Before buying a car, you drive it off the lot to see how it handles the streets. You’re making a big purchase, so it only makes sense to get the full experience. The same idea applies to mountain bikes, which are an equally big purchase. Instead of blindly dropping $10,000 on a new bike, a demo lets you get on the saddle and hit the trails. With this guide, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about demoing a mountain bike in Denver.
Benefits of a Demo
Wheel size, suspension, frame geometry…it can be overwhelming.
You can read every review on a certain bike and know everything about geometry, but there’s no substitute for putting trail under the tires. Demoing a bike is a great resource to help you pick through the details as you move toward a purchase. It’s a low-risk way to see if the bike aligns with your riding style. If it isn’t a fit, you can move on to the next option. When you try before you buy, the decision is driven by practical experience rather than hype, and you avoid the pitfall of buyer’s remorse.
What to Know Before Demoing a Mountain Bike
There are a ton of styles to choose from. Do you need an XL enduro bike or a medium cross-country bike? Knowing your ideal size and category before booking a demo will help you narrow down the options. Here’s a good resource to help you understand which bike best suits your style. Determining the right size usually comes down to height. Use the breakdown below to see where to start:
X-Small: Under 5’2”
Small: 5’2” – 5’6”
Medium: 5’6” – 5’10”
Large: 5’10” – 6’1”
X-Large: 6’1” – 6’4”
XX-Large: over 6’4”
Size and category are two of the most important things to know before demoing a mountain bike, but it’s also important to know the bike shop’s demo policies. You typically have to put down a credit card before leaving with the bike and generally have to return it at a certain time the next day. Looking for a multi-day demo or mountain bike rental in Denver? Not all shops accommodate that but we do at Base Camp. Just let us know when you make the reservation!
How to Demo a Mountain Bike in Denver
Now that you know what size and style you need, all that’s left is to book the demo. Find a local bike shop that offers demos and give them a call to reserve the demo or fill out an online scheduling form. There are never any guarantees, but you will typically be asked which bike you prefer, your size, and the time and date you would like to pick up the bike.
At Base Camp Cyclery, we make demoing a mountain bike in Denver easy. Every member of our staff is a grizzled veteran, and they never miss an opportunity to help other riders find their perfect bike. Whether you’re new to the sport or have decades of experience, our team is ready to set you up.