When is the best time of year to buy a bike? Is it soon, I hope?

[lxb87]

I really want a bike and was so close to purchasing my first in September but then chickened out since it was getting colder out. Of course it warmed up for the next two months and I kick myself now. I called the LBS today and it's still the same price, $439. I didn't want to ask if it'll go on clearance soon in case that's rude. It's a Cannondale Quick 6, if that matters. They're sold out at REI, I see online. Here I thought with Christmas and the snow outside it would be on sale!

[jyyanks]

Well, I know the end of September is usually a great time to buy a bike as most LBS's have sales to make way for new inventory. I heard that some also have big sales right before the season too. You can wait to see if it will go on sale (they eventually do). The problem is that sometimes they have these sales but they don't have the bike you want in the size you need. If you found a bike that you like, and it's in your size and it's decently priced, I would buy it. Also, buying from a reputable LBS that can service and support the bike after you buy it, is worth the extra money. Good Luck!

[ny biker]

Some shops still have 2011 bikes in stock, and they're on sale.

Otherwise, follow your favorite shop on facebook or twitter so you can find out about their sales. I know two that had Black Friday sales, and they might have more specials for the holidays.

I don't usually see sales in January/February, except deals on maintenance to encourage people not to wait for spring when they get really busy.

[redrhodie]

I spend a lot of time in my lbs, so I know they slow way down in Jan and Feb. So if you want the best time to get waited on and ask questions, it's then. I don't know if you'll get the best deal then, but you'll probably get the best help.

[7rider]

I spend a lot of time in my lbs, so I know they slow way down in Jan and Feb. So if you want the best time to get waited on and ask questions, it's then. I don't know if you'll get the best deal then, but you'll probably get the best help.

You might get attention - and maybe even a deal - but you may not get the bike you want. Depending on the size you're looking for, inventory on "last year's" bike is getting rare (as you see REI sold out) and when they're gone...they're gone. "Next year's" bikes - they might not be so willing to deal on.