Where to Buy Bikes Online in the UK

Last Updated on December 31, 2023 by Vinson Lozano

Welcome to the digital age, where everything you need is just a click away – including your next bicycle! As you contemplate the convenience of shopping from the comfort of your home, you might wonder why you should buy bikes online and what factors are crucial to consider before making your purchase. Buckle up as we accelerate through the ins and outs of online bike shopping.

Why buy bikes online?

Wide selection: Access an extensive range of models, styles, and colors that physical stores can’t match.
Convenience: Shop anytime, anywhere, without the need to visit multiple stores.
Price comparison: Easily compare prices across different platforms to find the best deals.
Customer reviews: Benefit from the experience of other buyers to make a more informed decision.
Direct-to-consumer models: Some brands offer exclusive online discounts and models not available in stores.

Factors to consider when buying bikes online

Proper sizing: Ensure you know your size to avoid discomfort or inefficient riding.
Return policy: Familiarize yourself with the return policy in case the bike doesn’t meet your expectations.
Assembly required: Be ready to assemble parts of your bike or budget for professional help.
Warranty: Check the warranty period and what it covers to safeguard your investment.
Shipping costs and time: Consider shipping fees and delivery timelines before finalizing your purchase.

As you gear up to add to cart, keep these pointers in mind for a smooth and successful online bike buying journey.

Popular Online Bike Retailers

As you pedal into the digital marketplace, you’ll want to acquaint yourself with the top online bike retailers. With a myriad of options available, these stores stand out as popular choices for cyclists of all levels.

Evans Cycles

Extensive Catalogue: From road bikes to mountain bikes, Evans Cycles offers a diverse range of brands and models.
Expert Advice: Benefit from the in-depth buying guides and knowledgeable staff ready to assist you online.
Flexible Delivery: Choose between home delivery and click & collect options for convenience.
Regular Sales: Watch out for sales and promotions that could save you money on premium bikes.

Chain Reaction Cycles

Worldwide Shipping: They cater to customers globally, making them a go-to for international shoppers.
Price Match: Chain Reaction Cycles guarantees competitive pricing with their price match feature.
Loyalty Discounts: Take advantage of their loyalty program designed to reward returning customers.
Comprehensive Filter: Easily narrow down your search with detailed filters for a tailored shopping experience.

Remember, with each retailer, it’s important to consider the factors mentioned earlier, such as proper sizing, return policy, and shipping details. Now, get ready to find your ideal ride and hit the checkout button with confidence knowing you’re well-equipped with credible retailer options.

As you navigate the vast expanse of the internet in search of your next two-wheeled companion, you may find yourself visiting the world’s largest online marketplace.

Amazon

Massive Selection: Amazon’s bike selection is incredibly broad, offering options for everyone from the casual rider to the serious enthusiast.
User Reviews: Make informed decisions with the help of an extensive array of customer reviews on product pages.
Convenient Shipping: With options ranging from standard to expedited shipping, Amazon Prime members often enjoy free two-day shipping on eligible items.
Easy Returns: Benefit from a user-friendly return policy that typically allows you to send back unsatisfactory items with ease.
Competitive Pricing: Regular deals, discounts, and the opportunity to buy used items can make for some budget-friendly finds.

Take the time to sift through the many options presented to you, keeping an eye on the key factors such as bike specifications, shipping costs, and the credibility of sellers. Whether you’re seeking a high-performance bike or just something for leisurely rides, Amazon’s vast marketplace is at your service, ready to deliver your dream bike right to your doorstep.

Specialty Bike Shops

When considering a more bespoke cycling experience, diving into specialty bike shops can heighten your quest for the perfect ride. Let’s explore notable retailers that cater to your specialized biking desires.

Wiggle

Expertise at Hand: Wiggle offers skilled guidance for both the newbie and seasoned cyclist.
Quality Brands: They stock a curated selection of premium brands renowned for their craftsmanship.
Worldwide Delivery: Wiggle extends its reach globally, bringing high-quality bikes to your doorstep, no matter where you are.
Customer Rewards: Benefit from their loyalty program that rewards frequent customers with discounts and offers.
Dedicated to Cycling: Specializes in bicycles, you’ll find components, gear, and accessories suited to every cycling niche.

Rutland Cycling

Local to Global: Starting from a small, family-run shop, Rutland Cycling now caters to a wider online audience with the same attention to detail.
Try Before You Buy: They offer a unique test ride service so you can ensure the bike fits your needs before purchase.
Price Match Promise: If you find your chosen bike cheaper elsewhere, Rutland Cycling will match the price.
Workshop Services: Comprehensive aftercare, including maintenance workshops, keeps your bike in top condition.
Finance Options: Affordable finance plans are available to spread the cost of your new bike.

Your passion for pedaling calls for a specialized touch, and these dedicated bike shops offer just that. Step into the bespoke realm of Wiggle and Rutland Cycling and pedal away on a machine that’s as unique as your riding style.

Direct-to-Consumer Brands

As a savvy cyclist, you’re always on the lookout for high-quality bikes that deliver on both performance and value. That’s where direct-to-consumer brands like Canyon and Boardman Bikes come into play. These companies skip the middleman, passing on the savings to you; let’s delve into what they offer.

Canyon

Innovative Engineering: Canyon bikes are the result of relentless innovation and cutting-edge technology.
Competitive Pricing: By selling directly to customers, Canyon ensures you get the most bike for your buck.
Customization: Personalize your ride with an array of components tailored to your preferences.
Professional Quality: Trusted by pros, these bikes are designed to excel in competitions and demanding environments.
Online Convenience: Browse, customize, and order your bike all from the comfort of your home with their user-friendly website.

