I have a friend who is slightly intrigued by the idea of replacing her heavy 1980s bike with something new. But if she upgrades, she wants to be darned sure she understands what she's buying and why. Is there a bike shop in the Alexandria (VA) area (or nearby) that TE'ers can recommend that won't simply try to sell her a bike, but will first spend a bit of time with her explaining what's what? (i.e. Why Bike X is worth $X and Bike Y is worth $Y?)
My guess is that she would be in the market for something in the $1000-$1500 range (sale price). Not entry level, but not high-end either.
She's in super shape at age 60 from walking and working out. If she gets a new bike, she'll take it as seriously as she does the rest of her exercise. (When she was last 'into' biking, she regularly did 30-50 mile rides every weekend.)
Thoughts about where she should head?
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06-20-2009, 02:34 AM #1
Dog Is My Co-Pilot
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Bike shop in Alexandria (VA) area
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06-20-2009, 03:24 AM #2
Registered User
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- Oct 2004
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- 1,993
I like Spokes in Alexandria (Quaker Lane store) but mainly for their mechanics. I've purchased bikes from them but not as a returning/new biker. Steer clear of Revolution Cycles in Clarendon.
Suggest your friend make the drive to College Park and go to Proteus.
I think NYBiker likes the Bike Lane -- it's in Burke, not too far from Alexandria (she can get on Little River Turnpike and head west). Also, I've been in Conte's in Ballston and got a good vibe from the folks who work there.
Luna Eclipse//Terry B'fly
Luna Orbit//Sella Italia Ldy Gel Flow
Bianchi Eros Donna//Terry Falcon
Seven Alaris//Jett 143
Terry Isis (Titanium)//Terry B'fly
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06-20-2009, 07:18 AM #3
Dog Is My Co-Pilot
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- Oct 2007
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Great suggestions, thanks! I'll pass 'em along to my friend.
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06-20-2009, 08:02 AM #4
thickly settled
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Yeah, Spokes is good, but for buying a bike it was worth it for me to drive to either Burke or Reston for The Bike Lane. www.thebikelane.com.
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06-25-2009, 09:26 AM #5
Ain't Love a Surprise?
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I've heard good things about the Bike Lane, but never ventured there when I lived in the area. I would second going to Proteus. I bought one bike there and they serviced my other bikes. I would still go there if I were closer!
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06-25-2009, 07:31 PM #6
Clueless
- Join Date
- Dec 2008
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- Maryland
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What they said.. so far from me compared to the millions of other bike shops in my area, but it was worth it.
Originally Posted by tulip
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