Buy a Bike Online

Buying a bike online / on the internet

Often buying a bike online / across the internet can save hundreds of pounds, as online shops are able to pass on their lower costs. Online bike shops will also often have last years models available (or even earlier) at great discounts, as cyclists rush to get the latest version.

Shops will also sometimes have surplus stock to reduce, and be able to offer some great bargains.

But of course you still need to be sure that the bike you buy is in good condition, and is the right size for you.

It would be possible to go to your local bike shop, find the perfect bike for you, get measured for the best size and so on, perhaps even to try a couple of bikes...and then to go and order the same bike online. I let you make the judgement about the ethics of doing this! See our related articles choose a bike and bike size and setup for more information about making sure your bike is the right one for you.

The reason bike shops often charge more than online stores is precisely because they do offer these additional 'value added' services. But there are also plenty of 'real' shops that will push you into buying what they happen to have in stock, or the bike that they know will be superceded soon. If you're lucky, there are great benefits in buying from a shop, otherwise there can be great disadvantages.

Of course, you may get short shrift (or a big bill) if you ask for free advice about buying a bike, then take your new bike in to the same bike shop a week later and ask them to adjust the gears for you if you have used their advice but bought the bike online.

Generally though, bike shops will be happy to adjust your bike for you (for a reasonable charge) if you buy it online and just can't get something right.

So how do you find a bargain bike online? The two main ways are:

1) find a good online bike supplier, who offers a wide range of bikes, will be reliable and efficient and helpful with after sales service. And above all good prices!

I recommend you try Evans Cycles (click here) - they have a great range of bikes available and an online 'Interactive shop Assistant' to help with sizing and so on.

2) deal through a site like ebay (or local classified ads) where many second hand bikes are available. Many enthusiasts replace their bikes quite frequently, so keep looking and you might find a great bargain. Be a little cautious though - test ride the bike first, and check it over carefully. Some second hand bikes may have been in an accident and have hidden damage, or they might require several parts replacing from usual wear and tear (tyres, chain, gears, brakes, cables...) - which can quickly offset the price advantages of buying a second hand bike. And you won't have the guarantee that you will get with a new bike.