Where to demo bikes in Scotland?

crashtestmuppet
crashtestmuppet Posts: 16
edited May 2008 in MTB buying advice
Anyone know of some good shops in Scotland which are happy for you to demo bikes, and have a good selection?

Unfortunately I was offshore for the 'demo day series' at Peebles, and live in Aberdeen so the others are a bit of a trek!

Cheers

Comments

  • schmako
    schmako Posts: 1,982
    Edinburgh BIkes will let you have a go out round by the shop if thats any use! There is one in Aberdeen right?
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  • artillerydave
    artillerydave Posts: 715
    the bike shop at glentress has a good posh hire section, but you pay for them they are not a free demo. handy if they have got what you want around £40 for a good full sus model and worth it if you intend to buy one as you get to try it on some of the greatest trails ever.
  • crashtestmuppet
    crashtestmuppet Posts: 16
    Cheers, there is an edin bike shop but was looking for a bit more of a test than around the carpark. Glentress sounds good, but need to get down to one option at £40 a go!

    Maybe if I give them some chat they'd let me change bikes during the day...
  • johnnoneep
    johnnoneep Posts: 25
    A mate of mine is currently replacing a stolen bike and so far EBC in Aberdeen has let him demo a Commencal, a Spesh Enduro and a Stumpjumper. Alpine has given him a Heckler, a Nomad and a Trek Fuel.

    The downside is that EBC took £1800 from his credit card just in case he didn't return with the Stumpy :shock: !

    I reckon having a chat with them to let them know you're serious might work. Just hope your Visa is up to it!

    Cheers,

    John.
  • crashtestmuppet
    crashtestmuppet Posts: 16
    Thanks John.

    I popped into Alpine already but they were very unhelpful to the point of being rude, maybe caught them on an off day. Then tried the foundry, and couldnt get anyone to open the bike shop! Will try EBC this week when I get back onto dry land.
  • johnnoneep
    johnnoneep Posts: 25
    Purely out or curiosity, where are you just now? I enjoying a 3 week leave from my other home, the Brent Alpha.

    I'm quite surprised at the attitude you received from the Alpine guys. I've been buying bits from them for years. I was actually one of Dave McKays (the owners') very first customers before the shop opened when it was in Willowbank Road!
  • crashtestmuppet
    crashtestmuppet Posts: 16
    Im about 200 miles SW of sunny Stavanger, on Valhall. Good times!

    Home for 2 weeks when I get back though so will hopefully be able to ride some bikes and make a decision....and drink some beer of course!

    I was a bit surprised at the reception in alpine too, as my mates had reported good service. Male PMS (hangover) perhaps?!

    Really like the look of the heckler and the orange 5 now you guys have pointed them out. I'll def need to get some demo days in as I doubt theres a 'bad' bike mentioned here, all just down to personal preferences and riding needs.

    Thanks for all the help, much appreciated

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