The Chainlink

Do You Sometimes Need to Order Bike Parts From Overseas?

Brett has been picking up components here and there that he needs but can't find as easily in the U.S. His last order was unexpectedly stuck, waiting for duties. We didn't realize what the limits are for ordering overseas. Luckily, the limit is changing on March 10, 2016 from $200 to $800 per shipment. 

http://reviews.mtbr.com/buying-from-overseas-retailers-about-to-get...

Anyone have similar experiences? We do try to buy as much as we can locally and have some great local bike shops we rely on but sometimes it becomes necessary to get creative when finding replacement parts. 

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Permalink Reply by Josh L. on March 9, 2016 at 9:41pm

I am told this internet thingy has "online stores" which while not "local" are in the good old us of a and can ship you the desired part. :). 

Permalink Reply by Yasmeen on March 9, 2016 at 10:04pm

Yup. This is when you can't find the part online or through your LBS in the U.S. so you have to look elsewhere. 

Permalink Reply by Josh L. on March 9, 2016 at 10:23pm

Interesting. Outside of really obscure parts I would have thought everything is available in the u.s.  all the large gear and brake manufacturers have large distributors herenas u.s. is largest market for bikes.

Permalink Reply by Bill P on March 9, 2016 at 9:46pm

Yes. Most recently, some Michelin tubes ordered just last night.  Once a replacement gear cable for 1960s Raleigh three-speed twist shifter.  It's always been less than the duty-free limit, so very quick and convenient.  Nice to learn of the increased limit.

Permalink Reply by Paul Lazzaro on March 10, 2016 at 6:18am

I've purchased a hard case for my Brompton from a shop in Germany (this was about 40% less expensive than buying from any US dealer).  I've also purchased Schwalbe tubes with Dunlop valves from another German shop (not inexpensive, but not even Schwalbe in the US carries them).  I have also purchased a Tubus rack from a shop in Britain when I couldn't find the one I wanted from a US dealer (it might have been discontinued).  Right now there are some bargains to be had in the EU due to the weak Euro.

But in general, especially for complete bikes or commonly available items like Shimano parts, I'd rather deal with a local shop.

Permalink Reply by David Lieb on March 10, 2016 at 5:50pm

OTOH, as long as you are ordering Japanese parts online, why worry about where the retailer is located? We all know that there are a couple of British sites which sell Shimano parts for less than USiAn vendors pay wholesale. Yes, I patronize my LBS. I would not dream of asking advice from them in order to buy online. Nor would I try on a shoe there in order to order the right size online. I also cheerfully purchase things online which do not benefit from interaction with my LBS. It is not my duty to single-handedly keep my LBS in business; when they provide a useful service, I am only too happy to use it and pay for it. 

Permalink Reply by Yasmeen on March 10, 2016 at 5:57pm

Well put. I feel the same way. I prefer online clothing retailers like Rapha and Twin Six but am loyal to a few of my favorite LBS for bikes, service, wheels, parts, helmets, etc. 

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