December 11, 2008

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...

Ridgeback Voyage

Click to enlarge

Touring bars


- 4 comments by 3 or more people Not publicly viewable

  1. Steven Carpenter

    What’s it like on the trails?

    11 Dec 2008, 12:56

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. Steve Rumsby

    I can barely get my feet on the floor.

    Then the saddle is just a bit too low, then:-)

    11 Dec 2008, 14:10


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