Here’s how to buy a bike in Pittsburgh

Since the start of COVID-19 bike, sales have gone through the roof. Everyone is looking for ways to safely and affordably get around and have some fun. Due to this, it’s currently a little difficult to purchase new bikes. Here are our recommendations for purchasing a bike.

First, know what you need

Ask yourself, where will you ride? What riding position is most comfortable for you? Will you carry a lot on your bike?

Check out “Finding the Right Bike for You” to learn more about different bike style and fitting.

Where to buy a bike

Local Bike Shops

Price: $$$     Ready-to-ride/quality: ★★★★★    

Here is our full list of recommended local bike shops. Pittsburgh has everything from your Kindred Cycles and Iron City Bikes to an e-bike shop like Adams Solar or stores that double as a community work shop like FreeRide or Kraynick’s. Every store is different and has a different selection of bikes. See our full list here

Free Ride Pittsburgh

Price: $     Ready-to-ride/quality: ★☆☆☆☆    

Free Ride isn’t like other bike shops. They’re a bicycle educational facility operated by the community of people who use it. Which means, you can donate bikes, purchase used bikes, and learn to fix it up, all in one place.

Online Markets

Price: $     Ready-to-ride/quality: ★★☆☆☆    

Places like Facebook Marketplace and Craisglist are great for finding used bikes at a decent price. This route requires more research up-front so you know what kind of bike to look for, what size you need, and what work the bike might need. However, be careful of scams.

Online Direct from Manufacturers

Price: $$$     Ready-to-ride/quality: ★★★★☆   

 If you know exactly what bike you want – you can buy directly from the manufacturer. Your bike will be shipped to you and you may need to assemble it at home or bring it to your favorite bike shop to put together for you.

Bike Match Network

Price: FREE     Ready-to-ride/quality: ★★★☆☆    

During COVID-19 crisis BikePGH partnered with the Bike Match Network to get bikes in the hands of essential workers who needed affordable and safe transit. Through this network, you can now apply to get a free bike donated by another local Pittsburgher. Apply here or donate a bike to the program.

Note about Department Stores

Price: $$     Ready-to-ride/quality: ★★★☆☆    

Departments stores have a stigma about them in the cycling community, especially amongst mechanics. While they do offer a wide and regularly available variety of bikes, they come with the risk of having mechanical issues due to the use of cheaper parts. For this reason, department stores may be an affordable option for kids’ bikes or bikes you’re not using for daily commutes or intense riding.

Share these tips with a friend

Know a friend looking for a bike? Looking for a new riding buddy? Share these tips with your friends to people cycling in Pittsburgh.