07/11/2026
I ran across this post we did from 3 years ago - and it's as true now as it was then. And probably even more true since more shops charge you an "assembly fee". Go ahead and shop the others first, but if you see junk fees, just know you won't pay that with us.
Okay, I'm just going to say it: I hate bicycle shops.
I always have. Even as a kid going in a bike shop meant being mostly ignored and made to feel like I was doing them a favor by spending my money there.
I know, not all shops are bad - but there are stereotypes about bike shops for a reason.
Which brings us to the newest trend in bicycle shops alienating customers: hidden fees/charges.
A customer recently brought in a bike they originally bought in Florida. It was a repair covered under warranty so we asked to see the original receipt to verify when it was purchased. We noticed on the receipt that the shop she bought it at charged the regular MSRP on the bike... and then added on a $100 "assembly and fit" fee.
Do what?
Do they normally just hand their customer their bike still in the shipping box? Most dealer agreements require a dealer to only sell bicycles fully assembled. Profit margins are based on the need for this assembly. And fit? We're not talking about a detailed ergonomic fit for a high dollar bike. We're talking about a casual use ebike. At that level, fitment has two elements: 1) Asking the customer "How does it feel?" and making adjustments accordingly and 2) How does it look while the customer is riding? (body position, leg extension, etc.) Literally just looking at the customer while they do a test ride will determine correct fitment in most cases.
So I do feel justified in hating bicycle shops. It's like they go out of their way to make customers feel not valued and foolish. It's like bike shops are in a competition with car dealerships on how to make customers have the most miserable experience possible (well, unless you're buying a $10,000 bike... then they're happy to see you).
Rest assured, Cartersville Bicycle Service & Supply is a no-shenanigans zone. Prices are clearly marked. The only thing added is Bartow County sales tax. Not only is professional assembly included in the purchase price, but also LIFETIME ADJUSTMENTS (to the original purchaser).
And apparently we're not dumb for doing business differently from most shops... since we're still here 4 years later and have tripled the size of our store.
So, if bicycle shops also grind your gears... give Cartersville Bicycle Service & Supply a try. We really are different.
