Buying bike from Performance online?

[emily_in_nc]

I'm probably going to buy a beach cruiser bike from Performance online this weekend -- it's on sale and I have a $50 coupon as well. They don't carry this model in their shops, so my only option is to order online. If I have it delivered to the shop (I'm just a few miles away), will they assemble it for me without charging extra? Just wondering. I can certainly ask them but wondered if anyone has been there, done that.

Thanks!

[Zen]

I can't think of anything good to say about this either.
I hope you already have a really good relationship with your LBS.

[Cataboo]

Yes, they will assemble it without charging you extra.


And unlike your local shop, if for whatever reason at any point you don't like it, you can return the bike.


It's a beach cruiser for christ sake, who needs a relationship with their local bike shop for a beach cruiser?

[JennK13]

And unlike your local shop, if for whatever reason at any point you don't like it, you can return the bike.


A friend of mine returned his bike to Performance after graduating college and moving across country. He needed the money....they took it back, no hassles.

[emily_in_nc]

Yes, they will assemble it without charging you extra.

And unlike your local shop, if for whatever reason at any point you don't like it, you can return the bike.

It's a beach cruiser for christ sake, who needs a relationship with their local bike shop for a beach cruiser?

Thank you for your support, Cataboo. I know a lot of folks on here are very down on Performance, but the mail order business is a bit different from their actual shops, where we've been pleased with the service we've received in the past. Since we live just a few miles from the Chapel Hill Performance, it actually *is* our LBS. Is there a rule against an LBS being a chain store? Very few LBSs carry beach cruisers in stock unless you live at the coast, so I have had a devil of a time trying to find one that meets my specifications (aluminum frame, women's model, 3-speed hub). I did email a local Trek shop about a Trek Womens' beach cruiser and never received an reply, so I don't feel inclined to give them my business.

My current steed is a Bike Friday, which I purchased direct from BF as most of them are sold that way, and my DH and I do all the maintenance on them. We buy most parts/accessories from Performance b/c it happens to be the most convenient and closest shop physically to us.

Anyway, I stopped in today and asked, and they will assemble the bike. I also asked them about keeping the box since we'll eventually be shipping it, and they said "no problem". :)

[warneral]

I know nothing about performance bike, can you show us what one you're looking at?

[invsblwmn]

I have been burned SOOOO many times by Performance/Nashbar (same company) by them charging my credit card more than what is on the online receipt, that I will not work with them. If you trust them and your LBS is honorable, go for it. I am all about cheaper, if it is. :) I caught them ripping me after I had made 22 purchases over a 3 month period. 19 of these charges were overages. Most by a dollar or two, but one was over $10. My credit card company corrected the overages when they saw the receipts. I took performance to the BBB to just get them to admit what they were doing as I got ZERO response from Sue, director of customer service. Eventually Sue did respond and she even sent a gift card for the overages. I used it with a coupon and NO CREDIT CARD and that was my last transaction with them. Just be careful, check your receipt, and use a one time use credit card number. Enjoy the cruiser!

[warneral]

I got some screaming deals from nashbar on some diadora MTB shoes but I will take note!!! Thanks for the warning.

[Crankin]

I know I'm in the minority, but we have never (in about 12 years) had problems with Performance (on-line). There are no stores here. People can get all huffy about "support your LBS," but the truth is that our local LBS (or several of them) don't make me that happy. Especially the one where I bought my current bike. Besides the fact that I won't buy another bike there and highly discourage anyone else from doing so, I haven't really had great experiences anywhere. There is one other store that is close, where DS worked in HS. Because of this, the owners know me and I get treated respectfully (well, OK, it's mostly "How's Scott?" when I go in there). I have bought a few accessories there, when I didn't have time to wait for TE, Terry, or Performance. I am not sure I would buy a bike there, though. That said, I wouldn't buy a road bike from Performance, but what Emily is describing sounds like a perfect option. I don't think she should be feeling badly about this choice!
We buy all of our parts from Performance and DH does all of the work. It saves tons of $ and most of all, DH likes doing the work. He plans to do some kind of wrenching as retirement job, when the time comes.
If the "ideal" bike shop opened by me, I would be very happy, but DH would still do all of the work on our bikes and we would still buy parts from Performance.

