Bikes Direct has made a name for itself by selling affordable, value-oriented bikes directly to consumers online.
But what are the alternatives if you’re looking for similar budget-friendly websites?
In this article, I’ll highlight some of the best Bikes Direct alternatives and breakdown their buying process, shipping policies, prices and what sets them apart from Bikes Direct.
Like Bikes Direct, some of these alternatives let you order right from their website and ship a bike right to your door and they offer deep discounts.
#1 Bikeisland
Bikeisland is an online bike store based out of Southern California. They are our #1 recommended Bike Direct alternative.
This is pretty much the only other shop that can match Bike Direct prices.
They even have a really old looking website just like Bikes Direct!
In terms of customer service, Bikeisland has received mostly positive reviews. They also offer fast shipping and are responsive to customer inquiries.
However, they don’t have a large selection of bikes unfortunately.
If you’re looking for a specific bike part or accessory, Bikeisland offers them too.
#2 Performance Bike
Performance Bike is a well-established brand that has been around for over 30 years.
They are also one of the largest online bike retailers, with over 100 brick-and-mortar stores across the country.
Also Read: What happened to Nashbar and Performance bikes
These guys provide an unmatched selection of road, mountain, fitness, comfort, kids and electric bikes. They even have top brands like Cannondale, Specialized, GT, and their own Scattante bikes.
They don’t have deep discounts like they used to back in the days, but they do run frequent sales both online and in stores.
You can often find deals on quality bikes well below retail price on these days.
Plus, Performance Bike offers free shipping on orders over $49!
#3 Ebay
Ebay is hit-or-miss for buying bikes online, but with some digging you can find excellent deals on new and used bikes.
Plus, eBay offers buyer protection, which means that you can shop with confidence knowing that you’re protected if something goes wrong with your purchase.
Browse specifically for cyclocross, road, mountain, and other specialty bikes from brands like Specialized, Trek, and Cannondale.
And make sure to read seller reviews carefully and only buy from sellers with excellent ratings. You can also contact them with any questions before bidding or buying.
Also Read: Is Planet Cyclery Legit?
Quick Tip: Pay close attention to sizing charts and bike condition.
Ebay can be a great place to score a high-end bike for hundreds below retail.
#4 Craigslist
Craigslist can be a treasure trove for finding discounted used bikes locally.
On the site, you can search your area for all kinds of bikes. Plus, you can post wanted ads describing the type of bike you want!
But be prepared to move quickly on good deals, because they sell fast.
Before you visit the seller, ask about maintenance, damage, repairs needed, and reason for selling.
Also make sure to thoroughly inspect any bike before purchasing. If you don’t know how, bring someone knowledgeable about bikes if possible.
Overall, Craigslist is a great alternative to Bikes Direct if you are looking for a used bike.
#5 Airborne Bicycles
Airborne Bicycles is an online retailer that offers high-performance road, cyclocross, mountain, and hybrid bikes direct-to-consumer for lower prices.
They sell quality aluminum and carbon fiber models equipped with components from Shimano, SRAM, and others.
However, they are not as cheap as Bikes Direct.
On the plus side, Airborne offers free shipping and 30-day test rides on all bikes, so you can try before you fully commit.
And they also have a solid reputation for providing excellent support to their customers.
Also Read: Is BikesDirect Legit?
One of the standout bikes of Airborne Bicycles is its Plague 27.5 full-suspension mountain bike. This bike boasts a lightweight aluminum frame, a RockShox suspension system, and a Shimano drivetrain.
It also comes in at a price point that is hard to beat, making it an excellent value for those looking for a full-suspension mountain bike.
Overall, Airborne bikes are designed for more advanced cyclists, but lower prices make them accessible for new enthusiasts too.
Other Alternatives
Here are some alternatives to Bikes Direct:
- Nashbar: Offers a wide range of bikes and accessories at competitive prices.
- Chain Reaction Cycles: A UK-based retailer with a large selection of bikes and gear.
- Jenson USA: Specializes in mountain bikes and offers a price match guarantee.
- Competitive Cyclist: Offers high-end bikes and gear for serious cyclists.
Bottom Line
Overall, Bikeisland is the best alternative to Bikes Direct if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for your cycling needs.
Their inventory may not be as extensive as some other retailers, but they offer quality products at affordable prices with excellent customer service.
FAQs
Is It Safe To Buy A Bike From An Online Retailer?
Yes, it is generally safe to buy a bike from an online retailer. However, it’s important to do your research and choose a reputable retailer with a good reputation for customer service. You should also make sure to carefully read the product description and check the sizing chart.
Are There Any Reliable Online Bike Retailers Besides Bikes Direct?
Yes, there are several reliable online bike retailers besides Bikes Direct. Some of the most popular options include Chain Reaction Cycles, REI, Jenson USA, Competitive Cyclist, and Merlin Cycles.
