I need help finding a good local bike shop in Norfolk

[Two-Stroke Tart]

Pretty much as the title says really! I've got a Specialized Alez and I don't overly trust the shop I bought it from, so want somewhere else to go for further advice. There is nothing wrong with the bike, but after a lot of problems from pain and with some help from a triathlon forum it would appear that my bike wasn't remotely set up properly so I'm not too inclined to go back to where I bought it from. The problem is, as a newbie, I have no idea who I can trust so I am looking for some recommendations on places in Norfolk. I live in Attleborough, so Norwich, Diss, Thetford or Dereham kind of areas are good for me to get to. I should add that I don't drive and have to rely on the long suffering Mr TST to drive me to a bike shop so I don't want to be going to one miles and miles away unless there really isn't one anyone can recommend near me.

I need some help fairly quickly with chaning the gear bits on my bike as currently I can't get up the hills on the bike course of the triathlon I'm doing in September and I gather I may need to either change the cassette or the chainrings. The course includes the Rutland Ripple, which I had to stop on twice on the biggest hill yesterday, and I didn't fair too well on the rest of the hills on the course either so it's a problem that needs sorting!

I just want to be able to take the bike into someone who can give me some good advice about what to change and for me to know that they know what they're talking about, and I'm not going to get shafted for loads of money I don't need to spend or get bad advice.

 

[Will1985]

Advice is what these fora are for To be honest I wouldn't really go to any of the local shops for post-purchase advice, but if I had to suggest one it would be Madgetts in Diss - they will provide the most personal service.

What is the current gearing on the bike?

Norfolk isn't exactly the best place to train for events elsewhere, but in fact some of the best lumpy roads to train on are within the triangle marked by Wymondham-Norwich-Dereham.

 

[wheres_my_beard]

I have seen people getting very competent help with people setting up bikes at Pedal Revolutions in Norwich (although they are not overly forward in engaging with shoppers); also Borwell Cycles in norwich are good, and aimed at the more serious cycylist, so could be worth a look.

I'm not sure if this really helps...but I think any one of the bike shops in Norwich, apart from maybe Velo Cycles, in Norwich can probably help you, as they all seem well staffed and capable.

 

[discplayer]

I agree about Borwell and Pedal Revolution.

There's also Street Life on West End St (by the Fat Cat pub), and if I remember correctly, like Borwell they are Specialized dealers.

 

[Two-Stroke Tart]

Ah, Madgetts in Diss was one of the shops I called yesterday. The chap seemed very friendly, helpfull and knowledgeable, but as I know sweet FA most people seem knowledgeable to me

Will - the current gearing on the bike is what it came with, which is a standard double? It's the blokes version of the bike with a ladies saddle fitted, and apparently that could be why I can't get up hills as I'm a very novice lady and therefore the gears are too hard for me I have found some 'hilly' bits going out of Wymondham heading out to the Watton road and then following that along to Watton, but I shall have to see what else is within that bit. Trying to replicate a hill that rises 100ft in just under a mile is proving difficult round here!

 

[wheres_my_beard]

I agree about Borwell and Pedal Revolution.

There's also Street Life on West End St (by the Fat Cat pub), and if I remember correctly, like Borwell they are Specialized dealers.

Street Life are quite good too; friendly and helpful.

 

[carlton88]

Another recommendation for John Borwell Cycles, been using them for years.

 

[xpc316e]

Madgetts of Diss is cycle heaven. They know their stuff and really value everyone who walks through the door.