[emily_in_nc]

Thanks for the support, Crankin! When I've bought road bikes in the past I've bought from a "real" LBS (that has since gone out of business) or ebay but then had significant ($$$) work done at an LBS. But for parts and gear, Performance it is. For clothing, I buy from TE, Terry, and Performance, in that order.

Anyway, here's the bike I ordered:

http://www.schwinnbike.com/usa/eng/Products/Cruisers/Details/1474-S10DEB-Debutante

I would have preferred the red, but only the pink was available since it's the end of the model year, and I got a great deal, so I'm excited. I've never bought this type of bike before, but it's what we need for Belize. :D

[Blueberry]

I've never bought this type of bike before, but it's what we need for Belize. :D

Ummm....I think you need to share:) The rest of us need to live vicariously through you! :D:D

[warneral]

too cute! Yes tell us more about beach-riding in Belize!

[emily_in_nc]

DH and I are building a small vacation/retirement condo on Ambergris Caye in Belize. We've been to the island twice on vacation, and the beach riding is really, really fun. We've rented cruiser bikes and have ridden for miles up and down the beach, on little trails, on packed sand, etc. Of course we have to have our own bikes to go with our condo! :D

Here are a few shots of us riding there in August:

http://i816.photobucket.com/albums/zz82/emilys7atgmaildotcom/Cycling/biking2.jpg

http://i816.photobucket.com/albums/zz82/emilys7atgmaildotcom/Cycling/biking5.jpg

http://i816.photobucket.com/albums/zz82/emilys7atgmaildotcom/Cycling/biking7.jpg

And stopping for food/drink along the way (part of the fun!)

http://i816.photobucket.com/albums/zz82/emilys7atgmaildotcom/Cycling/biking8.jpg

[Crankin]

That bike is very cool looking!
Hey, you could be on HGTV International House Hunters!
When are you planning on moving permanently? I'm still hoping to do that trip to NC that I had to cancel a couple of years ago.

[warneral]

how fun! I love HHinternational :) Like to live vicariously through people like you on that show!

[emily_in_nc]

There have been several episodes of HHI filmed in Belize, and a few of the places they looked at, we have ridden or walked by and know exactly where they are! Very cool.... But since we've already picked out our condo, you won't be seeing us on the show.

[Jo-n-NY]

Wishing you much enjoyment with your Beach Cruiser Emily. To be honest they were all the rage here on Long Island this summer with the teenagers and not just for beach riding. That is what I call a "fun" bike. We all need one of those ;)

[sandra]

Be sure and post a picture! That looks so cool for your beach rides.

[sarahspins]

People can get all huffy about "support your LBS," but the truth is that our local LBS (or several of them) don't make me that happy.

I think this is a good point.. I am lucky to live in an area with (mostly) great shops, so I've never truly had an overwhelmingly negative experience in one.

My preferred source for most generic parts and labor is... REI. My sister used to rag on me becuase it wasn't a 'real' LBS, but they're friendly, they're close, and the head mechanic at mine is really great. They fixed my bike for free after my dog-crash even when it included replacing several parts. I don't know that my LBS would have done so.. not that they wouldn't have been helpful, but I don't think they would have gotten it done the same day I brought it in, for no charge :)

[emily_in_nc]

Picking the pink cruiser bike up Saturday! Really quick shipping as I only ordered it Sunday. Called and talked to a guy at Performance today, and he couldn't have been nicer. Yes, it's assembled already (I just don't have time to get it until Sat.); yes, they have tons of bike boxes, no problem. So far, this has been a very positive experience.

Hopefully the bike will be as sweet as I expect! Will definitely post a picture once I get it. It's supposed to be in the 80s over the weekend, so I'll be able to tool around on it a bit after picking it up (after our regularly scheduled Sat. morning market ride). :)

[emily_in_nc]

Here she is! Very girly, very pink. I'd actually have preferred something less flashy, but this bike was the only one I could find that had all the features I was looking for.

http://i816.photobucket.com/albums/zz82/emilys7atgmaildotcom/Cycling/Schwinn_cruiser800x528.jpg

She seems so HUGE next to my tiny little Bike Friday Petite Pocket Crusoe (20" wheels) and even my MTB b/c of the high/wide handlebars and HUGE saddle. I must say, tho, that saddle is pretty darn comfy for on a beach bike where you don't typically wear padded bike shorts and sit much more upright. And she fits just fine despite her largess... :D

[kermit]

That is sooooo cool, is that a cupholder? NICE!

