Where to Buy Bikes Online
Looking for the right bike but want to avoid the hassle of going from store to store? Buying online is the way to go! Whether you’re new to cycling, upgrading to something fancier, or shopping for the kiddos, figuring out where to buy bikes online can save you a lot of time and energy. Here, you’ll find the top online spots to snag a bike and what each has for you.
Top Online Bike Retailers
When it comes to bikes, several heavyweight online retailers offer options to suit different needs and budgets. Check out these leading online bike retailers:
Dick’s Sporting Goods
Dick’s Sporting Goods has a website that’s as easy as pie to navigate, with perks like free shipping and assembly, turning your bike purchase into an effortless experience. Plus, their price-matching policy ensures you’re getting the best bang for your buck (USA Today).
| Retailer | Perks | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Dick’s Sporting Goods | Free Shipping, Free Assembly, Price Match Guarantee | Various |
REI
For nature lovers, REI’s got your cycling needs covered with a lifetime membership deal that scores you savings, top-notch fitting services, and a selection that fits within the $300 to $500 range. They’re like your personal bike concierge service.
| Retailer | Perks | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| REI | Lifetime Membership, Superior Fitting Services | $300 to $500 |
BikeExchange
Boasting over 1,500 brands and 6,000 products, BikeExchange is a treasure trove for cyclists. They offer a nifty Bike Fit Calculator and deliver bikes partly pre-assembled, making it super simple to get rolling.
| Retailer | Perks | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| BikeExchange | 1,500 Brands, Bike Fit Calculator, Pre-Assembled Shipping | Various |
Diverse Store Offerings
Online shops have something for everyone, ranging from budget options to specialty markets.
Bikes Online
Bikes Online skips the middleman to give you warehouse prices, making it a wallet-friendly option. Their Bike Fit Calculator and model comparison chart help keep your choices clear and easy.
| Store | Perks | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Bikes Online | Warehouse Prices, Fit Calculator, Model Comparison Chart | Various |
Merlin Cycles
For those who live for the road and gravel rides, Merlin Cycles is a go-to. Known for their killer prices and wide selection, they are beloved by cycling die-hards.
| Store | Focused Market | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Merlin Cycles | Road and Gravel Cycling Enthusiasts | Various |
For even more top picks and bike knowledge, check out our articles on the best bikes by price and bike reviews. And if you’re torn between brands, our bike brands comparison can help clear things up.
Shopping for a bike online is as breezy as a summer ride with these trusted stores. Whether you’re hunting for your very first bike, a slick upgrade, or a family-friendly model, these retailers offer something for everyone. Make sure to dive into the unique perks, prices, and features each store offers to score the sweet deal.
Major Online Bike Retailers
Looking to score your next ride without leaving the couch? Plenty of top-notch spots online have a smorgasbord of bikes to choose from. We’ve got the lowdown on the best places like Dick’s Sporting Goods, REI, BikeExchange, and good ol’ Walmart to park your bucks smartly.
Dick’s Sporting Goods
Dick’s Sporting Goods is a favorite hangout for bike shoppers. Their deal of free shipping and assembly makes the whole process a breeze. With a slick website that’s a cinch to maneuver, finding your dream bike is a cakewalk. Plus, they promise to match prices, so you’re sure to snag the best deal.
Advantages:
- Free delivery and assembly
- Price match offers
| Retailer | Services | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Dick’s Sporting Goods | Free Delivery, Free Assembly | $ – $$ |
REI
REI’s the go-to for the outdoorsy types. They cater to bike lovers with options galore. Their lifetime $30 membership is a sweet deal, offering savings on rides and expert fitting services. With online fitting guides and virtual help, newbies can find their two-wheeled soulmate. Their lineup usually fits within a comfy $300 to $500 budget.
Advantages:
- $30 membership for discounts
- Top-notch fitting and virtual advice
| Retailer | Services | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| REI | Online Fit Guides, Virtual Assistance | $ – $$ |
BikeExchange
With more brands than you can shake a stick at, BikeExchange is the Walmart of the bike world. They’ve got 1,500 brands and 6,000 bike choices. Plus, their Bike Fit Calculator helps you get cozy with your bike before you even unbox it. Shipping comes mostly set up, making life a lot easier (USA Today). For a chat, hit them up via email at info@bikeexchange.com or ring them at 1-949-344-2444, Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm EST (BikeExchange).
Advantages:
- Huge variety of brands
- Fit Calculator
- Bikes come mostly ready-to-roll
| Retailer | Services | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| BikeExchange | Fit Calculator, Ready-to-ride | $ – $$ |
Walmart
Walmart’s doing what Walmart does best: serving up budget-friendly options for everyone. With prices that go easy on the wallet, they offer both store pickup and home delivery. Their collection covers all ages and bike levels, so no one’s left out.
