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The new issue of Bicycle Retailer & Industry News features a cover story examining why first-time bike buyers aren’t spending their money at traditional mainstream bike shops. Instead, they’re attracted to niche bike shops and other specialty retailers (like surf and skate shops who now carry bikes).
One of the main reasons large shops aren’t making the most of the cycling boom is that they’re geared up for an enthusiast market. One that buys expensive, performance-oriented bikes as opposed to the bikes favored by commuters and first time buyers. They want an affordable bike that’s dependable and “cool”.
Urban Velo’s very own publisher was reached for comment:
Urban Velo publisher Jeff Guerrero has noticed more of his co-workers becoming interested in bikes at the non-profit he works for, and a few have begun commuting to work. But he needs to help them find a shop.
“Given $500 is the upper limit of what they want to spend, I find I have to help steer them to shops that can help them get the bike they need. A customer for a $300 to $500 bike doesn’t get a lot of help.”
Click here to read the whole article.
Yeah, I actually get a little intimidated at the local bike shop because they really only cater to the high-end performance cyclist. They tend to only carry one or two bikes that people like me can afford (around $500) and they seem to scoff at fixed gear riders. I’ve needed to take my bike in to the wheels trued for a while now, but keep putting if off simply because I don’t like dealing with the guys that work there.
coasting isn’t that hot of a seller though. the non-endemic shops are cool, in my eyes and I think many prospective buyers aren’t nearly as intimidated by them.
At least they’re not buying them at Costco!