Have you been shopping for a bicycle?  Have you ever wondered why bikes at department stores are WAAAAY cheaper than the ones you see at a specialty bicycle retailer like Out Spokin' Bicycles?  Below is a list of differences between the two types of stores and their products.  Read carefully and see for yourself why buying from a bike shop is definitely the way to go.

Advantages	Specialty Bicyle Retailer	Mass Merchant / Department Store
Comfort + Bike Fit	People come in all sizes and need the expert fit a bike shop can provide. The result : a  safe, comfortable ride on the right-sized bike, properly adjusted. Test rides and follow-up fittings available.	Mass Merchants have few frame sizes and no experienced staff to make adjustments. They usually don’t offer test rides and don’t do follow-up adjustments. The result: an uncomfortable ride.
Selection	We have a wide selection of models, sizes, styles and colors. Our expert staff coaches you through  the process of finding the right bike for you.	Selection is usually limited and staff expertise is usually limited or non-existent.
Safety	A bike is a vehicle. Ours are assembled in-store by experienced mechanics, then fit to the customer. Test rides, tune-ups and instructions assure a safe ride.	Some sell unassembled bikes; few customers are experienced at this. No test rides, tune-ups or safety tests are available. Many buyers eventually bring these bikes to bike shops to be properly assembled or adjusted.
Value After The Sale	Our experienced staff welcome post-sale service and adjustments, usually for free or at low-cost.  Our job is to satisfy your needs and help you fully enjoy the ride.	After a bike is bought from a mass merchant, you have little or no help after the sale, either if problems occur or if you just want help to enjoy your bicycle more.
Accessories	Bike shops offer a wide selection of quality accessories in many colors, sizes, models. Our staff consults you to find the right accessory and helmet.	Usually a limited or poor selection of accessories is available, with little or no help to choose the right one. Cheap, knockoff products can create safety issues.
Warranty	All bikes have full warranties. Most problems are resolved in-house. We stand behind our bikes with experienced mechanics and riding experts.	Usually have manufacturer warranties only, making it impossible or cumbersome to get a bike fixed or adjusted. They may let  you return the bike for a refund.
Community	We are the central source for more than just great bicycles accessories and apparel. We help you find the great rides, latest cycling info, and often serve as advocates for better bike paths and facilities.	They mainly just sell stuff.
Expertise	We employ knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff, many who are cyclists with detailed knowledge in the field. Their only job is satisfying your cycling needs.	They mainly just sell stuff.