The *only* reason I knock this place down a star is because I'm autistic and Derby is overwhelming. So many bikes, parts, and people! You have to side-slip past each other, no matter where you are in the shop. I couldn't get out of there fast enough. They could easily use a new location that's 3x the size of their current location and still feel full.
That aside, it's clearly a traditional bike shop in every sense of the word. You're not going to find big box bikes here. That translates into - your are not going to find big box prices either. If you want a Walmart bike that looks the part, and behaves like a casual bike for getting around the neighborhood, and perhaps hit a few groomed paths, go to Walmart. There is nothing wrong with playing to your needs. As long as you're happy. I would recommend a big box bike roughly 60% of the time when being realistic. You're not settling or compromising. You are doing something you enjoy. If you feel like you need to step up later, you will have a better idea of what you need/what.
At Derby, you'll find bikes that can handle some more intense riding. If you're going for longer rides, a hybrid road/trail bike may be just what you need. The higher air pressure in the narrower tires can add miles to your ride. Derby has these. They can get a bit pricey, but any purpose built bike can.
For mountain bikes, they have everything. But I'm talking mid to high range. Both in quality & price. Again, if you don't plan on beating your bike up much, you may be better of going to REI. If you want to bomb down the side of a mountain and live, it's best to get a bike that will not tear it's gears apart or toss a bag full of break failure in your lap as you approach a trail merge.
One thing you have to expect is that these bikes are not cash and carry. You will spend money on maintaining them! Being able to crash through a rock garden can bend rims, break hangers, etc. The more complex the machine, the more parts you have to pay attention too. Mid to high bikes are lightweight, nimble, aggressive, and often instill a bit of over confidence. They are also easy to customize for the season or anticipated conditions. Knowing that you can hit the bike park or a downhill with a bike that can handle it is awesome. You don't want a bike that adds to the challenge. You want a bike that rises to the occasion and adds to the fun. These are the kinds of bikes you'll find at Derby.
I can't say much for road bikes. I love my Cannondale and tolerate my Trek. Both are older models. Suffice it to say, I understand road bikes, they are just not my thing. I'm sure Derby has them covered.
Electric bikes... they are there. I still see them as a novelty that the laws have not caught up to.
As far as parts go, they are pretty well stocked for almost any occasion. I can find everything for my Jammis. But my odd ball Iron Horse sends me to Amazon.
Overall, my experience has been pretty good. When you walk in, it feels like a salesperson is assigned to you. Whether to help you out or to make sure you're not stealing stuff, I don't know. It adds to the claustrophobia. I've never purchased a complete bike from them. But I have purchased a fair number of parts.
The service shop is knowledgeable. They have never blown me off even when I tell them that I'm trying to find parts for my odd ball. They accommodate me when possible & give me alternate suggestions when my needs can't be met.
The sales staff has been solid when browsing. They have contradicted each other just enough to let me know they have opinions. This is a good thing as it reflects experience. Nothing serious. Big Box employees tend to learn from each other where bike shop employees learn by doing. Don't expect canned responses. Every bike shop employee should have an answer to "what is your shittiest bike". If they say all of their bikes are awesome, find a different sales person!
Ok, that's enough. I had/have a lot to say when it comes to bike shops as I managed a bike & ski (snowboards, skateboards, rollerblades, etc...) shop for several years back in Idaho. 70% of my adult life has been spent in retail. All in small business. I'd like to say that I know what to look for. But this is just 1 review. The more you plan on spending, the more reviews you should read.
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