I went into Evans in Cambridge a few weeks ago wanting to test ride a Cube Hyde Race but unfortunately they only keep in their warehouse. I'd already called their customer services who told me it would be a £50 deposit on a £900 bike. As I wasn't sure on size possibly between two sizes they could get both in to store for me to try only paying £50 which would be refunded if I didn't by either of them. So I went into Evan's Cambridge store. First time 4 people already waiting at till and only one person serving, queue not moving, sales person looking very stressed. Waited and waited, but gave up and walked out. Went back later, same person but only two people a head of me waiting to be served. Eventually after an eternity it was my turn. The girl said there would be a 50% deposit to pay on BOTH sizes of the same bike if she ordered them. Told her this was not what their customer services had told me, only £50, and she told me no I need to pay £1k to get them in. She told me I would be refunded if I changed my mind. Tell you what I have changed my mind already. No deal. I'm not giving you £1k interest free just to test ride two bikes which might or might not fit.
I would say with an approach like this Evan's days are numbered. I haven't shopped there in ages and doesn't look like I have missed much. Anyway I went down the road to Townsends in Chesterton where a bike caught my eye. They were happy to let me test ride it for FREE.
