BIKE SHOPPING TIPS
SOME BIKES ARE STILL IN HIGH DEMAND
During the pandemic many people adopted cycling for exercise and as an alternative to public transportation. We are thrilled that more people are realizing the benefits of going by bike and are embracing a more active and environmentally conscious lifestyle. However, the increase in demand led to delays and shortages in bicycle production worldwide. Thankfully supply levels have begun to catch up and we have healthy stock levels once again. There are still some categories of bikes that are in high demand and may requires special orders with long lead times.
If this is the season for you to upgrade, replace or finially pull the trigger on a new bike, but you don't know where to start - check out the tips below and them come see us in store for a test ride.
1. Think about your Goals
You don't just want a bike, you want the right bike bike for your needs. So it's a good idea to spend some time thinking about your goals for riding. Are you riding for fitness or just for fun? Will you be riding with friends and family or are you looking forward to long solo rides? Are you thinking of open roads and smooth pavement or are you trail bound?
2. Do Some Research
Our website is updated on a nightly basis with what is in stock. Review the different bike categories and price points so you'll be more prepared when you come down to the store. This will help us focus on your needs and make the process efficient and fun. No idea what kind of bike you need? Use this handy dandy tool to help narrow down your options. Otherwise, you can start with the categories below.
City
If see yourself mostly riding around the streets of your neighbourhood or on paved paths, consider a rigid hybrid. For upright casual rides a comfort hybrid is a great option to look around and enjoy the ride.
Road
Drop bars are often associated with racing but really if you imagine yourself going on long rides, stretching out more than an hour or two, a road bike with drop bars gives you options to take on a variety of scenarios.
Gravel
If you envision smooth off pavement rides on dirt and gravel paths, a front suspension hybrid is a good option to consider. Built like a light duty mountain bike these bike are very versatile. Drop bar gravel bikes are great for those looking take these rides to the next level.
Trail
Mountain bikes are best for riders looking to explore trails with rock, roots, jumps and drops. If this is you, know what trails you like to ride will help us find the right wheel size, frame geometry and component set up for your riding needs.
3. Budget for Gear
If you are new to cycling, don't blow your whole budget on the bike. Spend more time riding and less time shopping by adding accessories and investing in the right apparel when you buy the bike. We offer a 15% discount on accessories for your bike (some exceptions apply) on the day you buy the bike.
Helmets
Whether you're hitting the pavement or the trails, a helmet is a great idea and is a requirement for any rider under 18 years of age.
Lights
Daytime running lights help drivers see you on the road no matter what time of day you ride. We recommend your lights are always on.
Storage
Consider all the items you may need for your future adventures and where you'll store them. Pack right for every ride and you'll feel confident and prepared.
Apparel
Clothing designed for riding will make the experience more comfortable with performance fabrics, strategic pockets and category specific features.
4. Connect with other Riders
For some cycling is strictly individual and that's great, but if you are looking to be part of a community of cyclists, there is a wide range of ways to connect with other riders. Check out the Manitoba Cycling Association for local events and club information. There are also ways to connect virtually. Strava is a great way to track your rides, discover new routes and challenge yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size do I ride?
There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to bike sizing but there are sizing charts for different brands and models of bikes. Where ever possible we provide a sizing chart for the bikes that we carry in the item details. These charts provide a good starting point when looking for inventory or planning a test ride.
Can I special order a bike? When will it arrive?
If the supplier has stock, we can special order a bike for you. In some cases lead times may be long. If we order you a bike that isn't part of our core inventory you will have to pay for it upfront it will be a final sale.
Can you tell me when you will be getting more of a certain bike?
In some cases, yes. If we have a model on order a with a supplier we can usually tell you when we expect it will be arriving.
Do you offer financing?
Yes. We offer financing through Finance It. The process takes a few steps. You can learn more about the process here.
Can I buy a bike online?
Yes. However bike returns are subject to a 10% restocking fee. We encourage you to see the bike in person and test ride if possible before pulling the trigger.
Will my new bike need maintenance?
Yes. All bikes require maintenance. We recommend an annual tune up and offer our Lifetime Service Plan with bike purchase, designed to help you keep on top of it. Your bike may require more comprehensive maintenance, depending on how often you ride it and in what conditions you ride. Our Service Techs will make recommendations to keep your bike running right.
Can bikes be returned?
Bikes can be returned but are subject to a 10% restocking fee. The bike must be in like new condition.
Thank you for shopping local.
We appreciate you trusting us with your business. No matter where your riding takes you, we want you to find the right products and information for your needs and have fun doing it. Getting you ready to take on your goals, is why we are here and we're pretty passionate about it.