Evans cycles Gateshead Metro shopping centre

[Cush]

Today it was forecast for rain, so I decided I would kill two birds with one stone by going in to a major shopping area. Something I hate doing. I caught the bus to Newcastle (pensioner bus pass, so travel cost nothing) did some research, found what I wanted (old photos of the family estate before the bulldozers moved in) did what I had to and then headed for Evans cycles in Gateshead. I had a shopping list with me and was prepared to spend about a £100. I need a really large size in gloves and wanted to try on a few pairs to make sure I get the right size, I am interested in an emergency tyre repair package i.e wedge saddle bag that will hold small air pump, tyre levers etc as a package and several other items i.e chain cleaner, new saddle etc. I found Evans shop, there were plenty of bikes on show but I was not impressed by the selecton of accesssorys, could not see see what I wanted, walked round the shop twice before I approached a member of staff, asked about glove size's etc . He was probably a bright enough lad but his off hand manner and lack of communication skills, along with a poor choice of goods on display (there was some expencive bits of clothing on show) meant that I walked out with out splashing the credit card, it also means I will avoid their mail order department. I think I can get better from my LBS at least they will serve me and will know their product.
PS I only went to Evans because I thought I would see a wide range of kit.

 

[iAmiAdam]

You usually do have good service and a wide range of stuff, but it's the end of the end of season sale and it's that awkward period where staff are leaving for uni etc.

 

[Mark_Robson]

I use that shop a lot and I have always found the staff to be very helpfull, maybe the guy was having an off day? Not an axcuse I know.

Aldi will be doing their winter range of cycling gear next Thursday so you might want to check that out.

 

[LizardEye]

I must admit I've never liked this shop. I was in there a few weeks ago, picked up a hand full of stuff an joined the six people queuing. Ten minutes later I was still there. One assistant was struggling to work the till, while another chatted to a group of charvas about bmx wheels. So I put the stuff down and walked out, followed by three other people.

Mind you EBC in Byker arent much better. You wouldn't think they all owned shares in the shop.

 

[Cush]

Wemt down to the local Bike Hut today and got two of the things on my list. At least this supports a local shop, evan if it is part of a big chain.