Is there a big difference between a bike that i buy at target thats around ($150-200) compared to a bike shop?

whats the difference between a bike at target or sports authority then at like a bike shop for almost double the price?

Sheesh, I wish those that didn't know what they are talking about would not contribute, but thats what makes the world go around.

Lets compare $200 Target bike and a $250 bike shop bike, OK?

1) Bike shop- built by professionals. Target- built by hacks who are hired and paid by the number of bikes built;

2) Bike shop- offers different frame sizes to better conform to rider. Target- one size only;

3) Bike shop- offers ervice after the sale, often free or reduced cost. Target- no meaningful service;

4) Bike shop- salespeople help you choose best bike for your needs. Target- roll the dice by reading descriptions.

If you need any more differences let me know, there are dozens, if not hundreds.

there is a big difference. at a bike shop with people who actually care about biking, they install all the parts on the bike correctly instead of a kid at target putting the bike together. The bike would therefore be more reliable because parts are correctly put on. Although the bikes may be more expensive at a bike shop. the bike is much better than a department store bike from wal mart, target, or costco etc. if your planning on using this bike for commuting it may be more sensible to buy a cheaper bike because it may be stolen. but if your getting a beginner bike, get the better bike from a bike shop because it wont restrict you from getting better at biking, unlike a cheap bike which has its limits.
good luck :)

The more expensive bike is likely to be lighter, work better, and last longer. The bike shop will have people who know how to properly fit the bike to you which will greatly increase your enjoyment. After the first week or so, bikes need to be readjusted. Target can't do that for you. Adjustments also need to be changed as your riding fitness and styles improve. Again, the bike shop will often do this for free. Target won't do it at all.

HTH

Nothing really. The bike shop may throw in a free tune-up for free if you buy theirs. The free tune-up can come in handy as you should get your bike tuned up every 3-4 months just to be safe. Tune-ups shouldn't be that expensive though. However, getting the tune-up for free can help if your trying to save money or if you are a little short on cash at the time.

Target bikes, Sports authority bikes are a no go.

Bikes at the bike shop have 100% chro-moly frames. meaning when you get into bigger tricks. it wont snap on you.

they also dont weigh 40 lbs. ;)

All the parts are replaceable on a Local Bike Shop bike, because its good.
Mongoose bikes come with horrid parts, and these replacements are EXTREMELY hard to get.

DO NOT! get Mongoose, GT,Dyno,Eastern,Dragonfly, stuff like those bikes.

Get preferably Fit, Stolen,Kink, WTP is the best.

get something that will last

If you're a casual rider go for the target one, since you wont see a difference. On the other hand if you are going to put some serious miles on it, bike shops tend to have bikes with more respectable names and better components.