The bike industry continues its tremendous rise, but has to deal with production and delivery delays that unfortunately leave some riders without a frame as the season begins.
The closures of factories and ports in Asia, which result from the “zero COVID” strategy, create delays in the manufacture and transport of certain components of the bicycles, then make the dates of deliveries and the contents of these unpredictable . “We must not think that, because COVID seems to be over here, it is over everywhere in the world”, explains Philippe Desgagnés, owner of Mathieu Performance, who foresees a still complicated 2023 season.
Although the shops have bikes in stock, some more popular categories (mid-range and early high-end) are experiencing supply difficulties, “because it is impossible to assemble a bike without being dependent on Asia” , notes Mr. Desgagnés. That’s why some cyclists are still waiting for their bike to be delivered and others are having trouble finding the one they’re looking for.
IN SUCH A CONTEXT, HERE ARE SOME ADVICE:
1. Wait before selling
It is not recommended to sell your old bike before receiving the new one, since the expected delivery date might be delayed.
2. Fix your old bike
“Could the bike left in the garage for a few years have a second life”, suggests Jacques Sennéchael, editor-in-chief of the magazine Bike Mag of Vélo Quebec. By changing a few parts and giving it good maintenance, for example.
3. Search and order
To find the bike that will make us pedal, “you have to go to your usual shop, but also to the neighboring shop, then make phone calls around and even quite a distance”, explains Mr. Sennéchael. And if it’s not there, don’t hesitate to order it. Alex Laporte, owner of Echo Sports, advises to “reserve your price right away”, as he foresees an increase in 2023, in particular due to the rising cost of lithium which will affect the price of electric bikes.
4. Avoid Compromise
“It is not because there is a shortage that you have to buy just anything,” says Mr. Sennéchael. You don’t have to compromise on size, ergonomics, quality of components, type of bike, etc.
5. Remainder and contact
There is no point in swearing at the employees of his bike shop, they are not responsible for the problems that slow down the supply chain. The best solution is to stay in touch with your merchant, by phone or email, suggests Mr. Laporte, to be kept up to date with the latest information regarding delivery.
6. Used or rented bicycles
To all cyclists who turn to second-hand bicycle sales sites, Mr. Sennéchael advises to be careful, since in this period of shortage some sellers are tempted to raise their prices. When the desire to pedal gives ants in the legs, it is always possible to rent a bicycle.
