Written by a patron of mike's bicycle shop:
Mike Moyer has been in the bicycle business for about forty years. One thing that you are not going to find anywhere else near Northfield is his expertise and understanding of old and outdated bicycle technology - as well as new bicycle technology.
If you are new to bikes and bike shops you should understand a few key things about how they operate as well as how your own bicycle operates:
1. First come first serve: people who bring their bikes in first get their work done first. Work estimates are clearly stated as estimates for time and materials. Do not be surprised if the cost of a significant mechanical overhaul on your bicycle costs in upwards of $100. Bicycle components are generally considered "expensive" for the average buyer.
2. Bike components are very specific in nature, they take time to order and locate. Most times is the component that needs replacing is of a new enough bicycle, parts and components can take anywhere from 1 day to 4 days to arrive depending on supplier stock and availability for easy to locate components. Longer for older harder to locate components. You pay for what you get replaced, so if a part is estimated at a lower price - and the only one available for you is more expensive, then you pay more.
3.Most mechanics deal with many people a day, and have many repairs on their plate. Dealing with someone (from a mechanic's perspective) who clearly has no idea what their talking about as well as an attitude, is SOP for a bicycle mechanic. They do their best to help you understand the issue at hand as well as choose the best path forward. Be patient and plan ahead if you have to have bikes ready for a trip or event. You make mechanics life's a whole lot easier by being patient and working with them.
4. Don't be a jerk. In any field dealing with mechanics you may wonder why something is expensive. If you feel angry about a repair or estimate issue. Be honest and pose your problem to the owner.
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