When it comes to buying or selling a pre-owned bike, The Pro's Closet has carved a niche for itself as a haven for bike enthusiasts. However, are the bikes offered here really hidden gems or overrated finds? Our The Pro's Closet review will reveal the truth.
What is The Pro's Closet?
The Pro's Closet is an online marketplace specifically tailored for cyclists, offering a seamless platform to buy, sell, and upgrade bikes and gear. It was founded over a decade ago by Nick Martin, a former professional mountain bike racer. Struggling to make ends meet, Martin found solace and financial reprieve in selling his unwanted bike gear on eBay.
Eventually, he extended his assistance to friends, aiding them in selling their bikes and gear online. This grassroots venture sowed the seeds for The Pro's Closet, a company envisioned to revolutionize the way cyclists buy and sell bikes. With a mission to facilitate frequent garage upgrades for cycling enthusiasts, the company stepped into the market with a unique proposition.
The Pro's Closet review for buyers
For prospective buyers, The Pro's Closet seems like a promising destination. They offer a wide range of products, from top-of-the-line bikes to essential accessories like helmets, apparel, and more. But before you click the "buy now" button, it's important to consider a few key factors:
What does The Pro's Closet offer?
The Pro's Closet prides itself on its Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) bikes. The Pro's Closet bikes are gently used, meticulously inspected, restored, and serviced to ensure they are in optimal condition. The restoration process involves eight phases and 141 points of inspection, guaranteeing that every bike meets high-quality standards. Whether you're in the market for a road bike, mountain bike, e-bike, or gravel bike, The Pro's Closet has you covered.
Apart from bikes, The Pro's Closet also offers a diverse range of products, including:
- Frames:
For those who prefer to build their custom bikes, The Pro's Closet offers a selection of high-quality frames. Whether you're seeking a carbon road frame for lightning speed or a durable mountain bike frame for rugged terrains, TPC has a variety of options to suit your needs.
- Wheels:
The quality of your wheels can significantly impact your cycling experience. Their range of wheelsets allows you to find the perfect match for your style and terrain.
- Components:
Cycling components can enhance your bike's performance. You can choose from a broad selection of components, from drivetrains to brakes, to fine-tune your ride.
- Accessories:
TPC also stocks a variety of cycling accessories, from clothing and helmets to handlebar tape and water bottle cages, ensuring that you have everything you need for a comfortable and safe ride.
Bike quality
All The Pro's Closet CPO-used bikes are inspected carefully by experts
What sets TPC apart is their commitment to bike quality. Unlike traditional bike shops where a single mechanic handles a bike, at TPC, every CPO-used bike is inspected and serviced by a team of at least 8 expert mechanics. These specialists, experienced with a multitude of bike brands and models, meticulously inspect and service the bikes, ensuring that they meet the highest standards.
The service process is comprehensive, ranging from washing the bike and replacing worn parts like tires and chains to inspecting and servicing the drivetrain and wheels. Tires are sealed, wheels are trued, suspension is serviced (where appropriate), and brakes are bled. All The Pro's Closet bikes undergo a rigorous test ride to catch any issues like squeaking brakes or sticky suspension before they are shipped to customers. This attention to detail ensures that buyers receive bikes that are not only clean and nearly assembled but also ready to hit the road or trail without a hitch.
Is The Pro’s Closet legit?
A fundamental concern for any online buyer is the legitimacy of the platform they are dealing with. In the case of TPC, legitimacy is not just a claim but a proven fact.
The Pro's Closet address is located in Louisville, CO. This physical presence significantly adds to their credibility. Buyers can rest assured that they are dealing with a reputable and established company when shopping at The Pro's Closet.
With a decade-long presence, the company has become the epitome of reliability in the pre-owned bicycle market. TPC sources its products from manufacturers, retailers, and individuals, ensuring a diverse and authentic inventory. Furthermore, every bike undergoes a stringent Certified Pre-Owned inspection and top-to-bottom service before it's listed, guaranteeing customers a ride-ready experience.
