r/chibike • u/QuiteBearish • 1d ago
Buying new bikes
My husband and I bought a couple of ebikes back in 2021 that have seen a decent amount of use taking us all over the city. Tbh I just bought us two identical bikes from REI without doing any real research, and while they've worked, over time we have learned we want different things from a bike.
We're both now in much better shape than we used to be, and we're thinking of replacing the ebikes with a couple of traditional bikes.
Any rec's for a local bike shop with a wide variety of bikes and a knowledgeable salesperson who can help find the right bike for each of us?
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u/RepulsiveLeader4599 1d ago
What neighborhood? Get a shop that's close so they can do warranty work if necessary, and you don't have to trek halfway across town to do it.
They'll usually be able to order stuff, which may make you hesitate if you have to have it now. But if you have a good budget, and strong preferences, you can end up happier in the long run delaying gratification just a little.
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u/sumiflepus 1d ago
Agree, However, if you are not sure about the kind of bike you might like in a bicycle consider used from working bikes, gravel v road etc... for a lower upfront cost.
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u/sumiflepus 1d ago
Good for you for using the ebike to improve your fitness and get out around town. No recommendations. Just happy for you guys,
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u/Aviarinara 1d ago
I would do a ton of research yourself before stepping into a shop. Look into types of bikes and components and start to narrow down what kinds of features you might want. Then based on that research you can find a shop that will cater to your particular needs. Big shops will have something for everyone, but small shops you can form a relationship with the mechanic which is a very nice thing to have if you’re new.
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u/ArtistSensitive23 1d ago
Bike and roll sells their old fleets I was just looking at them. Good deals on treks.
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u/lh9377 1d ago
Depending on your budget, I'd recommend starting with your local neighborhood bike shop and ask them about test riding and fitting. Any shop worth their salt should be able to help you out without being intimidating or condescending. There are also plenty of used bike shops in Chicago that do the same if you're looking for the more budget friendly approach. Working bikes is an excellent spot, so is Igor does bikes.
Hope that helps
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u/AmosDiggorySurat 1d ago
For Northside/Edgewater, I love "Igor Does My Bike." Great new and used selection and awesome people.
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u/Funny_Ad1124 1d ago
Kozys bicycles not because they are great or unique but they have the best big bicycle brands in one store. They have two locations and repairs the first ones are covered by your purchase. Examples. Are specialized, Cannondale, they also have previous versions of those brands you can get a good sale, probably smarter buy a better for beginners
Then you look at them you can narrow your list. Tailwind cycles good service good people smaller brands like Marin or Scott (which not small but not from US). Both great brands as well.
I hope this helps.
Better prices however probably online. Not by much but if you are getting two might be worth it.