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| - I purchased a $600 bike from Performance Bicycles 8 months ago. While riding on my daily commute, a part broke off mid-stride. I took the bike into the store thinking about how lucky I was to have signed up for the bike membership that offers additional support and tuneups Surely this broken piece would be covered!
When I took the bike in, not only was the staff dismissive, but they were very condescending saying that "this can happen if you drop the bike a lot. Did you drop the bike a lot?" After explaining that I never place the bike on it's side, have never been in an accident, and that this happened while riding, they said they were unable to help as they did not have the part in stock. I asked if this would be covered by my warranty, they said they had no idea.
I took my bike home and immediately contacted PB online. They said this is not covered. I asked if they stand behind the bikes they sell, and they said yes, but this is considered wear and tear. 8 months of regular wear and tear can completely destroy a bike? I think I've been swindled.
I would avoid this place like the plague. Sure, you can get a good deal on the initial cost of the bike, but you might as well be buying it from Craigslist for the amount of support and warranty you get. I would recommend shopping locally from a bike shop that cares about what it sells and will make the effort to help customers.
Edit:
PB called me a few days after leaving this review. The manager was super accommodating and worked with Diamondback to get a replacement part. He even fixed the bike with a spare part without charging me anything. In the end, PB fixed the problem, but it's unfortunate that it was such a hassle to get there.
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