Big Box-Store vs. Specialized Store for Bikes?

Question

I'm looking to get a hybrid (not cruiser or comfort) bike on a budget, but I don't know where from. On one hand, Canadian Tire's bikes are cheaper and their staff are alright. On the other hand, the independent bike-only store near my place has knowledgable staff, service and everything I need.

For those who don't know, Canadian Tire stocks three brands: Schwinn, Supercycle and Raleigh. Most of the bikes they sell are mountain bikes, but they've got a few road bikes and hybrids too (like the Supercyle Solaris and the Schwinn Kicker). Prices range from $100 to $400. I don't think any of these brands are available at the the smaller store, whose prices are in the higher range ($200 - $1000+).

Any thoughts?

Answer 1

I would definitely start at the smaller store. Unless we want nothing but "big box" stores in ten years, we have to support our local businesses! My experience with my local independent bike store is that if they don't have something they will call around to other local stores, suggest alternatives, and generally be very helpful, because they are much more personally invested in the store than your minimum wage employees at the big box store. Plus, you said you THINK the brands you want are not available at the small store... you should go there and find out for sure.

Good luck!

Answer 2

Remember when you buy a bike you are forging a relationship. You're going to need service and advice. Go where you feel more comfortable. It is worth the $$ to go to a real shop. They may offer free tune-ups with your new bike. In my experience box-store bikes usually need service from the store (they are almost never set up correctly and sometimes dangerously so). The extra money you spend at the shop, you will save in service on your bike. Hope this helps.

Answer 3

I have a Trek 21 speed Mountain Bicycle, that I bought in 1999. Bought this bicycle from a Al's Bicycle store in Edmond, Oklahoma. I would never buy a bicycle from wal-mart.

Answer 4

I would recommend the smaller store, get them to fit you for the bike.  No matter what kind of bike it is, or how expensive, if it doesn't fit correctly it will be less fun to ride.

Answer 5

Specialized store- they will build the bike correctly for starters.  They will stand behind the bike, also, the bikes sold at the specialty are higher end models- designed for the specialty store.  Also, the specialty store will fit you properly.  Finally, do you want to support a corporation, i.e. Canadian Tire?   Or, do you want to help out the sole proprietor, i.e. Specialized store?