Excellent service from Jardine Cycles
A new bicycle at last! After visiting 7 shops, I went to Jardine Cycles in Coventry (recommended by two experienced riders) - they actually seem to respect their customers. They have a smaller range than most other shops. But that is symptomatic of a good shop - they've chosen to stock the right bikes. They have genuine expertise and experience with the kinds of bikes that most people want to buy - including commuters (ignored by other local shops). And so, unlike Mike's Bikes (poor), the Coventry Cycle Centre (very poor), Broadribbs (dreadful), John Atkins (insulting), they actually listened to what I wanted and suggested the perfect bike: a Ridgeback Voyage with tall touring bars to replace the standard drop bars. The Cycle Scheme voucher took a week to arrive, and I collected the bike a few days later - all configured as requested.
Here's the message for bike shops facing recession: they took their time, listened to the customer, and got the deal - plus I spent an extra £200 on lights, a lock and a tag-along for Lawrence.
I'll give them a 5* rating.
And the bike - I rode back to Kenilworth and found it to be really good...
Click to enlarge
4 comments by 3 or more people
Steven Carpenter
What’s it like on the trails?
11 Dec 2008, 12:56
Robert O'Toole
I can barely get my feet on the floor. Although that’s never been a problem when riding a 280 kg motorcycle off road.
11 Dec 2008, 13:14
Robert O'Toole
The pedals would be more of a worry – they have straps across them – so far I’ve only once forgotten to take my feet out when stopping.
11 Dec 2008, 13:15
Steve Rumsby
Then the saddle is just a bit too low, then:-)
11 Dec 2008, 14:10
Add a comment
You are not allowed to comment on this entry as it has restricted commenting permissions.