From 1 February,
you'll be able to have a Specialized bike delivered fully assembled to your door
” reads Specialized’s statement.
“Now you can shop when, where, and how you want, from your favourite retailer to the comfort of your own home. We’re excited to announce Ship to Home and Specialized Delivery, two new ways to get your new Specialized bike without getting in the car.”
Two new direct-to-consumer options
However, Specialized will offer two new direct-to-consumer options for online buyers from 1 February.
The first, and the most similar to what Canyon offers, will see the bike shipped to your home almost fully assembled.
The box will contain the tools required for the final stages of setup and QR codes linked to how-to assembly videos.
Specialized also says further advice will be available over the phone and, if an issue requires hands-on assistance, buyers will be connected with a local retailer.
On top of that, Specialized will also offer a bespoke “white glove” delivery service.
The bike will be delivered to you by a Specialized representative, who will then ensure it fits and is set up properly, while advising on basic maintenance and, finally, taking you for a ride.
Delivery or service fees for either option have not yet been revealed.
However, dealers will receive from 50 per cent to 75 per cent of Specialized’s margin if they are involved in stocking or assembling a bike, it has been reported.
Finally, Specialized has updated its warranty to allow riders to access support at any dealer, regardless of where they purchased the bike. This will come at no extra cost to the rider and the retailer will be credited for any labour.
1 comment:
Unfortunately,
seems Specialized want to have their cake and eat it too. If I’m buying direct, then I expect a better price. If I’m buying from a shop, I recognize the shop is getting a cut to stay in business.
That business provides support, supplies etc. So I expect a cost. No matter the claims,no doubt Specialized will end up with a bigger chunk of the sale price, while telling the shops they should be grateful for getting their remaining crumbs. I have nothing against buying direct. Last bike was a direct brand, the two before from a local shop. But this model is not going to make them competitive with the direct to consumer brands where bang for the buck really matters, versus full shop price, while raking over the shops.
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