[sandra]

I can see you now cruising on it!

[Owlie]

Oh wow, that's pink! Have fun!

[sandra]

I'd have to name her Peppi - as in Pepto Bismol pink, but in a good way. :cool:

[WindingRoad]

OMG Emily those are some gorgeous pics! I totally see the need for the beach cruiser. Not that anyone has to 'justify' buying a bike around me:D. I love the Schwinn! I agree the red is hot but the pink is really cute too. Enjoy the new bike. Preinstalled margarita holder, how cool is that!;)

[Bike Chick]

She's beautiful!!! I love the beer cup holder:D

How are you getting her down there?

[Selkie]

Lovely bike! I don't think you could do anything but smile while you're riding that bike. It radiates happiness.

Belize, eh? Hmmm...... will have to check that out as a possible retirement spot!

[emily_in_nc]

Thanks for all the support! Yes, that is a cup holder.

I have to admit, I'm having some buyer's remorse already -- something I have never had with any bike I've ever bought. I'm just afraid this bike is going to be too flashy for Belize and make me look like too much of a "rich gringo", even though it wasn't expensive at all. It's just a lot & brighter flashier in person than it was on the website!

I think if I were to swap out the saddle and grips for black, it would take it down a notch, so I might do that.

Also thinking about returning it and finding something in a more neutral color. That is not easy to do in a women's beach cruiser; they all seem to be in pink, aqua, etc, flowery, etc.

Still thinking on it...if this were for the US, I'd keep it in a heartbeat, but the fact that it's going to a foreign country, I am considering the cultural implications.

Sigh...

[gnat23]

That. Bike. Is. Awesome.

Next investment: streamers. :D

-- gnat!

[badgercat]

I think if I were to swap out the saddle and grips for black, it would take it down a notch, so I might do that.

Also thinking about returning it and finding something in a more neutral color. That is not easy to do in a women's beach cruiser; they all seem to be in pink, aqua, etc, flowery, etc.

Still thinking on it...if this were for the US, I'd keep it in a heartbeat, but the fact that it's going to a foreign country, I am considering the cultural implications.

If you're concerned about it being too flashy, I agree, black seat/grips probably would tone it down a fair bit. Since those are fairly easy things to swap out, maybe try that before making a decision on trying to find a different-color frame?

Then again, I would think that being seen as a "rich gringa" would be as much about how you carry yourself as what you're carrying (or riding, in this case). You don't really strike me as the type to go around with your nose up in the air. :o I've never been to Belize, though, so you would of course know the culture better than I--if your gut is telling you this bike is too much, I certainly won't try to convince you otherwise.

[kermit]

Everybody on the island will know thats YOUR bike, thats cool!

[hebe]

I do like a bike that matches itself, and that is outrageously pink!

I think that Globe do a 3 speed women's cruiser - Carmel? But honestly, you seem kind and considerate enough to fit in fine, regardless of the colour of your bike.

[Cataboo]

I would think as long as you are out and about and riding your bike and trying to speak the language some - as opposed to living behind a gated walled community and not speaking the language at all for 10 years or whatever, you'll be fine..


I am not sure I know anything against the color pink in Belize, but I've never been - but I think most of the south/central american countries love color and you'll be fine!

[sandra]

I think the bike is awesome and I wouldn't change a thing! The countries south of the USA that I've visited all love bright color.

[emily_in_nc]

Thanks for all the kind replies, ladies.

I am still thinking on it (where's that scratching chin smiley from Yahoo IM when you need it?!) :o

[Jo-n-NY]

My first thought when I saw the pic was "what a pretty bike". I love it. However, you know Belize best since you have been there so I cannot comment on that. The cup holder is so cool. Let us know what you decide.

[sandra]

Most importantly - how does she ride? :cool:

[GLC1968]

Emily - In addition to switching out the grips and saddle, could you find tires that don't have white sidewalls? I think that would take down the 'flash' factor a couple of notches as well.

