Does anyone have recommendations on preferred local-owned bicycle shops in the vicinity of Columbia MD & any comments regarding bicycle rental?
My niece lives in that area. She bought her youngest son (13) a road bike (name brand from a national chain) as he has done a couple of youth tri's and likes to ride. She's contemplating a road bike for herself, as you can't really send a youth out on the roads by themselves - not for any mileage. And just like around here, cycling for the young is the same as home schooling.
My initial reaction is get a "real" road bike (entry level name brand), but I'm thinking she'd be better off renting a few different styles (ie road vs comfort). The good thing is that she skis, so she's not a couch potato, but cycling is a new sport for her. When I purchased my road bike, I'd been on mtn bikes for several years, so I wasn't a total novice.
Appreciate any suggestions. She knows one or two cyclists in her area, but I wanted to solicit here as I've kept up with the posts for a couple of years.
Thank you
Pamela in Durham
(another parent riding with an "underage" cyclist)