Great Question! My recommendation is to buy a bike in the town that you live in. If your town does not have a bike shop, then find the one nearest you.
There are many reasons why I say that.
I like to give my business to the locals when I can. You are supporting the town you live in, helping their businesses grow and it makes good sense to develop a relationship with the bike shop owners and staff. Owning a bike requires regular maintainence, tune ups, etc. and its good to know someone in town who is a professional so that when you need help, you have somewhere to go to get the help and advice you need.
Many bike shops offer free maintainence when you purchase a bike from them, so, if its close, it's much easier to keep it maintained and take advantage of that great free offer.
Also, you will need to make purchases in a bike shop on a somewhat frequent basis (if you like jerseys, bike accessories, etc like me :) and when you go to shop, you'll have people you know who can make the appropriate recommendations.
These days bike shops are also offering group rides, events, seminars etc out of their bike shop. This is another way to stay connected to other cyclists and find friends who also love cycling!
K, so lets get out there and ride!
because lifes a great ride.......
Coach Shelley
