer requires in a timely manner, it is not unusual for shops to take parts from brand-new bikes. While the customer’s frame was being repaired under warranty, one of our LBS owners let the customer borrow his bike! Online shops will never offer this level of service.
They support your riding scene!
The LBS is without a doubt the best reason you should spend money locally. It gives back to your riding community. What is the last time you saw an online shop host a charity race or ride in your area? Are they putting on regular rides throughout the week? Is there a local advocacy group? Has an online store donated money? Did you ever do trail work with an employee of an online store?
LBS employees and owners are part of your riding community, just like you. They are riders just like you. Spend your money at the LBS and not online to support your riding community. Online stores may want your money but they won’t be able to help you and your trails as much as your LBS. Spend according to your needs.