Bicycles and bike shops

Finding a bicycle shop should not be a problem in Singapore.

Number of bikeshops: 114
Number of rental shops: 14
Area of mainland Singapore: 692 sq km.
That means that there is around 1 bikeshop for every 6 sq km.

Sources:
http://www.smbf.com.sg/bikeshop.htm, accessed 19 Oct.
http://www.smbf.com.sg/rental.htm, accessed 19 Oct

How to choose a bicycle

If you have already decided that you want to buy a bicycle but have only a hazy clue over brands such as Shimano and Giant, or the best bikeshops, don't worry.

1. Why do you want to go cycling?

Are you thrilled by the prospect of going on mountain bike trails and the forested areas of Singapore? Or do you prefer a road riding, which emphasizes fitness over riding skill?

There are two main classes of bicycles: mountain bikes (MTB), road bikes. Mountain bikes are generally cheaper than road bikes, but are slower and less aerodynamic. A beginner who just wants a leisurely ride should generally buy an low to mid end MTB, budget not over $600.

However, there may be certain cases where buying a roadbike is advisable, such as if you are intending to join a group that is dominated by road bikes. In this case, prepare a budget of at least $1500, though I wouldn't recommend splurging over $3000 on your first bike.

Other types of bicycles, such as downhill and touring bikes, are sometimes sold but are not popular. Don't be conned into buying them if you are just a first time cyclist.

2. What is your budget?

The rule of thumb is to start off with a low to mid end bike, depending on how much you can spare.

Low end MTB: $150 to $300
Mid range MTB: $250 to $600
Low end roadbike: $1000 to $2000
Mid range roadbike: $1800 to $3000

Don't forget to leave around $100 to $200 for accessories such as pumps, spare tubes, helmets, bottle cages, cycling shoes, cycling tights, jerseys, and most importantly, lights.

3. Which bikeshop do you want to go to?

Although bikeshops are very common, they are certainly also very different from each other. .

When you ask around for a bikeshop, its best not to ask for a general recommendation, but with your needs in mind. Different bikeshops cater to different cliente. A shop that has an impressive range of roadbikes often is far less impressive in the mountain bike section (though not always; there are a few "all rounder" shops). A few otherwise "normal" shops may distinguish themselves by specializing in certain brand names. If you are attracted to a particular brand, try to find out if there is a preferred / sole distributor within Singapore. Also, which is more important to you, budget or sales service? Better sales service usually comes at the expense of a higher profit margin (though once again, not always).

But no matter what the recommendations from online forums or your friends say, choose a bikeshop that you are comfortable with. Don't worry about being disappointed with a bikeshop that everyone seems to like. The "bike search" is all about finding the shop that you like.

4. Choose your bicycle

Do take into account the recommendations of the bikeshop owner, but walk away if you sense any hardsell tactics. Conversely, don't pressure your way into getting a low price.

Take your bike for a test ride before making the final decision. Ensure its geometry fits you, especially for roadbikes where a good fit is crucial. If you are unsure, you can always come back another day. Ask your friends or online forums for their opinions too.

5. Start riding.

Enjoy! If you have done your homework carefully, you should be happy with your new bicycle.

6. Forge relationships

Assuming you get good after sales service from the bikeshop, consider making it your local bikeshop (LBS). Most LBS give good discounts to their regular customers. At the same time, don't feel obliged to patronize that shop only. Very good shops will even recommend that you go to another shop for a brand or item which they feel the other shop can bring in more cheaply.

Besides the bikeshop, do find some good riding kakis and some groups. Riding alone can be a rewarding experience, especially when you need to destress and want to determine the pace of the ride, but there is strength in numbers.