Buying gear in Italy

[Kevoffthetee]

I'm interested if cycling good are cheaper in Italy since quite a lot of it is made over there. One-off my closest friends has moved to Rome earlier this year and makes 2-3 journeys back to the uk. Am thinking of asking him to bring my new lid back with him

 

[vickster]

Doubtful, sterling not as strong against the Euro and Italy tends to be as expensive if not more so. I guess you could look at some Italian websites or ask your mate to have a look and see how much whatever you wants costs? I expect helmets are likely made in the Far East and not Italy, where they may be designed

Or go visit him for a holiday

 

[Kevoffthetee]

Doubtful, sterling not as strong against the Euro and Italy tends to be as expensive if not more so. I guess you could look at some Italian websites or ask your mate to have a look and see how much whatever you wants costs? I expect helmets are likely made in the Far East and not Italy, where they may be designed

Or go visit him for a holiday

I though that be the case, and looking at a few Italian sites confirms we pay the same but have offers on more often.

Will be hinting at using his place as a base though

 

[vickster]

What helmet do you want? Are you sure it's the right shape for your head and which size is needed. Buying abroad or even online can be risky, especially with a helmet where fit and comfort are crucial. To save a tenner, I'd buy in store, or online when certain on what is needed (and then from someone with free returns, as it costs about £6 in post to return a helmet, been there)

 

[Kevoffthetee]

I've tried the giro synthe which I love but was going to go for the Foray MIPS as funds are limited ATM due to a lot of friends and family events around the country. That and the wife needs a bike and kitting out

 

[vickster]

Do you need a new helmet to replace a knackered one?

Those two look the same to me

 

[Kevoffthetee]

Do you need a new helmet to replace a knackered one?

Those two look the same to me

Not knackered but showing the mileage

 

[Blue Hills]

Italy is uncompetitive in so many ways. And so many bike shops. I know some shops where a fair bit of the stock isn't priced. You are supposedly supposed to have a nice chat about last night's football before broaching the delicate subject. A lot of italians buy stuff from foreign web sites. No disrespect to Evans (they can get an unfair press) but no one would say they are bargain central for day to day stuff. Yet i have come across italians who get them to ship stuff. That tells you all you need to know. I swear years ago I saw an 8 speed chain for sale in one small town bike shop for €20 to €30. When the pound was almost on parity. Chain reaction is also widely used. If buying clothing be aware that the sizing can be somewhat curious though you will doubtless discovee that if you try to squeeze into it.

 

[leyton condor]

I regularly spend a bit of time in Italy (just south of Rome)and most cyclists I know use Chain Reaction.
Small independent shops are still the norm there so prices are still high.
If you do find a bargain campag outlet I would be very interested in knowing about it though.