It is definitely a cute bike though!

[emily_in_nc]

Ok, here's the update in this continuing saga... I took the very pink Schwinn out for a ride today at lunchtime, and she rides just great and is very comfy, but I have two problems with her (besides her flashy looks):

1. She's really heavy -- 35.5 lbs. My DH's Trek Cruiseliner weighs two lbs. less than that, and he's a lot bigger than me, so it's easier for him to heft his bike around. I know cruiser bikes are heavy, but I can't even carry her up stairs. So that's a big minus for me.

2. When I got out of the saddle to go over a little rise, my knees hit the flared out part where the cupholder is. Not good. I am sure they never expect anyone to stand on a cruiser bike, but without a full arsenal of gears, it's the only way to get over little rises, and besides, I *like* to stand an accelerate -- gives the tush a rest too. I got out of the saddle quite a bit on the rental bikes we rode in Belize. Also, the cup holder is way too tiny - the only bottle I think would fit in it is a thin purchased water bottle, not a regular water bottle. Maybe a can, but I don't typically drink sodas anyway.

So...I think three strikes, and she's going back to Performance. I am sure someone will absolutely love her, but I want to get something lighter and simpler. I think I'm going to just go for a single speed to save weight. The 3-speed hub is nice but adds weight and is kinda distracting since it clicks as you roll along, and I'd rather just stand on the small hills.

I found another aluminum cruiser bike I really like - a Giant Simple Single W - and it's carried at an LBS in Raleigh. According to their stock list, they actually have one in stock (and there are two others in this chain that claim to have one as well), so I may go take a look at it in person, see how bright and flashy it is in person (learned my lesson on that!), pick it up for weight, and ride it around the parking lot. If that doesn't work out, I'll keep looking as there's really no rush, but I was hoping to get a 2010 on sale rather than pay the 2011 prices.

Thanks for all the kind support, ladies! :p

[emily_in_nc]

Emily - In addition to switching out the grips and saddle, could you find tires that don't have white sidewalls? I think that would take down the 'flash' factor a couple of notches as well.

Good point, GLC! For some reason, nearly all the women's cruiser bikes come with white-sidewall tires, and the men's don't. Same with all the pastel, girly colors. Some even have pink or aqua rims! I could definitely change out the tires, but since I'm changing out the whole bike, I guess I'll have to see if I need to with whatever bike I end up with. I hate to be wasteful and spend money unnecessarily to replace brand new tires.

[emily_in_nc]

And a very happy ending it is. I was looking at beach cruiser bikes on craigslist the night before last, and found one I hadn't seen in my extensive research online before at all - a Marin Heart's Desire single speed. It was much less showy (no white sidewall tires even!) and less $ than the Schwinn since it was used. And aluminum, which I wanted for the anti-rust and weight benefits. I called the seller the next morning (yesterday) and it was still available. Went to see, rode it around some, and bought it (even bargained the price down a bit since it had been listed for a week)!

I absolutely LOVE this bike -- I couldn't wipe the smile off my face the rest of the day yesterday. And isn't that how it's supposed to be when you buy a new bike?! I've named her "Flor" (Spanish for flower). I haven't had a second to take any photos yet, but here she is in the Marin catalog: http://www.marinbikes.com/bicycles_2007/html/bikes/bike_specs/specs_hearts_06.html. She's in great condition, hardly been ridden, and lighter than the pink bike. She'll be perfect for Belize and even matches my DH's navy blue Trek Cruiseliner really well. They look like siblings!

The pink bike goes back to Performance this weekend. I don't expect any problems other than feeling bad about having to return it.

Thanks again for all the nice comments and support! :D

[Cataboo]

That is really cute. Remember that salt corrodes aluminum (it pits, but doesn't rust) - so still rinse her every so often.

[sandra]

I love it when things all come together and work out! I can see where you would be much happier with that bike, PLUS, you saved $$$ and that's always good! I'm happy to hear that it all worked out. I like this bike better too!

