While most people are specifically looking for the best deals on imported bicycles, in my opinion, the most difficult aspect of shopping for imported bicycles in Gurgaon is the massive variety of brands, models, and features available. It does not matter if one is just starting out or is a veteran biker; one needs to pick a bike that suits his or her needs. There is a high demand for imported bicycles due to their excellent quality, advanced designs, and latest technology. However, there are certain factors to consider before making the purchase in order to get the best value. Here are six tips to help you through the buying process.
1. Research Different Brands
Everyone agrees that the manfacturing of an imported bicycle matters a lot. Internationally known bicycle brands like Trek, Cannondale, and Giant are some of the most sought after names in the bicycle industry because of their quality and craftsmanship. Thus, one needs to research the top international bicycle brands beforehand.
- Explore popular international bicycle brands: You should investigate foreign companies because globally respected brands like Trek and Specialized, Cannondale, and Giant are well known in the cycling business. Take time and investigate their offerings because there strengths vary by brand. All these different brands have their unique selling propositions, so you need to identify the one that meets your expectations.
- Read reviews and customer feedback: When you have determined the brands that appeal to you, it is time to determine what the actual users of the products are saying. Feedback from other cyclists on the Internet is very helpful to understand the strengths and weaknesses of each brand. Look out for reviews that track long-term usage, their durability and performance.
- Compare specifications and features: You should not just buy any bike by a well-known name. Evaluate competing brands on frame material, total weight, wheel diameter, type of suspension, and type of gearing. Mountain Bicycles’ features are different from those of a road bike or a hybrid bike, so make sure you get the right one for the style of riding you will be doing.
2. Understand Your Needs
It is important to have a clear understanding of what you require before you go for an imported bicycle. This enables you to narrow the multitude of choices so that you select the bicycle that will match your cycling objectives.
- Identify your riding style: The very first thing to do is understand in which style do you ride. Is it for commuting, racing or simply riding around the city? Features of bicycles differ and correspond to styles of riding which include cycling for commuting, forward cycling and racing. For example, a racing bike is meant for speed and is, therefore, very light in weight. A mountain bike, on the other hand, is heavy and is designed to take on rough terrains and bumpy trails.
- Consider terrain type: The second thing one should consider is the type of terrain on which the biking will take place. Am I going to be riding on mostly paved roads or trying to grind dirt paths and trails? Mountain Bicycles are meant to be used under these conditions, and most of the time they have enhanced tires, suspension, and a tough frame. Whereas road bikes are perfect for smoother surfaces and distance rides.
- Set a budget: After all the preferences and needs are made known, it is time to create a concrete budget. Whether imported or domestically made, bicycles come from numerous brands and there expectations can range from low to high. By setting a budget, it becomes easier to do a price comparison of the best goods for the price available. Keep in mind, however, that there may be hidden expenses such as customs duties and import taxes that make the bicycle more expensive.
3. Check Import Regulations
Importing bicycles is wrapped with several rules wherever you are buying from, particularly abroad.
- Familiarize yourself with customs duties: Importing bicycles into India will force you to abide by a set of rules that may translate into costs which ultimately determine how much one spends. It would be prudent to investigate the duties which apply to imported bicycles so as to not be taken by surprise. These costs should be included in the pricing prior to purchase.
- Learn about import taxes: In addition to custom duties, one may also need to know about the taxing on the imported-duty paid item. India, like any other country, has a system of taxes which is known as GST, and it covers bicycles too. The tax usually changes with the change in model and brand so ensure to ask for additional charges when getting the bike.
- Ensure compliance with local laws: It is very important to check if the imported bicycles break local laws and policies; safety is the primary concern. Some bicycles may need adjustments to conform to the road safety standards of India. Make sure the bicycle is well within the laws of India, so as to eliminate problems at the point of entry.
4. Visit Local Dealers
It is necessary to deal with a reputed dealer when planning to buy an imported bicycle as it is a huge expenditure. Going to local dealers is a perfect choice because, first, you can examine many different models and eventually use them prior to settling on one.
- Find authorized dealers of imported brands: The best place to purchase your bike is from an authorized dealers that specialize in imported bicycles since they are better than others. They handle original bicycles with the value you need as well as provide warranties and after sales services. There is an assurance that your business with an authorized dealer will yield a genuine product and no fakes or substandard models.
- Inspect different models in person: Although useful, the data collection from the internet cannot replace the examination of a bicycle firsthand. Make a trip to the local dealers of the bicycles and check the various models available. Pay a particular attention to build quality and materials as well as the overall design. Lastly, test the frame and the seat as well as the comfort of handlebars to make sure that it is right for you.
- Ask for test rides: A test ride always gives the best indicator to someone on how comfortable and useable an imported bicycle is and I highly recommend taking one. Take the bicycle out for a test ride and evaluate its performance, check how well it fits you and if you are properly accommodating for it. Eliminate any sort of stress by requesting a test ride before actually investing in one.
5. Look for Warranty and Service
While getting an imported bicycle, warranty and service features must be looked carefully by the seller or the dealer himself.
- Check warranty coverage: This is one of the most important parts when you buy an imported bicycle. Check that the bicycle’s warranty is valid and will take care of flaws in material and work for the bicycle. Go through the documentation and understand what restrictions are placed.
- Inquire about service options and parts availability: Since you are buying an imported bicycle, it is important to find out if there are some service centers in India that can do the repair and maintenance work. The dealer needs to address the service, availability of spare parts for the repairs and the entire procedure for completing the repairs.
- Understand policies for repairs and replacements: Fix any problems with the item incurred in during the transition or shipment. This step provides mitigated risks in case something goes wrong, since the dealer will have the method of replacement.
6. Join Cycling Communities
Participating in the local cycling groups in Gurgaon is very useful considering the vast amount of knowledge about the community as well as recommendations from them.
Connect with local cycling groups: Several groups and communities within Gurgaon organize rides and meetups. This will enable you to meet many people who can provide practical advice, guidance, and recommendations based on their personal experiences with growing imported bicycles.
Seek recommendations from experienced cyclists: Don’t hold back from experienced cyclists. Feel free to collect their expert opinions towards the selected brands, models, or even dealers from their area. This allows the individual to narrow his choices.
Attend cycling events: Different types of bicycles are displayed and used during many cycling events organized in Gurgaon. Attending/Participating in those events will help you meet other riders, allowing you to gather excellent tips and efficient imported bicycles that serves distinct purposes.
