Conte's Bicycle & Fitness

 

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Annie W.

Arlington, VA

I knew what kind of riding I wanted to do but I really didn't know much about bikes in general. The sales staff at this place was super helpful, patient and informative. I had a lot of questions and they explained everything, let me ride half a dozen bikes and they just had great attitudes. It can be intimidating to go into these speciality stores when you know nothing about bikes but these guys were great.
I walked away with an awesome Specialized Tricross sport that I am super excited to ride. Mike helped me buy the bike and Alex (girl) did my fitting and she did a great job. I would recommend them for any first time buyer or seasoned rider. They are also expanding their store and the Potomac Running store will be sharing their space so they will be able to serve all your Tri needs.

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Elite '08

17

52

Chris M.

Alexandria, VA

I paid a visit to Conte's on a recent bicycle researching expedition, and here's what I found:

Upon entering, I circled the store to get a sense of the merchandise.  No one said a word to me - no problem, I was still just looking around.  Afterward, I went to the front counter.  There were a couple customers paying for their items, and about 2 staffers chatting but not helping customers.  I used my best, 'hi, I want to spend money' expression.  Still nothing.  There were a few glances at me, but no one paid any attention or asked if I needed service.  So I stood.  For 10 minutes I stood, and maintained my expectant expression.  Eventually, one of the staffers asked the woman behind me if she needed help, and she explained that I was in front of her and should be served first.  Whoops!  Not a good first impression, for me.  To be fair, the staff might have just had an 'off day' and might normally be more attentive...who knows.

So the staff member that showed me the bikes was okay, seemed very knowledgeable and answered all my annoying questions.  He appeared as though he might have been working on getting over a hangover - no big deal - many of us have been there at sometime in our lives.  Overall, he was alright.

I ended up not making my purchase at Conte's.  I didn't think that their recommendations (the most expensive for the class of bike I was looking for $1500) were appropriate for someone who hadn't owned a bike in years.  That's major cash, and I tried to explain that budget was a concern.

3 stars - knowledgeable staff, good merchandise and a nice location.  I subtracted 2 stars for attempting to steer me to higher priced merchandise and the unenthusiastic service.  If you're researching a bike purchase, I'd recommend you stop in and take a look around.  Just research your prices and check out a few other reputable bike dealers before you make your purchase here.

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John R.

Centreville, VA

This bike shop is great if you are into higher end mountain (or road) bikes.  They carry Specialized bikes, which is my favorite "budget gourmet" mountain bike; the base models are really a value for the price, like the Stumpjumper.  They also have other brands.

The staff is knowledgeable and helpful.  The have a pretty nice inventory of parts, clothing and accessories, and can find you what you need.  I purchased the newest Specialized saddle, used it one time and it was damaged due to the bolt on top of my Specialized seat post.  They graciously accepted it back, and helped my find another saddle option without any pressure.

I always enjoy my visits to this shop, even it is just browsing to see the latest bikes and accessories.

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Kim L.

Alexandria, VA

I knew what type of bike I wanted to purchase based on lengthy discussions with some subject area experts in my office.  The question was where to purchase?  After searching in vain at a number of bike shops that either didn't carry the bike or didn't have one in my size to try out, I ended up at Conte's.  I rode around for a while on the one which was close to the size I needed and had the stem changed after their "expert' watched me ride and decided to make some adjustments.  Fast forward, less than one year later and I have had consistent problems with my arms being hyper extended when I ride (something that could have probably been prevented by a better "fit,") and Conte's will not replace the improperly chosen stem.  I should have known, but they should have known better as they were the self proclaimed experts and I was a novice consumer.  I agree with Chrsi on the poor customer service received from the staff when visiting the store.  I went to drop my bike off for my "free" tune-up and the person behind the counter after taking my name, proceeded to make a phone call to someone else about her bike being available before continuing with my needs.

It had the bike I needed, that is a plus, but their customer service was paltry which has resulted in this low rating.

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Elite '08

50

229

Jeff S.

Washington, DC

I will start by saying that I didn't actually buy anything on my visit to Conte's. However, if I get a new bike, I most likely will.

The store had a huge selection of bikes and accessories for the avid bike rider. They had all types of bikes available and a service shop where you can get work done on your bike.

The reason I am giving the place 5 stars is the service. The girl helped me and answered all my silly bike questions and helped my find the type of bike I was looking for.

If you are in the mood for a bike, make the journey over to Conte's.

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