This is new! Since I started my bicycle service shop six years ago in Centralia, Washington, I offered only service, not retail parts sales. Initially, this was because I did my work from the back of a step van, and I could only carry a limited selection of service spares in my van. With my new shop here in Carthage, I don’t have that space limitation.
I was also concerned with parts compatibility issues (customers buying an unsuitable component for their application), and also with installation problems, as an improperly installed part can also fail. When I do the work, I control both of those areas, resulting in excellent customer satisfaction. Since I am going to have retail parts sales, I will publish here our return policies.
Of course, I will accept returns on defective parts. Since I’ve been doing this, I haven’t yet encountered a single defective new part. But, it happens sometimes.
Some parts, such as control cable housing, are cut to length. Once I cut it for you, it is yours. I can’t re-stock it to sell it later.
I will accept returns on unopened and uninstalled parts. Once you install a part though, it isn’t a new part any more, and I can’t sell it as a new part. This policy addresses diagnosis and installation issues. For example, if a replacement rear derailleur doesn’t solve poor shifting because the derailleur hanger isn’t aligned, the control cables are fouled, or the shifter is malfunctioning, you won’t know it until you’ve installed it. Then, that isn’t a new part any more and I won’t accept a return on it. Inner tubes are another example. Simply replacing an inner tube to repair a puncture without diagnosing and correcting the original cause of the puncture will result in a puncture to that new inner tube. Again, once you install it, it’s yours.
I stock service parts to correct most common problems. So, if you need a part, stop by or give me a call to see if I have what you need. If we need to make a special order, I will see what is available from my suppliers. I get my parts from two suppliers: United Bicycle Supply and J&B importers, you can search their sites to see if they carry what you need before we order it. These wholesalers charge shipping, and you can call me for the retail price of the part you need.
I will occasionally have used parts for sale, also. I won’t offer them for sale if they aren’t serviceable. Sales of used parts are final.