Pro Connect 2008 v 2009 ?

[WALKERMAN]

I have had a Pro Connect for 6 months and I like it very much mainly because it looks like a normal bike. It is lightweight and quick but I did think at the time that it was a little pricey.

I was considering getting another one to replace my 3 year old Giant Lafree Twist ST which I have kept as a back-up. I would then have a spare charger and could swop batteries when needed.

Today I received an email from 50C about their new website layout and their range of bikes. I checked it out but was very surprised at the increased price for the 2009 range.

Can someone tell me exactly what I would be getting extra on a 2009 ProConnect compared to the 2008 model which I have now? I couldn't see anything on the website to justify the increase.

 

[iaing]

Collapse of the £ versus the Euro might be the reason.

Iain

 

[Mussels]

What is the increase?

 

[flecc]

What is the increase?

I think from memory of the old prices, about 12.5% to 20% on the various models since first introduced, and those are easily accounted for by the exchange rate increases. The VAT reduction has had a small offsetting effect.

The recommended prices that we don't pay are very much higher, and in most EU markets these bikes have been appreciably more expensive.
.

 

[Schwinnfan]

Why not import

All of these bikes are European spec with pan-European warranty and do not require type approval like cars. Is there not someone bringing them in from Germany? As anyone tried to deal with a dealer in Germany?

Phil

 

[Cyclezee]

Phil,

As Flecc has said, mainland Europe prices are considerably higher than the same models sourced from the UK, so there would be little point.

J hn

 

[flecc]

All of these bikes are European spec with pan-European warranty and do not require type approval like cars. Is there not someone bringing them in from Germany? As anyone tried to deal with a dealer in Germany?

Phil

In fact it may be worthwhile someone from Europe popping over here to Loughborough to buy one. Some countries have had Kalkhoff prices very much higher than ours, and Eurostar carries bikes.
.

 

[Intex]

When I was in Europe,Germany late last year, I inquired about purchasing a Kalkhof in Germany, for export, but it still worked out better buying it from 50Cycles, which I did, still waiting for delivery.