Buy e-bike online vs local

Should You Buy an Aventon or Velotric E-bike Online — or from a Local Bike Shop?

Thinking about ordering your e-bike online?

Brands like Aventon and Velotric make it easy to click “Buy Now.” But before you order a bike in a box, here’s what most riders don’t consider.

If you're in Rochester NY and comparing online vs local, this guide will help you make the smarter long-term decision.

Is It Cheaper to Buy Online?

In most cases — no.

At Rochester Bicycle, we match promotional pricing from Aventon and Velotric.

If the manufacturer runs a sale, we match it.
If they offer a free gift promotion, you get that too.

You pay the same price.

But what you get is completely different.

What Happens When an E-Bike Ships “In a Box”?

Direct-to-consumer bikes arrive partially assembled.

That means:

  • Handlebars need alignment

  • Brakes need setup and bedding

  • Derailleurs need tuning

  • Firmware may need updating

  • Bolts need proper torque

Mistakes here can affect performance and safety.

When you buy from Rochester Bicycle:

✔ Professional assembly
✔ Full safety inspection
✔ Brakes properly bedded in
✔ Firmware updates (when applicable)
✔ Correct torque specs

You leave ready to ride — not ready to wrench.

Proper Sizing & Fit Matters

Ordering online means guessing your frame size.

Too big?
Too small?
You’re dealing with returns or discomfort.

When you buy local, we size you properly before you leave.

Comfort matters — especially on an e-bike you plan to ride regularly.

Where Do You Go for Service?

This is where the biggest difference shows up.

E-bikes require:

  • Tune-ups

  • Flat repairs

  • Firmware updates

  • Warranty support

  • Brake adjustments

  • Drivetrain service

If you buy online, you still need a local shop willing to work on your bike.

At Rochester Bicycle, we support what we sell.

The Real Cost of Ownership

Let’s talk numbers.

A basic e-bike tune-up at our shop is $199.

Two tune-ups = $398.

A typical e-bike flat repair costs:
$99 labor + $25–$35 tube
≈ $125–$135 per flat.

That adds up quickly.

That’s why many of our customers choose:

🏆 Ultimate Ride Protection – $349

Includes:

  • 2 Professional Tune-Ups (Retail $398)

  • Lifetime Flat Repairs

  • Priority Express Flat Lane

  • Unlimited Minor Adjustments

  • Free Accessory Installation

  • 10% Off Replacement Parts

  • Free Software Updates (where applicable)

You’re ahead before you even get a flat.

Online retailers cannot offer this.

Our technicians are trained to service Aventon and Velotric e-bikes.

And we offer protection options that online retailers simply cannot.

Same Price. More Support. Local Confidence.

When you buy your Aventon or Velotric from Rochester Bicycle:

  • You pay the same promotional price

  • You get professional assembly

  • You get correct sizing

  • You get local service support

  • You unlock access to protection plans

Don’t just buy an e-bike.

Buy it from a shop that stands behind it.

Looking for an Aventon or Velotric Dealer in Rochester NY?

We’re here.

Stop in, test ride, and see the difference for yourself.

And if you want maximum peace of mind, ask about our Ultimate Ride Protection package.

👉 Learn more about Ultimate Ride Protection here.

 

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