Ask the Gear Guy
Best place to buy a bike
Q. Where is the best place to get a bike?
– Jack B., Bowling Green, Ky.
A. In my opinion, J.B., the only place to buy a new bicycle is at a local bike shop. These are places that specialize in bikes and have knowledgeable sales people, great quality stuff and generally excellent support. If you go to an LBS — as local bike shops are known in the cycling world — you know you’ll get the best bike for your size, riding style and budget. It might not be the cheapest bike, but in the long run it will be a better value. Sure, you could go to the local superstore and pick up a cheap bike off the rack. But it won’t last nearly as long or be nearly as enjoyable as a custom fit from your LBS.
Apr. 4, 2008 at 3:25 pm
I got my bike at a target, and I still love the brake disk.
Just choose what bike you want AND like, and you’ll love it in no time.
Apr. 7, 2008 at 9:09 pm
local bike shops are the way to go!! athough u may pay extra money but u get a better bike
Apr. 20, 2008 at 9:32 pm
Yeah definately go to an LBS. I am a bike fanatic and the only to pursue this sport is with a real bike. Sure the cheapest bike at the shop is $200, but it is worth it.
Apr. 21, 2008 at 4:09 pm
IRONHORSE IS THE BEST
Apr. 21, 2008 at 7:21 pm
locals rock but more money they usually give a free tuneup
Apr. 30, 2008 at 4:21 pm
I got my ironhorse quantum 2 at sport authority and i’ve had it for almost a year and its totally the best except for price i got and christmas sales event for $330.00 sorry for you guys out there you’ll have to buy it for $600.00
Apr. 30, 2008 at 5:50 pm
The best place to get a bicycle depends on how you ride. Most kids use bikes like skateboards, which are strictly for sidewalk use. If that is you, go ahead and buy a cheap $200 bike at a supermarket. But if you realize that true bicycles are actually vehicles, like cars or ATV’s, then you should not be cheap. A true bicycle is an investment, not a toy. I like to compare road bicycles to cars. A $400 bike is like an inexpensive Honda, while a $2000 bike is a Porche and a $5000 bike is a Ferrari. Most people only need an inexpensive Honda to get around. Therefore, learn the rules of the road and pick up a $350-500 bicycle at a Bike Shop. Don’t need a driver’s license to travel on the road!
May. 11, 2008 at 11:19 pm
Mylocal bicycle dealer , *whos name i cannot express* , sells $700 bikes for twice the price it’s worth, plus the bikes only function like I just bought it at walmart and when he does tune-ups he charges $50 bucks for doing nothing .So i’m saying in some cases that information is misinformation.
May. 28, 2008 at 9:42 pm
If you want a small bmx bike that you’ll use for sidewalks, check out your local walmart or target. If you want a real bike, for transportation, go to a Bike Shop and ask for a “hybrid” style of bicycle. They are made for speed and comfort, but aren’t made to be used on the trail.
Jun. 25, 2008 at 7:34 am
Rhino bikes RULE!!!!!!!
Jul. 3, 2008 at 4:49 pm
I love my dart its fast ive hade it for seven years my brake cords are missing but its good
Jul. 4, 2008 at 9:44 am
if you want a nice bike go with a gt/dyno , eastern or a haro the best haro bmx bike for a beginner is a haro backtrail x1
Jul. 8, 2008 at 12:57 pm
From personal experience, in addition to vouching for the LBS approach, I would highly recommend buying a used model…great values can be found, and so what if it isn’t the shiniest bike on your block? Pocket the difference, insist on a tuneup/cleanup as a condition of sale, and from then on, do your own maintenance.
Aug. 12, 2008 at 3:28 pm
at my local bike store the cheapest bike they have is 300!!!
Aug. 20, 2008 at 10:17 pm
I like lever shift gear systems over twist systems. only place to get them? a LBS.
Aug. 31, 2008 at 8:46 pm
Where can I find a bike that is built for speed, comfort, and rough trails?
Sep. 8, 2008 at 6:54 am
In Sewanee, TN we have Woody’s Bike shop. It is located near the U Of the South. They have been in business for about 10 year I think?!?! They just moved to this old house and have great bikes and service them there too. Plus they rent for day-trippers without bike to enjoy the near by trails. They are honest, have great bikes and can fix them for your on site. Best part is they have the best cafe next door, Mountain Breeze Cafe. Were have really good food and the best home-made ice cream. Hey, if I’m going to ride my bike up a mountain, to get to Woody’s I feel it’s okay to indulge.
Sep. 13, 2008 at 8:18 pm
buy a miraco bike
Sep. 13, 2008 at 8:24 pm
they sell miracos by a bike at just riding along
Oct. 5, 2008 at 6:55 pm
I find it easiest to collect parts of old bikes and build my own. It’s easy and cheap.
Feb. 4, 2009 at 11:14 am
good job
Mar. 2, 2009 at 10:19 am
I buy bikes at pawn shops because my 12 year old son tears them up so fast and they are cheap. Since Hurricane Ike hit our town, he collects bikes from the neighborhood trash piles and tries to put them back together. He calls them “Ike Bikes”.