Advantages:
- Wallet-friendly costs
- Store pickup or home delivery
| Retailer | Services | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Walmart | Store Pickup, Home Delivery Options | $ – $$ |
If you’re after something more deluxe, check out our insights on Specialized Online Bike Stores. Also, peep into our bike frame sizing guide to get the right fit.
When scoping out where to snag a bike online, think about what matters to you: pricing, service, and extras these shops provide. More tips on haggling bike prices, bike financing, and warranty advice? We cover those too in our other handy guides.
Specialized Online Bike Stores
Finding the perfect bike shouldn’t feel like solving a jigsaw puzzle. Various online stores are here to help, each catering to different biking needs. Let’s have a look at four popular spots: Bikes Online, Competitive Cyclist, Jenson, and Huffy.
Bikes Online
Bikes Online makes your wallet smile by skipping the middleman and offering direct-from-warehouse prices. They come with handy tools like a Bike Fit Calculator and model comparison charts, making it a breeze to pinpoint your ideal ride.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Direct warehouse prices, no middleman jacking up costs |
| Tools Available | Bike Fit Calculator, Model Comparison Chart |
| Types of Bikes | Mountain, Road, Gravel, Hybrid |
For more on figuring out the right bike size, check out our bike size calculator and bike frame sizing write-ups.
Competitive Cyclist
Competitive Cyclist is the go-to for high-end road, mountain, and gravel bikes. Their site is packed with reviews, guides, and customization choices, a treasure chest for serious cyclists looking to step up their game.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Bike Types | Road, Mountain, Gravel |
| Customization | Endless options to trick out your ride |
| Additional Tools | Reviews, Buying Guides |
Looking to compare bike specs? Dive into compare bike specs and bike brands comparison.
Jenson
Jenson stands out with a wide selection of bikes and accessories. They’ve got expert advice and detailed product descriptions, helping buyers make smart choices without sweating it.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Product Range | Bikes, Accessories, Gear |
| Expert Advice | On hand, ready to guide you |
| Product Descriptions | Thorough and informative |
Wrestling with the choice between new and used bikes? Check out new vs used bike and get the lowdown on used bike inspection.
Huffy
Huffy is the hero for budget-conscious families, rolling out affordable bikes in a variety of styles. Whether you need a kid’s bike or a cruiser, they’ve got you covered for that casual weekend ride.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Price Range | Wallet-friendly, won’t break the bank |
| Types of Bikes | Kids’, Mountain, Cruiser |
| Target Audience | Families, Fun-loving Riders |
Want to dig into bike pricing? Visit our bike price guide and check out the best cheap bikes. Also, don’t miss bike buying mistakes to steer clear of common goofs.
These stores offer neat tools and features to make online bike shopping a snap. For more tips and pointers, check out our other articles and guides.
Buying Considerations
Snagging a bike online can save you a ton of time and bucks, but don’t just click ‘buy’ without checking some crucial stuff first. In this part, we’ll talk about things like return policies, warranties, and where to get your bike fixed if you need to.
Return Policies
Return rules are all over the place with online bike stores. It’s a good idea to read the fine print on returns so you don’t end up chewing your nails off in stress later. Some stores are pretty chill about returns, even picking up the shipping tab, while others can be kinda sticklers.
Things to think about when you’re eyeing those return policies:
| Retailer | Return Window | Return Shipping Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Dick’s Sporting Goods | 60 days | Free |
| REI | 1 year | Free for members |
| Walmart | 90 days | You pay |
| BikeExchange | Changes by seller | Varies |
For the nitty-gritty on each, check out our article on bike return policy.
Warranty Procedures
Having a warranty is like having peace of mind every time you zip down a hill. They vary, so pay attention to how long the warranty lasts, what’s covered, and how you actually claim it.
Things you wanna watch out for:
- Warranty Length: The longer, the better—think several years.
- Coverage Scope: Make sure the big parts like the frame, fork, and drivetrain are covered.
- Claim Process: Know how to file a claim, what paperwork to gather, and where to go for help.
For the big picture on warranties, check our bike warranty guide.
| Brand | Frame Warranty | Component Warranty | Labor Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Specialized | Lifetime | 1–2 years | Nope |
| Trek | Lifetime | 2 years | Nope |
| Giant | Lifetime | 2 years | Nope |
| Cannondale | Lifetime | 1 year | Nope |
Service Locations
You don’t wanna be caught without a plan when your bike needs a bit of TLC. Knowing where to get it serviced is huge, especially if you’ve bought it directly from the brand.
Consider this stuff:
- Authorized Service Centers: Some brands team up with local shops for authorized fixes.
