Am I being too picky?

MAMB

Went into a bike shop a couple of weeks ago and tried out a couple of bikes, one of which was on display and one which had to be built up (same model, different sizes). I concluded that, although there wasn't much in it, I preferred the size of the one on display. Only problem was that the saddle was slightly damaged (which they offered to replace) and the light-coloured bar tape was very grubby. The rest of the bike itself was also fairly grubby, as though it had been handled or test ridden quite a bit. I asked if they'd got another and they seemed surprised by the question (the answer was no). Although they pushed me to buy the bike, I was disinclined to do so as I felt that a new bike should be, well, new. In the end I didn't go for it, but I left the shop wondering whether I was being unreasonable. I obviously benefitted from being able to test the bike to confirm the size but was not happy with the idea of a bike that wasn't 'box fresh' What would you have done ?

Barrie_G

I'd have pushed for a reasonable discount, after having first politely informed them of my opinion about the poor state of the bike.

markos1963

I can understand you point but you have to think of the shop as well. Even the best shop can't afford to keep every size/colour combination and a fleet of test bikes so a compromise has to be made.

If you like the bike but feel its a little "shop soiled" then tell them and see what can be done. Far better to get the tape changed,new saddle and a good clean up as well as a cast iron guarrantee than to get an ill fitting bike shiny and new out of a box.

I bought an ex demo bike(Orbea Onix) that was cheaper than many new beginners bikes. The quality of its prep was second to none, came with a years warranty and a free first service. There was no way that I could have afforded it new but as I was prepared to be flexible in my choice I got something worthwhile.

synchronicity

I would give them a second chance... tell them you're interested but say what you think... tell them that if they can bother to clean the bike (even just the frame), swap the saddle & put on some fresh bar tape, that you'll reconsider.

Generally when you do the "swappies", you don't get discounts on top of that (unless you can spot some physical damage like scratches)

alfablue

When in the LBS with my girlfriend recently, buying her new Trek 1.2, the manager said she could bring it back for an exchange or refund after a few days or a week if it didn't suit her, as long as it was undamaged. He said "most of our bikes are a bit dusty, anyway". They let you have a thorough test ride before you buy, and this returns policy is great, they seem genuinely concerned to sell you a bike that fits your size and your needs - the only downside is the bike you buy is unlikely to be pristine. Personally I think they have got it just right, and it is a fantastic LBS (John's Bikes, Bath). At the other end of the scale is somewhere like Halfords that generally won't even fully build the bike till you buy, and will only allow you to try it in the shop, and won't be at all receptive to you if you bring it back if you don't like it or it doesn't fit! Okay, you get a sparkling new bike, but with a dubious build quaity and fit.

I think I would want grubby bar tape changed, but a bit of surface dirt or dust wouldn't worry me. John's Bikes gave about £50 discount on the accessories we bought with the bike (equivalent to 10% of the purchase price) and they did a free swap to some better pedals, and changed the saddle to a comfier one. Very satisfied customers!