When choosing a bike shop for a new bike, accessories or servicing the options can be overwhelming, especially in cycling friendly Kits.
I had been a used bike purchaser my whole life (well, except for the shiny pink and white ride with streamers that my dad got me when I was 6) until this summer when I decided to upgrade my used basic commuter for a new bike.
I live near 4th so laziness dictated I would first browse the many options on the Burrard to Maple strip. I soon after realized there is a lot of snooty, scenester salespeople who just stare you up and down and don’t offer too much in the way of help unless you are looking for a $3000+ road bike. (Yup – I’m talking to you Dizzy. Come on – you’re not that hard core, you sell cruisers).
I could go on about the MANY of other stores I went to that were less than helpful, but I’d rather share some suggestions about the good guys. My recommendations: 1) Reckless at 1810 Fir Street or 2)West Point Cycles at 3771 West 10th Ave. Both make you feel super welcome less than 30 seconds of stepping in the door and are more knowledgeable about bikes than I thought someone could be. Prices are fair and they offer service for the first year you own the bike.
I ended up going with Reckless for my bike purchase as they carried the Brodie brand and model I decided was right for me. They just so happen to also be celebrating their anniversary and are offering incredible discounts and free accessories when you purchase a new bike. Paul and Larry are the guys to talk to, and both went above and beyond for me! Love Paul’s philosophy of why he chose to work at a bike store – “I just want to get a few more people out of their cars and on bikes.” Perhaps the other bike shops should be reminded of this.
(Note – Just in case you were wondering, no I did not get a bike discount – I just love to share about good deals and great customer service!)
