Evans Cycles

I ordered a helmet for my son — it’s a highly rated helmet not sold in the US, probably because it’s not federally approved but it’s a bike helmet for a toddler who’ll only be using it in a mini cooper i push him around in. No big deal. Anyway, I received the helmet and accessories in no time, shocking as it’s coming all the way from the UK. I open my package only to realize the helmet’s still got the security tag on it and the inner tube doesn’t stay inflated. I email customer service (who were quick to reply, to their credit) and their initial fix for me is to find a local shop to take the security tag off, they’re sure it won’t be a problem as i have proof of purchase, they tell me. Really? REALLY?
After a few exchanges they tell me they’ll ship me a new helmet and i can ship the old one back, shipping reimbursed with receipt. Fine, again, no big deal. But c’mon, you’d think if you’re shipping something all the way to the US you’ll check for things like oh, you know, security tags? And it was defective to boot, did you send me a floor model that’s been manhandled? *sigh*

The staff here is helpful and knowledgeable.
Although part of a much larger chain this particular one is smallish but still well stocked.
I had dropped my bike in for a bronze service. They did a good job, ironed out the niggles and was ready on time. The guy didn’t try to push me into getting something more expensive or try to fleece me, and answered all the questions I had. In all a very pleasant experience.
Only negative would be the lack of variety in the bikes on display.

I went here for a few basic repairs and got great service from their employees. The repair guy looked carefully at the problems I showed him, did his best to minimise what I had to pay and did the work really promptly.
As a shop, the range is as good as I have ever seen.

I didn’t buy a bike here but had one reassembled after shipping it from overseas. The repair dept. was quick, thorough and very friendly. They took care of some small details that I didn’t mention.
I’ll definitely re-​visit for any bike-​related matters.

As Evans’ flagship store in London, it deserves a shout.
As a company, Evans is pretty middle of the road. The sales are never that good. The staff is never that helpful. Their workshops verge on the woeful.
But this Evans stocks a lot of stuff, even though it’s never had any of the things I’ve been looking for. So it probably doesn’t have that one thing you’re actually looking for either, but you’re not going to find that thing in any bricks-​and-​mortar store in London. I’ve looked. Just buy it online already.

Your typical Evans. Decent service, but a REALLY extensive underground catalogue! There’s 10,000 sq ft of bikes, accessories and clothing downstairs. Open late, so you’re not stranded. Had a flat recently and was taking French classes right down the street. This Evans saved my life so I didn’t have to walk home from Oxford Circus with a flat tire. Brilliant.
Cheaper than the Cycle Surgery right across the corner. Definitely will head here while I’m in the area for anything I need that’s cycle related. Sorry independent stores, these people got it all.
PS. Can you please store a bell for oversized handles? KTHXBAI.