Category: | Bicycle Store |
Address: | 756 9th St, Durham, NC 27705, USA |
Phone: | +1 919-251-8103 |
Site: | durhamcycles.com |
Rating: | 5 |
Working: | Closed 10AM–7PM 10AM–7PM 10AM–7PM 10AM–7PM 10AM–6PM 12AM–5PM |
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Bob Grossfeld
Great experience buying new bike for a family member. I have not purchased a new bike in years, certainly not one from a bike shop rather than a less expensive model from a big box store. I chose Durham Cycles based on excellent reviews and convenient location. Although I had read online about different bike styles and accessories and how to choose the right size, I opted for personal service from knowledgeable, helpful individuals in thinking about keeping this one for the long-term and preserving our joints. And, thats what we got. There were plenty of models to view and test and at reasonable prices for quality (which, besides good advice and service, is what you get at a bike shop, not necessarily at a big box store). All the staff were friendly and helpful, especially Domenick, who was very patient in working with us to choose the best model and size for our needs and even explaining the physics of gearing to help with understanding shifting. There was no rush or pressure and he stayed late both times to accommodate our schedule. Choosing involved taking several bikes for a spin on two occasions and having Domenick adjust components for a good ride and even assemble a new bike for the best fit. Upon purchase, the bike leaves the store tuned up with encouragement to return in a month for a followup tuneup (or sooner if need be). All in all, we are looking forward to many days and years riding this bike and I am looking forward to returning to get one for myself. Thank you Durham Cycles and all you folks who directed us there with your reviews.
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Lee Sandstead
Partners in cycling The best thing about Durham Cycles is that they are not simply mechanics or salesmen--they are your partners in cycling. I have dealt with several LBSs over the years, and I have settled on David and DC as my one-stop shop. And this was not an easy decision for me--as I live 60 miles, there are other LBSs that are much closer. I first started going to DC for their excellent bike fitting. As I am new to high-end bikes, I learned of the necessity to make sure that my bike fits. (Not only does a good fitting help with handling and speed, but also makes the ride much more comfortable.) As I got to know David-the-owner and his staff, I felt very comfortable asking them any questions that needed asking, and when I ordered a high-end carbon fiber bike last May--I made the right decision to have Durham Cycles both build and fit the bike for me. But as I mentioned, Durham Cycles is more than just a LBS--they are your partners in cycling. This hit home when I entered this past racing season, and with a week before my big race, my rear wheel cracked. Without hesitation, Durham Cycles took care of the warranty and provided a race-day wheel. (The wheel itself cost more than my entire wheelset!) At each step of my very brief cycling career, Durham Cycles has been there; from when I was the neophyte learning how to spell the word "peddle" correctly--to the mensch of a rider I am today, I thank Durham Cycyles!
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Brendan Hannon
This shop has bikes, parts and gear. If you need those things, they are fine. I would not take my bike here for any maintenance or repairs. Ive ridden for years and do most of my maintenance myself. In the past week, two friends have told me stories that blow my mind. 1) A friend asked if he could make his bike roll a little faster. I suggested that the first thing he could do is buy new tires. He was riding on 700x35s with heavy tread that were rated at 65psi. When he went to the shop and asked for tires that would make his bike faster, the salesperson told him the best way to get faster is to train more. I went with my friend to bullseye cycles and we bought different tires. 2) Another friend got a flat tire. She was quoted $20, and also told that the work would be hard because she has fenders. Both of these answers indicate either a disdain for customers or ignorant sales reps. And telling someone a lie like "fenders make it harder to fix flats" either means their mechanics just bought their first multi tool last week or theyre trying to convince customers that the easiest tasks on bikes are challenging, so why not just let the shop do it. Ive never gotten a good feeling from this shop. I would not recommend going here for honest assessments of your bike or the labor it would need.
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Brett Jordan
Dave at Durham Cycles is THE BEST. He gave me a very thorough and helpful bike fit a few weeks ago. I was experiencing some (ok, a lot of) pain in the nether regions while riding my cross bike that Ive converted to a road bike. Dave was extremely thorough and NEVER condescending while measuring all sorts of angles and measurements that I didnt even know mattered to how my bike fit. He patiently explained what he was doing and answered my questions. He also was (and has been historically) very thoughtful about my financial situation, and made minor changes that were within my budget and would help me feel MUCH better on my bike. As a result of this bike fit, I have NO more pain on the bike, and I have much more power! He followed up with me the next week to make sure I was still feeling good, and throughout the entire experience was extremely pleasant, informative and patient with me! Durham Cycles is THE place to go in the Triangle for your bike needs. They clearly love bikes, and are knowledgeable about all styles of riding.
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Irene Liu
I bought my bike in Chapel Hill in 2007, and at other stores had very corporate, mediocre service. When Durham Cycles opened, I began taking my bike there, and Ive never looked back. The staff has the customers interests at heart and openly discusses what you need and how much it costs up front. They have done both minor and major repairs for me (from tune-ups, to replacing my helmet and all the cables after an accident). Theyre also good about getting in touch with time estimates and letting me know as soon as my bike is ready for pickup. Dave, the owner, is great at explaining things and answering questions - Im not a bike expert by any means, and I never feel like hes talking down to me. I trust his judgment completely. In short, if youre in the Triangle and need anything bike-related, dont hesitate to stop by Durham Cycles!
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Tucker Adams
I recently bought my first real (ie not from Target) bike from this shop and have been very impressed by the customer service. Dave was very patient and answered all of my questions about the bikes I was looking at and biking in Durham in general. He did the opposite of up-sell me, advising that I hold off on buying accessories until I rode and decided I needed them. A few days after buying the bike I got a puncture flat (obviously not their fault). I took the bike to the shop and Dave spent the time to explain how to change the tire, common mistakes etc. The shop also offers 2 free checks/tune-ups in the first year after buying a bike from them which made buying my first bike less stressful. I would definitely recommend this shop to anyone.
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Justin Shillock
Experienced, knowledgable, and helpful staff. I cant compare bike shops because I have little experience, but Durham Cycles served my needs. I worked with Phil and he explained everything down to the basics. They all seem knowledgable about it all and seem to really care both about the bikes and the riders more than just trying to get a sale. They allowed me to test drive multiple bikes without pressure and when I was done Phil even helped me load it into my small car. I plan to return for accessories and any needed service. If I had to come up with a downside, its that its a small shop. Not a ton of space inside and you may frequently have to get out of the way of others. But thats so minor that it doesnt bring my review down from five stars.