- Extended Networks: See if they have a list of go-to spots for warranty and upkeep.
- Mobile Services: Some online places offer techs that’ll come to your door.
For a larger look at service spots, peep our guide on bike maintenance plans.
| Brand | Service Options | Extra Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Bikes Online | Partner shops | Varies |
| Competitive Cyclist | Authorized LBS partners | Based on location |
| Jenson | Authorized LBS partners | Based on location |
| Huffy | Mobile services | Varies |
By knowing these tips, whether it’s your first time buying a bike or you’re just trying to snazz up your ride, you’ll have the info you need to make a smart choice on the web. For more helpful tidbits, check out our articles on where to buy bikes, bike price guide, and new vs used bikes.
Best Online Bike Stores
Looking to score some wheels without stepping foot out your door? Shopping online for bikes has its perks but picking the right spot is crucial to avoid post-purchase blues. Good news, we’ve done the legwork for you. According to aficionados at In The Know Cycling, the big kahunas in online bike shopping include Merlin Cycles, BikeTiresDirect (BTD), and Performance Bike.
Merlin Cycles
If you’re all about road and gravel adventures, Merlin Cycles might just steal your heart. Their lineup boasts shiny rides and accessories that won’t break the bank, a goldmine for those pinching pennies.
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Price | ★★★★☆ |
| Selection | ★★★★☆ |
| Customer Satisfaction | ★★★★☆ |
| Support | ★★★★☆ |
Merlin Cycles flexes its muscles with a grand array of bikes and gear from the best brands around. Keep your eyes peeled for their frequent sales and discounts. Want a sneak peek at prices? Check out our bike price guide.
BikeTiresDirect (BTD)
Need tires or some new wheels for your trusty steed? BikeTiresDirect (BTD) is your go-to hub. Cyclists rave about their vast selection and high-speed customer service, essential for newbies and seasoned pros alike.
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Price | ★★★★☆ |
| Selection | ★★★★☆ |
| Customer Satisfaction | ★★★★☆ |
| Support | ★★★★☆ |
BTD nails it with a wide range of specialized products and quick support, making your shopping breezy. Need help sorting components? Swing by our bike component comparison.
Performance Bike
From rookies to experts, Performance Bike caters to every cyclist out there. The store offers a broad spectrum of rides, packed with pocket-friendly prices and attentive customer chit-chat.
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Price | ★★★★☆ |
| Selection | ★★★★☆ |
| Customer Satisfaction | ★★★★☆ |
| Support | ★★★★☆ |
Their site makes navigation a piece of cake, loaded with clear product descriptions and specs. Before choosing your next road companion, get the lowdown with our compare bike specs.
When you’re hunting for the perfect online bike store, don’t skip the fine print on returns, warranties, and service centers. Dig deeper with our guides on bike return policy and bike warranty guide. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to cruising through your purchase with confidence.
How to Sell Bikes Online
Selling your bike online might feel like you’re about to cram for a calculus exam without any notes. But, don’t fret! Just hop on the right platform, sprinkle in some savvy tips, and watch the process transform into something as casual as a Sunday morning ride.
Buycycle Platform
Buycycle is like LinkedIn for bicycles—minus the annoying notifications. This is your go-to spot for reaching a huge crowd of bike enthusiasts, all eager to find their next set of wheels. Created by folks who live and breathe cycling, Buycycle makes putting your bike on the market as easy as pie.
Key Features
- Easy Peasy Listings: Snap some pics, drop in your asking price, and voilà—your ad’s live and kicking.
- No Stress Payments: Once your bike hits the road with its new owner, your cash is queued up, safe and sound, until delivery’s all settled.
- All-In-One Service: They’re the whole package—think packing, shipping, and insurance sorted across both Europe and the US.
- Fraud-Busting Tools: They’ve got your back against scams and those pesky lowballers.
| What You’ll Find | What’s Included |
|---|---|
| Listing Fee | Zilch |
| Transaction Fee | Funds hit your account once delivery is verified |
| Service Zone | Hangouts across Europe and the US |
| Payment Timing | Funds hit your account once delivery’s verified |
Curious to know more? Visit Buycycle’s official site and get the full scoop.
Selling Tips
Unloading a bike online isn’t rocket science, but there’s still an art to fetching a good price and ensuring it’s smooth sailing all the way. Here’s how you can nail your pedal-powered sale.
Snap Happy Photos and Spot-On Descriptions
- Picture Perfect: Show off your bike with crisp, high-res photos from various angles – it’s your bike’s time to shine.
- Details Matter: Break it down—make, model, size, condition, and any cool extras.
Finding the Sweet Price Spot
- Do Your Homework: Scout out what similar bikes are going for so you can set a solid price.
