Online Cycling Shopping

Cycling Stores Online. Internet shopping has for many people changed the way we shop, and shopping for cycling gear is no exception. If you have yet to embrace this new way or are unsure of how it works, then the following questions may help.  

Why Online Shopping? If you know what product you want, know the size (if applicable), know the brand (or want to compare brands), then you can browse the numerous online cycling stores, compare pricing check all the options all from the comfort of your computer room. Once you know your cycle clothing sizes or your cycle shoe size you can order online with confidence knowing the item will fit. Cycle componentry is standard the world over, so no problem there. Once a decision is made simply fill out the check out page and hit submit, then sit back and wait a few days, usually between 5-7 working days for international, and 2-3 for local delivery. Easy.

Are there downsides? Waiting for items to arrive can be a bit frustrating, especially if you’ve left it until the last minute to order a replacement for a worn out part. So some planning ahead is sensible. Returning goods for whatever reason, can be a bit time consuming. It’s a good idea to check return policies before purchasing. Check the freight costs to your part of the world too. Some stores charge a lot, so with single items this can comprise a fair percentage of the overall cost, why not club together with friends to buy several items and share the freight costs. Other stores offer free freight when you spend over a certain amount.

I suppose there’s a slim chance of credit card fraud, but highly unlikely with reputable and long standing stores. If your worried about that, set up a debit card account and just keep a small amount of money there.  

Will it hurt my local bike shop? In a word, probably. Unfortunately pricing online can be half the cost that bike shops charge on some items. The reality is bike shops need to adjust to this fact, change their business model and add value in other areas to keep customers coming back. We all feel for bike shops, but once you shop online, its hard to then go back and pay double for items when you know the online price.

In Conclusion While I still love browsing through my local bike shop, and still buy many items from it, I’ll always investigate online for larger price cycling items, then I can make an informed decision knowing all the facts.