Key Takeaways:
- The best time to buy bikes is typically during autumn and winter (September–February) when off-season discounts hit 15–30 %.
- End-of-financial-year sales (June–July) also offer solid markdowns on new and high-end models.
- Holiday promotions (Black Friday, Christmas) and demo-bike clearances can unlock extra savings and bundle deals.
The best time to buy bikes is often when demand dips—so think crisp autumn days and cozy winter months!
You’re probably thinking, “right before summer!” Well, think again!
There are several times during the year when you can score some great deals on bikes. So, if you’re in the market for a new set of wheels, read on to learn more about when and where to buy it!
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Early Fall Sales
Just like with most outdoor gear, bike retailers start clearance sales in early fall to make room for new inventory. You can find some great deals on last year’s models!
In October, many shops slashed mountain-bike prices by up to 25 % to make way for the next year models.
So your best bet if you want to buy a new bike, is during fall sales. However, keep in mind that the best selection will be towards the end of the fall season.
Spring Sales
There are also some great deals to be had in the spring! As the weather starts to warm up, retailers will again start clearance sales in order to get rid of winter inventory.
Did you know? March–June are peak adult-bike sales, so shopping just outside this window can net better discounts.
This is a great time to buy if you’re looking for a deal on a new bike but don’t want to wait until fall.
Summer Sales
Although you might think that summer is the best time to buy a bike, it’s not! Since this is the peak season for biking, most retailers don’t offer significant discounts.
However, you can still find good deals if you know where to look. Check out online retailers or department stores for the best summer deals.
Year-End Sales
Another best time to buy a bike is at the end of the year! This is when most retailers offer their biggest discounts to get rid of old inventory.
So if you’re looking for a great deal on a new bike, keep your eyes peeled for year-end sales. You’re sure to find something that’s just right for you!
The best time to buy a bike depends on what you’re looking for. If you want the best selection, you’ll want to shop during the fall sales.
Retailers often clear stock at fiscal-year’s end (June–July), offering 10–25 % off new models. You might even score accessory bundles—think helmet + lock—for a single discounted price.
But if you’re looking for the best deals, you’ll want to wait until the end of the year. Either way, there are plenty of great times.
When do bike prices drop?
The best time to buy a bike is often at the end of the year or during the early fall. This is when most retailers are looking to clear out old inventory to make room for new models.
It’s also a time when bike manufacturers are starting to release new models, so you might be able to find some great deals on previous years’ models.
Where to buy a bike on sale?
There are a few different places to buy a bike on sale. You can check online retailers, department stores, or even some bike shops.
1. Local Bike Shops
Local bike shops are a great place to buy a new bike. They often have clearance sales on older models or last year’s models.
Plus, they can help you with assembly and maintenance.
2. Online Retailers
If you’re looking for the best deals, online retailers are often the best place to buy a bike on sale. They have a wider selection and can offer discounts that local shops can’t match.
Just be sure to do your research before purchasing from an online retailer, as there have been some cases of scams.
3. Big Retailers (REI, Walmart)
- Deep discounts during Black Friday and Christmas promotions.
- Limited service; factor in assembly costs.
What is the deal with buying a bike from a big retailer?
The main benefit of buying a bike from a big retailer is the price. You can often find bikes for significantly less than you would at a local bike shop.
However, the downside is that you might not get as much help with assembly and maintenance. Additionally, the selection is often more limited.
So, if you’re looking for the best deal on a new bike, it’s worth checking out big retailers like REI and Walmart. Just be sure to do your research first!
REI and Walmart sales
REI and Walmart both offer great deals on bikes throughout the year. However, their best sales are typically during Black Friday and the end of the year.
How to Save Money When Buying a Bike
Here are a few tips for saving money when buying a bike:
Wait for a sale
One of the best ways to save money on a bike is to wait for a sale. Most retailers have clearance sales at least once a year, so if you’re patient, you can often find a great deal.
Buy a used bike
Another great way to save money is to buy a used bike. You can often find good-quality used bikes at garage sales, thrift stores, or online. Just be sure to have the bike inspected by a professional before buying it.
Look for coupons
Many retailers offer coupons that can save you money on your purchase. So be sure to look for them before you buy!
Ask your local bike shops if they have demo bikes for sale
Demo bikes are used bikes that bike shops use for test rides and events. They are often sold at a discount, so it’s worth asking your local bike shop if they have any for sale.
Check the website of specific bike brands
Some bike brands, such as Specialized and Cannondale, offer discounts on their website. So if you have a specific brand in mind, be sure to check their website for deals.
Buy an older model
If you don’t mind buying an older model, you can often find great deals on last year’s models. This is especially true if you’re willing to buy a used bike.
What should you do after buying a new bike?
After you buy a new bike, the first thing you should do is take it to a local bike shop for a tune-up. This will help ensure that your bike is in good working order and the right size for you.
You should also familiarize yourself with basic bike maintenance, such as cleaning the chain and inflating the tires. This will help you keep your bike in good condition and avoid costly repairs down the road.
You may also buy accessories for your bikes, such as a helmet, lock, and lights.
Finally, be sure to register your bike with your city or town. This will help them return it to you if it’s ever lost or stolen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to build your bike?
It costs more to construct your bike than it does to acquire one that has already been produced by a manufacturer. Building your bike can be cheaper if you know where to find good deals on parts.
However, it’s often better to buy a complete bike from a reputable retailer. They will offer a warranty, and assembly is usually included in the price.
When is the best time to buy a mountain bike?
Summer. The best time to buy a mountain bike is typically late summer or early fall. This is because many retailers offer clearance sales on last year’s models. Additionally, new models are usually released in the spring, so you’ll have a better selection to choose from if you wait until the late summer or early fall.
What time of the year do new bike models come out?
New bike models are typically released in the fall. So this is the best time to buy a new bike if you’re looking for the latest and greatest model.
Where can I get a demo bike for a test ride?
Most bike shops will have demo bikes that you can test ride. However, they may only offer a limited selection of models. If you’re looking to test ride a specific bike, you may want to call ahead to the shop to see if they have it in stock.
How do I know if a used bike I’m buying is stolen?
Check the bike’s serial number. You can usually find the serial number on the bottom of the frame. You can then search Project 529, bikeindex.org (USA), and bikeregister.com (for the UK) to see if the bike has been reported as stolen.
The best way to avoid buying a stolen bike is to buy from a reputable retailer. They will usually have a record of the bike’s serial number.
How much do bike shops mark up on bikes?
The high margin is 40-45 percent (66-80% markup), whereas the low end is about 20 percent margin (25% markup). This is why it pays to shop around!
Final Thoughts: Best Time to Buy Bikes
The best time to buy a bike depends on what you’re looking for. If you want the best selection, you’ll want to shop during early fall. However, you can often find great deals on last year’s models if you want to buy a used bike.
Additionally, many bike shops offer clearance sales on last year’s models in the late summer or early fall.