- Flexible Pricing: Stay open-minded about tweaking your price based on the interest and offers you get.
Stay Safe and Scam-Free
- Scam Armor: Use trustworthy platforms like Buycycle that have got your back with scam protection.
- Safe Transactions: Lock in that payment security before waving your bike goodbye.
Keep It Real with Communication
- Fast Responses: Answer queries with the agility of a mountain goat jumping rocks.
- Honesty’s the Best Policy: If your bike’s got a few scratches, let ’em know upfront.
Need a hand on sprucing up your bike’s condition? Check out our guide to detailing your ride.
By rolling with these pointers and leaning on handy tools like Buycycle, you’ll be on your way to a painless and lucrative bike sale. For even more wisdom on buying or selling rides, wander through our other reads like the bike price guide and where to score your next two-wheeled beauty.
Optimal Selling Seasons
Making a bank from selling your bike means timing is everything. Catching the right season can make the difference between a speedy sale and a bike gathering dust in the garage. It all depends on the bike and who you’re aiming to sell it to.
Seasonal Bike Sales
Bike sales in the U.S. can swing with the seasons, impacting both those fancy-pants models and your everyday rides.
High-End Bikes
The posh bikes—think road racers, mountain beasts, and speedy triathlons—usually fly off the shelves in autumn and winter. That’s when all the super-serious cyclists are gearing up for off-season training.
| Season | Best-Selling Bike Types |
|---|---|
| Autumn | Road, Mountain, Triathlon |
| Winter | Road, Mountain, Triathlon |
| Spring | Kids’, Basic Sport, Commuter |
| Summer | Kids’, Basic Sport, Commuter |
Kids’ and Basic Bikes
For the kiddos’ wheels and those basic sporty bikes, spring and summer are prime time. Warm weather hits, bikes break, and suddenly there’s a rush for replacements.
Target Audience
Knowing your crowd is the secret sauce for a successful bike sale. Folks are on the hunt for bikes at different times for all sorts of reasons.
Serious Cyclists
- Target Audience: Hardcore cyclists ready for the upgrade game or off-season training.
- Best Selling Seasons: Autumn and Winter.
- Preferred Bikes: Snazzy road, mountain, and triathlon types.
- Buying Guides: Best bikes by price, compare bike specs.
Parents and Families
- Target Audience: Moms and dads buying bikes for their wild bunch or family outings.
- Best Selling Seasons: Spring and Summer.
- Preferred Bikes: Little tykes’ bikes, basic sport rides.
- Buying Guides: Best cheap bikes, where to buy bikes.
Commuters
- Target Audience: Folks switching gears to commute on two wheels.
- Best Selling Seasons: Mainly spring and summer.
- Preferred Bikes: Commuter heroes, basic sports warriors.
- Buying Guides: direct to consumer bikes, new vs used bikes.
Plan your sale around these peak seasons to connect with the right buyers and make that online sale a breeze. Get the lowdown on selling—with a step-by-step from listing to cashing in at our how to sell bikes online guide. Don’t miss out on checking bike price tracking to keep your pricing sharp.
Buycycle Selling Process
Putting your bike on the market? With Buycycle, it’s as easy as pie. Here’s how to get your pedal-powered masterpiece listed and learn about the money stuff.
Listing Your Bike
Want to catch a buyer’s eye? Listing on Buycycle couldn’t be more straightforward. Follow these steps and you’re good to go:
- Create an Account: Sign up on the Buycycle site to get started.
- Add Photos: Snap some good, clear images from all angles. Potential buyers love a visual tour.
- Set Price: Choose a price that makes sense. Our bike price guide can help you figure out what’s fair.
- Write Description: Tell folks about your bike—make, model, size, and any quirks or neat features.
- Publish Listing: A quick click lists it for all to see on Buycycle.
Curious how to make your bike ready to sell? Check our document bike condition guide for more tips.
Payment and Fees
Bagged a sale? Buycycle’s got your back. Here’s the lowdown on how cash and costs work out:
- Payment Process: Once the buyer shells out, Buycycle holds onto the cash. It’s kept safe until your bike rolls in and the buyer’s happy.
- Fee Structure: Listing is free! When your bike sells, Buycycle takes a small cut of 3.5% from the selling price.
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Listing Fee | Free |
| Transaction Fee | 3.5% of sale proceeds |
Nailing the market price is key. Peek at our bike price tracking tool for current prices in the bike world.
Buycycle’s easy setup and fair cost structure make it a top pick for selling your wheels. Learn all you need, like a bike warranty guide and bike ownership transfer, to keep your selling ride smooth. Want to know when people are on the hunt for bikes or who they are? Pop over to our seasonal bike sales section.