Boardman Bikes

British Design: Embrace the meticulous design ethos with bikes born from a legacy rooted in cycling excellence.
Accessible Performance: Boardman makes high-performance cycling available without an exorbitant price tag.
Versatility: Whether it’s road, gravel, or mountain, find a Boardman bike that aligns with your varied pursuits.
Supportive Community: Join a community of enthusiasts who value substance over flash and performance over hype.
Remarkable Service: Customer service that’s as reliable as their bikes, ensuring you have a seamless experience from purchase to pavement.

Embark on a journey of uncompromised cycling with Canyon and Boardman Bikes. Experience the freedom of choosing a bike that’s built for enthusiasts, by enthusiasts, without the traditional retail markup.

Bike Manufacturer Websites

When you’re looking to buy a new bike, the manufacturer’s website is your portal to discovering your next great ride. Giant is a name that stands out in the biking industry and their online presence doesn’t disappoint. Here’s what you can expect when navigating the Giant’s website.

Giant

Extensive Range: Giant’s website showcases a vast selection of bikes to suit any type of rider, whether you’re into road racing, mountain biking, or casual jaunts around town.
Detailed Specifications: Each bike is accompanied by comprehensive details, allowing you to compare frames, components, and technology with ease.
Virtual Fitting: Use their innovative fitting tool to ensure the bike you’re interested in matches your body for optimal comfort and performance.
Compare and Contrast: Directly compare different models and prices to see which bike offers the features you need within your budget.
Customer Reviews: Read experiences from other Giant bike owners, getting a genuine perspective on the bike’s performance and reliability.

Dive into the Giant experience with confidence, knowing every click brings you closer to finding a bike that fits your lifestyle and your cycling aspirations without ever leaving your home.

Second-hand Bike Platforms

For those of you considering a more economical route to bike ownership, second-hand platforms might just be your ticket to cycling thrills without the hefty price tag. We’ll explore a couple of the top platforms for used bikes: Preloved and Gumtree.

Preloved

User-Friendly Interface: Start your search on Preloved with ease; the site is intuitive and makes finding the right bike simple and stress-free.
Varied Selection: From nearly-new to vintage, there’s a wide array of bikes at different price points for seasoned cyclists and newbies alike.
Local Deals: Find bikes in your vicinity, making it convenient to view and test ride before making a decision.
Community Trust: With buyer and seller ratings, you can gauge the reliability and trustworthiness of the other party before transacting.

Gumtree

Largest Marketplace: Gumtree boasts a massive selection of second-hand bikes, giving you plenty of options to choose from.
Direct Negotiation: Contact sellers directly through the platform to negotiate prices and ask for more details or pictures.
Search Flexibility: Filter your search by location, price, bike type, and condition to narrow down your options effectively.
Regular Updates: Listings are constantly updated, ensuring you have access to the latest deals on the market.

Whether it’s through Preloved’s trusted community or Gumtree’s expansive market, you’re likely to find a bike that doesn’t stretch your wallet. Remember, due diligence is key when buying second-hand – but with the right research and patience, you can cycle off into the sunset with a bargain.

Bike Hire and Subscription Services

If purchasing a second-hand bike doesn’t align with your plans or lifestyle, perhaps bike hire and subscription services offer the flexibility you seek. Here’s a look at two prominent options that allow you to enjoy the freedom of cycling without ownership concerns.

Mobike

No Ownership Hassles: With Mobike, forget the worries of maintenance and storage – it’s all taken care of.
Pay-per-use System: Only pay for the time you ride, making it a cost-effective solution for occasional cyclists.
Smartphone Convenience: Unlock bikes using an app on your phone, which means you can start your ride from almost anywhere.
Eco-friendly Transport: By using Mobike, you’re choosing a sustainable mode of transportation that reduces your carbon footprint.

Brompton Bike Hire

Portable Bikes: Brompton’s foldable bikes are perfect for commuters who need to switch between cycling and public transport.
Flexible Rental Periods: Rent a bike for a day, a week, or even longer to suit your schedule.
Easy Pickup and Return: Accessible docks across various locations make the process hassle-free.
Try Before You Buy: Use the rental service as an extended test ride if you’re considering purchasing a Brompton bike.

Whether you’re an urban commuter or a weekend adventurer, bike hire and subscription services like Mobike and Brompton Bike Hire provide the ultimate in flexibility and convenience. Ride on your terms and explore your surroundings with ease.

Conclusion

With the options of bike hire and subscription services readily available, you have the luxury to travel on two wheels with unprecedented convenience. Whether it’s the lure of Mobike’s pay-per-use system or the quirky charm of a Brompton foldable bike, your cycling needs can be met without the long-term commitment of ownership.

Tips for a successful online bike purchase

Research Extensively: Know your preferences, and read reviews to find the bike that fits your lifestyle and budget.
Verify Seller Credibility: Check ratings and customer feedback when purchasing from online marketplaces.
Protect Your Payment: Use secure methods and platforms that offer buyer protection.
Consider the Return Policy: Always check the return policy in case the bike doesn’t meet your expectations.
Plan for Some Assembly: Be prepared to assemble parts of the bike or budget for professional help.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, the journey towards finding the right bike doesn’t stop at ownership. With bike hire and subscription services, you gain the freedom to cruise the city streets or embark on weekend escapades without the strings attached. Embrace the simplicity and joy of cycling with the added peace of mind that comes from flexible riding options. Remember, the road is yours to enjoy—choose the path that best suits your cycling lifestyle.