Comfort + Bike Fit

Walt's: People come in all sizes and need the expert fit a bike shop can provide. The result: a safe, comfortable ride on the right-sized bike, properly adjusted. Test rides and follow-up fittings available.
Mass Merchant: Mass Merchants have few frame sizes and no experienced staff to make adjustments. They usually don’t offer test rides and don’t do follow-up adjustments. The result: an uncomfortable ride.

Selection

Walt's: At Walt’s, we have a wide selection of models, sizes, styles and colors. Our expert staff coaches you through the process of finding the right bike for you.
Mass Merchant: Selection is usually limited and staff expertise is usually limited or non-existent.

Safety

Walt's: A bike is a vehicle. Ours are assembled in-store by experienced mechanics, then fit to the customer. Test rides, tune-ups and instructions assure a safe ride.
Mass Merchant: Some sell unassembled bikes; few customers are experienced at this. No test rides, tune-ups or safety tests are available. Many buyers eventually bring these bikes to bike shops to be properly assembled or adjusted.

Value After The Sale

Walt's: Our experienced staff welcomes post-sale service and adjustments, usually at low-cost. Our job is to satisfy your needs and help you fully enjoy the ride.
Mass Merchant: After a bike is bought from a mass merchant, you have little or no help after the sale, either if problems occur or if you just want help to enjoy your bicycle more.

Accessories

Walt's: Walt’s offers a wide selection of quality accessories in many colors, sizes, models. Our staff consults you to find the right accessory and helmet.
Mass Merchant: Usually a limited or poor selection of accessories is available, with little or no help to choose the right one. Cheap, knockoff products can create safety issues.

Warranty

Walt's: All bikes have full warranties. Most problems are resolved in-house. We stand behind our bikes with experienced mechanics and riding experts.
Mass Merchant: Usually have manufacturer warranties only, making it impossible or cumbersome to get a bike fixed or adjusted. They may let you return the bike for a refund.

Community

Walt's: We are the central source for more than just great bicycles accessories and apparel. We help you find the great rides, latest info, and often serve as advocates for better bike paths and facilities. We enjoy bikes what they can do for you.
Mass Merchant: They mainly just sell stuff.