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Man putting a bike on a repair rack inside a shop.

Why is it better to buy from a bike shop?

Bicycles aren't like hamburgers, toasters or suitcases. Bikes require skilled professional assembly to get the best performance, safety and longevity, as well as proper measurements and adjustments. Every new bicycle needs a minor tune up after its break-in period and regular maintenance throughout its lifetime. A quality ride, carefully assembled to fit you, is one of the best investments you can make.

Where you buy has everything to do with what you get.

When you shop from a local bike shop like Ken's Bike-Ski-Board you'll get more than two wheels. You'll get a lifetime of care, personalized service, and expert advice.

1. We have the right bike for you.

 

We offer a wide selection of bicycles for different people and uses.  And we provide expert assistance in selecting the proper bike type and model.  For example, a road bike makes little sense if your plan is to tackle Sierra dirt.  Likewise, if you're into cruising, you certainly don't need to test ride racing rigs.  You need the bike type that's right for you, and Ken's experienced staff will listen to you and help you choose.  Then we'll custom fit your new ride, so it feels like an extension of you!

2. Every bike you buy, is custom fit to you.

 

Bicycles come in different sizes. And they're very adjustable. We measure your height, shoulder width, arm length and leg length, then find the right frame size for you and finally "dial in" the fit by positioning all components optimally. This sometimes takes a little longer, but ensures that you're comfortable and in complete control of your bike. There are many variables, too: If you need a softer saddle, we'll put one on.  If you prefer to sit more upright, we can accommodate you. Our goal is to match your new bike to your cycling goals and to the unique needs of your body. We have years of experience in fitting bikes to riders and we'll get yours fitting so well and running so smoothly, it just disappears beneath you!

3. All our new bikes are assembled by professional bicycle mechanics.

 

You might be surprised to learn that bicycles are not completely assembled at the factory. It's true. They're actually delivered to us in a box, and we typically spend two hours or more (depending on the model) assembling, tuning and testing every bike (at no additional charge to you) before it ever sees our display floor. This is required by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission and by our dealer agreements with quality bicycle manufacturers. We pride ourselves in meeting high standards -- our reputation, after all, is riding on your bike! What's more, Ken's Bike Surgeons are always prepared to make adjustments and provide advice should you need assistance during or after your bicycle purchase decision.

4. We encourage test rides, the best way to select a new machine.

 

How do you know if that new rig is the right ride for you?  The truest way to judge a bike is by taking it out for a spin.  Roll down the street, try fast & slow, take some corners, roll over smooth pavement, rough pavement, even the railroad tracks.  Then shift through the gears.  Feel how the frame fits your legs and arms. Try the brakes.  Stand up and climb (the Covell Overpass).  Coast a bit.  We're proud of the job we do assembling and tuning the bikes you find at Ken's.  Does your test ride feel comfortable, easy to pedal, smooth?  Is it quiet?  Do you love the ride?  Make some mental notes and return to our shop.  Try another, if you like.  We're happy to let you compare several bikes from our wide selection, so you find a wonderful ride for years to come.

5. Our experienced staff is happy to offer all the free cycling advice you need.

 

We're staffed by knowledgeable and enthusiastic cyclists who love to share their expertise (when you ask -- they're trained to listen first!). Need to learn how to shift, fix a flat, carry gear, pump your tires? Want to find the best places to ride or friends to pedal with? Just ask, and we'll be more than happy to help.

6. Every new bike comes with a free tune-up & llifetime service discount.


Bicycles are machines that require maintenance.  One of the most important services is the first tune-up, which is due after you've ridden your new bike for a few weeks.  During this time, cables might stretch, spokes may loosen and adjustments often change.  For your new rig to ride right and last as long as possible, Ken's Bike-Ski-Board provides a free tune-up where we thoroughly check all systems (a $30 to $50 value, depending on the work required); just drop it off overnight or, if you're coming from out of town, call ahead and we can often do it while you have lunch or run another errand.

Because the bikes we sell are better built to begin with (and therefore easier to work on), we now offer a 15% discount on all other repairs you might need, whenever the bike and parts are purchased from us, for as long as you own your bike (which could be a very, very long time).

7. All our bikes are guaranteed.

 

Ken's Bike-Ski-Board stands behind every bike we sell.  If something goes wrong, bring it in and we'll be happy to help you with it.  In the rare event of a breakdown, there's also a manufacturer's warranty protecting your purchase; many of the quality brands we represent still offer a Limited Lifetime Warranty that covers you against defect in frame materials & workmanship for as long as you own the bike!

8. Our bikes offer the highest quality, longest life and best resale value.

 

We don't just stock any bicycles. Because we stand behind our products, we research, test and offer to you only the very finest brands and models in each price range. Bikes like the Marin Larkspur CS2, a beautiful lightweight city bike that handles everything from daily commutes to Farmers' Market runs to weekend spins to Winters with grace and style; it's our perennial best seller, and under $500. Or Specialized road bikes -- choice of Tour de France winners and of the Davis Bike Club Race Team. And many, many more, starting at less than $200.  All this means that you get a great bike that will last and last with nothing more than regular care and maintenance.  And, should you decide to upgrade, you'll be able to sell the bike for a good price (or in the case of kids bikes purchased here, trade it in toward a larger size!).

9. We carry all the best accessories to go with your new bike.

 

Cycling's most fun when you have the right gear to go along with that new bike.  Our store is loaded with top-quality accessories and equipment such as helmets, locks, pumps, hydration systems, computers, and plenty of other goodies designed to help you enjoy riding.  Plus clothing for all seasons -- stay happy and dry, from fingers to toes, in any riding weather.  We're happy to advise which choices might be best for you -- and let you try them on in a clean, spacious private dressing room.  You'll find everything you need at Ken's!