The Pro's Closet price
When it comes to pricing, The Pro's Closet caters to a wide range of budgets. With around 699 bikes available on the website, prices can vary significantly. You can find entry-level bikes starting as low as $149.99, while high-end models can reach up to $13,249.99. This extensive price range makes it possible for both beginners and seasoned cyclists to find suitable options that fit their budgets.
For those who are more interested in building or upgrading their own bikes, The Pro's Closet also offers a diverse selection of frames and components. The frames category boasts 203 products, with prices ranging from $429.99 to $8,350.00. If you are looking to upgrade specific components, you will find thousands of options, with prices starting as low as $4.99 and going up to $2,999.99.
How long does Pro's Closet take to ship?
One of the primary concerns for online shoppers is the shipping duration. The Pro's Closet aims to process and ship all orders within two business days, ensuring a swift turnaround time. However, the actual shipping duration can fluctuate based on the location and the chosen carrier. While some customers have reported receiving their orders within four days, others experienced slightly longer shipping times, up to a week. Despite these variances, The Pro's Closet generally maintains efficient shipping practices.
The Pro's Closet returns
The Pro's Closet does offer returns, which is reassuring for buyers who may have second thoughts about their purchase. Their returns policy is designed to be hassle-free, with a 30-day money-back guarantee in place. If your bike or gear doesn't meet your expectations or the fit isn't quite right, they'll take it back.
Here are a few key points to consider regarding returns at The Pro's Closet:
- Returns must be initiated within 30 days of receiving your order.
- For bikes, frames, and wheels, you should reach out to their Ride Guides or call their customer service.
- For parts, apparel, and accessories, a return can be requested by completing a form and providing your order number and email associated with the order.
- Gift cards are non-refundable and ineligible for returns.
- The 30-day money-back guarantee ensures that customers have a risk-free shopping experience. Just keep in mind that shipping costs may be deducted from your refund.
The Pro’s Closet review for sellers
The Pro’s Closet Sell/Trade system
For sellers, the promise of a quick, convenient, and profitable transaction is enticing. So how does The Pro's Closet deliver on these expectations?
How does the Pro’s Closet work?
The process of selling your gear on TPC is designed to be straightforward and hassle-free:
- Create a TPC Account: Start by creating an account on their platform.
- Submit Your Item: Use the Sell/Trade App to submit your bike, frame, or wheelset.
- Expert Analysis: TPC’s expert team analyzes your submission, and if accepted, an offer is made within two business days.
- Verification: Get verified by their third-party verification service, Veriff.
- Choose Your Payment: If you accept the offer, you can opt for TPC store credit or cash via PayPal.
- Payment Options: If you choose cash, you can either opt for Delayed Cash Payment, which is processed based on chosen payment terms, or Instant Cash Payment, issued three business days after receiving and inspecting your item.
How much does The Pro’s Closet pay?
The compensation offered by The Pro's Closet varies significantly, depending on several pivotal factors. Market demand, item condition, and the company's current inventory levels play a pivotal role in determining the final offer. It's important to acknowledge the diverse experiences reported by sellers. While some have expressed disappointment with lower-than-expected offers, others have praised the straightforward and effortless transaction process. Ultimately, the payout from The Pro's Closet is contingent on the specific item and the prevailing market conditions.
Customer reviews
TPC's success story, however, isn’t without its blemishes, as reflected in some of The Pro's Closet reviews from customers. Some praised TPC for delivering used E-Bikes in exceptional condition, exceeding their expectations. The lost battery key was swiftly replaced, showcasing TPC's commitment to customer satisfaction.
The Pro's Closet customer reviews
However, several The Pro's Closet complaints shared less fortunate experiences. Some customers have received TPC's bikes with significant issues. Despite these setbacks, TPC's customer service redeemed the situation by offering a full refund for the faulty bike and a discount on a new one, displaying their dedication to rectifying mistakes.
The Pro's Closet customer reviews
Some other disgruntled customers voiced frustration with the lack of transparency regarding international shipping costs. The unexpected duty fees left a bitter taste, leading to a negative overall experience. Such experiences highlight areas where TPC can improve to maintain customer trust.