[Crankin]

Take some pictures on the bike, when you get it.
It looks a lot less "girly" than the pink bike. I have nothing against pink, but I understand how you felt about bringing a screaming pink bike to another country.... one of my friends is currently on a 3 week cruise to Italy, Greece, and Egypt. They are spending a lot of time off of the boat. When she was preparing for the trip, she was raving about the things she purchased: a breathable rain jacket from Land's End, new sneakers, and a fanny pack ;). Since she's not doing any hiking on the trip (and she's a good friend), I reminded her how the fanny pack, especially, would brand her as an "ugly" American. She asked me how in the world I dressed when I did a lot of walking in Europe. When I told her my goal was to look as much like a European woman, i.e. flat, stylish walking shoes, a scarf, and my regular large black tote bag, she told me she thought that would mark me as a target for robbery! Like, carrying a regular bag would mean I was going to get robbed.
Sorry to get off of topic.

[Jo-n-NY]

You chose another lovely bike. The blue is certainly less flashy. Yes, you are right, you should be smiling and very excited about your new bike with no
2nd guessing.

Enjoy! and lots of luck and happy riding miles especially in Belize :)

[emily_in_nc]

Finally got her out to verify the saddle height and setback late today, just for a quick little jaunt around the parking lot. The good:

1. She weighs 5 lbs. less than the pink Schwinn. Yes, I said FIVE lbs! That's huge.
2. The saddle has really long rails so I can have it all the way back as I need for my proportions to get the proper knee-over-pedal-spindle position. The Schwinn had really short little rails.
3. She's just plain fun to ride! I love this little bike - riding a single-speed, coaster-brake cruiser is truly like being a kid again. :D :p

http://i816.photobucket.com/albums/zz82/emilys7atgmaildotcom/Cycling/marin_hearts_desire.jpg

http://i816.photobucket.com/albums/zz82/emilys7atgmaildotcom/Cycling/riding_flor.jpg

Took the pink bike back to Performance yesterday, and they were fine about the return. I did lose $31 in oversize shipping charges, which is not refunded. That's really my only complaint -- REI doesn't charge anything for shipping if you ship items to the store, but Performance does. Other than that, they were helpful and fine to deal with for the entire transaction.

[kmehrzad]

Finally got her out to verify the saddle height and setback late today, just for a quick little jaunt around the parking lot. The good:

1. She weighs 5 lbs. less than the pink Schwinn. Yes, I said FIVE lbs! That's huge.
2. The saddle has really long rails so I can have it all the way back as I need for my proportions to get the proper knee-over-pedal-spindle position. The Schwinn had really short little rails.
3. She's just plain fun to ride! I love this little bike - riding a single-speed, coaster-brake cruiser is truly like being a kid again. :D :p

http://i816.photobucket.com/albums/zz82/emilys7atgmaildotcom/Cycling/marin_hearts_desire.jpg

http://i816.photobucket.com/albums/zz82/emilys7atgmaildotcom/Cycling/riding_flor.jpg

Took the pink bike back to Performance yesterday, and they were fine about the return. I did lose $31 in oversize shipping charges, which is not refunded. That's really my only complaint -- REI doesn't charge anything for shipping if you ship items to the store, but Performance does. Other than that, they were helpful and fine to deal with for the entire transaction.

Emily,

Congrats!! You look so happy on your new bike. I hope you have many, many miles of enjoyable rides on your bicycle.

[Jo-n-NY]

Such a pretty bike and you look great on it. ENJOY!!!

[Crankin]

I like how your top coordinates with your new bike.
It looks more "you" than the pink.

[divingbiker]

Cool bike.

May I ask where on Ambergris Caye your condo is? I've been there four or five times and love it also. We looked at real estate the last time, but couldn't find a place that would accommodate the extended family comfortably at a reasonable price.

I'm jealous!

[Bike Chick]

This one is really cool too!!! And it looks great on you. I did really like the cup holder on the pink bike though:D:D: It looks like a fun bike.

[warneral]

OOOh I like the looks of the Marin better :) Congrats!

[Triskeliongirl]

I don't know how I missed this, but ENJOY!

[emily_in_nc]

I like how your top coordinates with your new bike.
It looks more "you" than the pink.

Thanks - I agree. I wear a lot more blue than pink anyway.

[Catrin]

Very nice bike! I do like the blue better than the pink, and you look great riding it!