A guide to buying your bicycle

We have put together this brief buyer’s guide to help you through the process of choosing the right bike and to make you aware of the types of service available before you make your purchase. A bicycle comes in many shapes and forms from serious off-road machine to upright city bike. It can be the perfect companion for your leisure pursuits, your children’s playtime as well as a daily work horse for riding to work, running errands and going to the shops.

More and more people are becoming aware of the difference a good quality bike can make to your riding experience. Smoother sealed bearings, efficient braking and slick gear changes are just some of the benefits you’ll find with a good quality bike.

Of course this may cost a little more initially but you’ll be rewarded in the long run by a bike that with the correct servicing will last and gives enormous pleasure.

We recommend that if you’re an adult looking to purchase a bike that you discuss the government’s Green Transport Plan (regularly referred to as the Cycle To Work scheme) with your local bike shop and employer as partaking in this salary sacrifice scheme could save you £££’s and help spread your payments.

Whatever use you have for your bicycle it’s important that you select the correct model and size to ensure you get the best experience possible.

As a vehicle that’s likely to be used amongst other traffic it is important that your bicycle is built correctly. We always recommend purchasing your bike from a store that can offer you personal service. Your local Dawes outlet should be able to offer advice on the correct type of bicycle for your needs as well as sizing you correctly. Remember, everyone is different and sizing yourself from a sizing chart based only on inside leg measurements may not take into account the style of bike, your torso length and your reach; all of which could have an effect on the ideal bike size. Getting the size right is vital if you are to get the best from your purchase.

Your local outlet will also be able to provide you with a full range of cycle accessories as well as being a permanent contact point for any maintenance or warranty issues you may encounter.

Most importantly they will also be able to ensure your bike is built correctly before you ride it away. The nuts and bolts used on your cycle should be tightened to specific recommended torque settings and a trained cycle mechanic will ensure this has been carried out correctly.

For safety, Dawes Cycles insist that all bicycles are 100% built by the retailer before being handed over to the customer. Be aware that failure to do this invalidates the Dawes warranty.

 You may choose to buy your bike from an online retailer. There is no problem with this and it may offer a price advantage. However please note the cost saving is usually made by delivering the bike part built in a box.  This is not always the case as some online retailers will carry out a full build and re-box the assembled bike. Please double check how your bike will arrive before purchase.

If your bike arrives part built you may feel you have the competence and correct tools to complete the build but please note if you need the bike building by your local retailer then this may cost more than the original saving you made.

Once you have your bicycle you should be ready to take on the great outdoors. A bike gives you an increased sense of freedom and allows you to interact and experience your environment at a pace you’ll enjoy, far better than in a car. The health benefits of cycling are well documented with every pedal stroke helping towards your active lifestyle. Like any vehicle, your bike will require maintenance from time to time. With the correct tools and your user manual a lot basic servicing, like cleaning and lubricating can be carried out at home. For the more comprehensive servicing you can always rely on your local Dawes retailer who will be happy to help keep your bicycle in the safest condition.

The purchase of your Dawes bicycle should be a time to treasure as it opens up a whole new world of years of enjoyable cycling.

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