Pros and cons
When it comes to evaluating The Pro's Closet, understanding the nuanced advantages and disadvantages is crucial for potential buyers and sellers. Here's a detailed breakdown of the pros and cons:
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Pros |
Cons |
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- Variety of brands and styles. |
- Prices can be high for older and well-used bikes. |
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- Inspection and quality control. |
- Some people may prefer to negotiate prices with private sellers. |
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- Excellent customer service. |
- The cost of bikes may still be high for some people. |
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- Fast shipping. |
- The Pro's Closet may not be the best option for those looking for specific models or customization. |
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- 18-month trade-in program. |
- Prices offered for selling a bike may be lower than other means. |
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- Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) process. |
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- Bikes are fully serviced by a professional mechanic. |
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- Security of 30-day returns, world-class customer service, and fast shipping. |
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- Buying through a middleman reduces the risk of buying damaged or stolen items. |
By weighing these detailed pros and cons, individuals can make informed decisions when engaging with The Pro's Closet.
Who are the Pro’s Closet competitors?
In the realm of online cycling retail, The Pro's Closet faces competition from various companies, each offering its unique value proposition to cycling enthusiasts. Let's take a look at a couple of the notable competitors in this space:
Bike24 Holding
Bike24 Holding is a company that operates e-commerce cycling platforms online. They specialize in retailing a broad range of accessories and bicycles. With a focus on e-commerce, they offer a convenient and diverse selection of products for cyclists. While The Pro's Closet has a niche in pre-owned gear, Bike24 Holding caters to cyclists looking for new equipment and accessories. This distinction can be significant for riders who prefer brand-new gear, but it's essential to note that The Pro's Closet may have some hidden gems that are hard to come by elsewhere.
Cycle Solutions
Cycle Solutions is another player in the cycling retail industry. They provide a retail outlet for bikes and cycling equipment. Just like Bike24 Holding, they offer a wide array of accessories, bikes, and even electric vehicles. Cycle Solutions caters to a broad consumer base, from those seeking their first bike to avid cyclists looking for high-end equipment. However, Cycle Solutions focuses on customers who prefer to buy new. Therefore, if you're in the market for unique or hard-to-find items, The Pro's Closet could be your best bet.
Sole Bicycles
The Pro's Closet and Sole Bicycles cater to distinct customer preferences in the cycling market. The Pro's Closet stands out for its expertise in certified pre-owned bikes and gear, appealing to customers seeking quality and affordability in used cycles. On the other hand, Sole Bicycles shines in the realm of new bikes, offering fresh designs and the latest technology to enthusiasts looking for brand-new rides. The choice between the two ultimately boils down to the buyer's preference. The Pro's Closet is ideal for those embracing eco-friendly options and budget-conscious shoppers. Meanwhile, Sole Bicycles attracts riders desiring the latest innovations and a pristine cycling experience. There are also a lot of Sole Bicycles coupon codes to help riders save on new bikes and gear from the store.
The Pro's Closet coupon codes
One aspect that often influences a buyer's decision is the opportunity to save some money. Coupon codes and discounts can be a significant factor when choosing between competitors. The Pro's Closet understands this and offers various coupon codes and discounts to enhance the shopping experience for their customers.
These codes can provide significant discounts on a wide range of products, making it a go-to option for those seeking quality gear at lower prices. For avid cyclists and bargain hunters, The Pro's Closet coupon codes can be a valuable resource.
All the latest The Pro’s Closet discount codes are distributed on the CouponATime website, so make sure to check them out. Here are some of the best discounts that you can utilize:
Bottom Line
So, is The Pro's Closet a hidden gem or just another overrated platform? This The Pro's Closet review proves that the platform does live up to its claims, offering a transparent experience for sellers and a wide selection of high-quality, certified pre-owned gear for buyers. While it may have some rough edges, many customers have found valuable gems and great deals through The Pro's Closet, making it a promising option in the world of secondhand cycling gear. Explore the offerings at The Pro's Closet today and enjoy your cycling adventures.