Many local bike businesses have struggled to survive in the face of competition from internet vendors who can considerably reduce expenses. Because of social alienation and state-at-home dictates, our economy has been forced to take a step back, and your favorite business that has managed to remain open all these years is more than likely suffering terrible circumstances.
Whether you know it or not, your neighborhood bike store offers a lot more than just selling bikes. In many ways, your neighborhood bike store is the beating heart of the town. It acts as an advocate, arranging club rides or local cycling events, fostering friendship, and encouraging people to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Bike shops also provide many crucial services that an internet vendor does not, such as bike fittings, bike maintenance, workshops, maintenance training, and try-before-you-buy programs to ensure you are satisfied with your purchase.
To keep these riding centers operating and serving our communities, riders must do all in their power to guarantee stores can keep their doors open. The good news is that you can assist, even if you’re facing financial difficulties and don’t have additional cash to spend on new bike gear. Here are nine ways you can help support your local bike store right now, from spreading the word on social media to getting a non-cyclist interested in the sport.
Whether you have money to spend right now or not, there are things you can do right now to assist your local bike store to survive our present economic downturn. Here are some ideas to get you started.
1. Check to see which services are still available
Depending on where you reside, certain bike shops may be designated essential services and provide curbside pickups or limited in-store shopping. Others could also let you drop off your bike fortune and maintenance. Instead of thinking your beloved local bike store is closed, enquire about what services it still provides. If you have the funds, now may be the time for a tune-up or that luxury bike rejuvenation package to have your bike looking and performing like new.
2. Buy commuting equipment
Cycling to work may help you avoid crowds on public transit, reduce pollution and traffic on the roads, and boost your immune system. While purchasing additional riding gear for a daily commute may seem to be an extra investment, it really helps you save money by reducing gas expenses, automobile repairs, and medical visits. Make a list of the equipment you may need to begin commuting by bike more often and buy what you can from your local bike store. Here are a few suggestions:
• Bicycle racks for panniers or a riding backpack
• A nice set of lights for morning and evening journeys
• A rain jacket and leggings for winter riding
• If you don’t already have one, a dedicated commuter cycle
3. Get a friend or family member started on cycling
Finding a new client for your local bike store is a terrific way to help them out. If you have a friend or family member who wants to spend more time outside and start exercising to keep healthy while socially isolating themselves, walk them through the essentials of what they’ll need to get started riding. Tell them about your favorite bike store, and if you have a favorite salesman or technician who has served you over the years, send a new client their way.
4. Check out their selection of used bikes
If a friend or family member is searching for a used bike to begin started, or if you need a second bike to travel more, craigslist isn’t the only place to look. Most local bike stores offer a range of secondhand bikes that are just a few years old and still have a lot of miles on them. These motorcycles will be far less expensive than newer ones, and since they are owned by the business, you can be certain that the majority of them will be in excellent functioning shape.
5. Purchase often used products
If your bike often, you probably purchase inner tubes, chain oil, degreaser, and handlebar tape on a regular basis. Instead of waiting until you run out of these items, why not stock up now, when your local bike store may be struggling to remain open? While these purchases may not seem to be significant, if everyone contributes, a little goes a long way.