Buying a Bike, part (b)

Why bother with an advocacy group or riding club?

A local group will be a good resource for all kinds of bike-related stuff near you. It's also likely to be a member-driven organization, and to work with local and regional authorities and communities to create good riding conditions. If this is something you care about, join the group. Membership also usually gets you discounts at area shops; if you're buying a bike, membership will pay for itself pretty quick. The League of American Bicyclists maintains a searchable list of local groups. If there's no local club, or even if there is, you can join The League. They do similar education and advocacy at the national and state levels, and you'll probably get the same discounts. If you're in the DC area, check out the local heroes at Washington Area Bicyclists' Association(WABA).

Why buy from a LOCAL BIKE SHOP (LBS)?

You can get less expensive bikes used, online, or at department stores, but there are good reasons to buy a bike from an LBS: a bike bought at a good LBS will be properly assembled and adjusted on-site by a professional mechanic, will be sized to fit you by a salesperson trained in bike fitting, and will come with a warranty and free maintenance service (usually worth at least $50 - $100). If you find any of these things are not true of a particular LBS, think twice about buying from that shop.

The National Bicycle Dealers' Association (NBDA) has a member directory, a bicycle Dealer Finder, and a nice chart explaining the advantages of buying a bike from an independent bike dealer rather than over the internet or from a department store. Remember however, it is an industry organization, so it's not an impartial advocate. That said, I agree with most of what they have to say, and I'm not in the bike business. The League's search tool can also locate bike shops, and its good to shop at stores that support the League, and other bicycle advocacy groups.

Don't buy stuff from people you don't like or don't trust.

It's helpful to have a good relationship with a shop. This is especially true if you're buying a complete bike, because you'll want to go back to the store for the free service that typically comes with a new bike.

Also, a good salesperson will help you understand your needs. Your circumstances, goals, and needs are unique, and much depends on them. There are lots bike shop people out there who love bikes and want to help you learn to use and enjoy them. There is a lot to know about bikes, and learning a bit will help you figure out what you want. You should never be made to feel stupid, uncool, or like you're being taken for a ride.

Weekends?

Bike shops are CRAZY on weekends, especially in spring and summer. Staff-people are often tired, stressed out, and overwhelmed. Sometimes they can't give customers the attention they deserve. From a purely pragmatic point of view, it's not the best time to shop. If you do go on the weekend, go as early as possible--shops often get progressively busier towards the end of the day. On the flip side, a rainy weekend can provide a great shopping experience--as long as you don't mind getting a little wet--because shops are often empty on rainy days.

Also, if you wait until May 1 to bring your bike to the shop for a tune-up, expect a line. I'm not justifyin', I'm just sayin'.

Overpriced? In general, no.

Very few people in the bike industry get rich from retail sales, and there is some truth in the saying, "You get what you pay for." In this case, the truth is that a $400 bike from a local bike shop is worth at least twice as much as a $200 bike from a department store. The former is likely to last more than twice as long, work significantly better, and save you money and headaches, than the later. I can't guarantee it, but it is my experience. I think $300.00 is about the lowest price you'll typically see on a bike at a LBS. With the lock, helmet, and sales tax, expect to spend maybe at least $450.

You can save money purchasing mail-order or online. Beware, however, that if something isn't right, it's much easier to deal with the local retailer for returns, warranties, etc. Plus, once you find salespeople you trust, they'll be great sources for tips and information, and you'll be supporting your local economy.

About accessories:

First: the big fat lock. If buying a $100 lock seems silly to you, think about how pissed off you'll be if your bike is stolen and your insurance deductible is $500.

If you don't get a basket, you won't be inclined to use your bike to run errands.

If you don't have lights on your bike, you won't be able to ride safely at night.

Think ahead! Think about your goals.

In general, you don't need special cycling clothing, pedals, or shoes to ride a bike. Don't let anyone tell you different. If you want these things, get them.

PART (C): Bike Shops in DC that I personally recommend.