Review Date
March 22, 2009

Overall Rating
 3 of 5

Customer Service Rating
 4 of 5

Technical Expertise Rating
 3 of 5

I visit this shop:
Every few months

Reviewed by: averagejoe686 ,  Weekend Warrior

Shop Summary:
REI's house brand, Novara is actually a pretty good brand for the money, especially their commuter style bikes with the internally geared rear hubs. I've heard Novara bikes, like a lot of other big-name brands are actually made by Giant and benefit from all the manufacturing innovations that go into the bigger brands. The other brands that REI carries stink..Marin, K2, blech.

Customer Service:
Knowledge from the sales people can be hit or miss. It's hard to expect someone who sells tents to know anything about bikes. Talk to the full-time techs behind the bike counter if you want to be safe. Fitting has always been a bit of a weakness in a big-box environment.

Other Comments:
Good place for clothing, since the smaller shops in town have a harder time keeping all sizes in stock. Not a good place for the little weird bits and pieces. Late hours are a bonus if you need something at the last minute.

Review Date
February 18, 2007

Overall Rating
 4 of 5

Customer Service Rating
 5 of 5

Technical Expertise Rating
 4 of 5

I visit this shop:
Once a month

Reviewed by: Willem Boom ,  Cross Country Rider

Shop Summary:
This shop is part of the REI Store. It carries the Novara Brand (REI), Marin and a few others. The service is first rate. I bought my first MTB from this store.

Customer Service:
Excellent. REI folks are very helpful and back-up their products with strong service.