| Is it possible to buy a quality bike for all terrains without | | | | 3. Do your homework: |
| spending a small fortune? In short, the answer is yes. | | | | Learn the basics about mountain bikes so you know |
| By following some basic tips you can find the right bike | | | | what to look for and do your homework about online |
| at the right price. Here's some advice to help you | | | | retailers. Which websites offer the best customer |
| accomplish your mission: | | | | service and the most informative product pages? |
| 1. Keep an eye out for promotions and coupons codes: | | | | Which websites offer the best deals on delivery? |
| Many online retailers offer voucher codes or discount | | | | Some research at this stage will pay dividends later. |
| offers which can help you to save a significant amount | | | | 4. Do a needs analysis: |
| of money on your bike. Companies periodically offer | | | | When shopping for an inexpensive mountain bike, a |
| promotions or run money off deals, so look out for | | | | needs analysis will help you to determine what you |
| these. Most online retailers send out e-newsletters | | | | need - and what you don't. Are you interested in |
| each week or fortnight so it's worth signing up to these | | | | titanium or a less expensive metal? Do you want front |
| so you are among the first to hear about special | | | | or rear suspension? How often do you plan to ride the |
| offers. | | | | mountain bike and how far? How long do you want |
| 2. Seek personal referrals and read customer reviews: | | | | the bike to last? These are all crucial questions to ask |
| Some of the best advice you can get is from friends, | | | | to determine what you're looking for. |
| relatives and colleagues. It is highly likely that someone | | | | 5. Avoid expensive extras: |
| you know has bought a bike. And while there are | | | | When shopping for a bike, it can be tempting to be |
| exceptions to every rule, 99 per cent of the time these | | | | drawn in to buying lots of accessories too. Although |
| people will give you sound advice. Some online bike | | | | top-end accessories might look great, will you really |
| shops also have customer reviews on their sites with | | | | need them? There are almost always entry level |
| ratings given for value and performance so you'll be | | | | alternatives which offer great value and performance. |
| able to get a good idea of what other people think of | | | | Be disciplined, stick to your budget and look at bikes |
| the bike before you buy it. | | | | and gear which fit your price bracket. |