Halfords - Soton Winchester Road
241 Winchester Rd, Southampton SO16 6TP, United Kingdom
4.4
677 reviews
8 comments
WHJF+2X Southampton, United Kingdom
Location reporting
Claim this location
Monday: 9–20
Tuesday: 9–20
Wedneasday: 9–20
Thursday: 8–20
Friday: 9–20
Saturday: 8–18
Sunday: 10–17
Tuesday: 9–20
Wedneasday: 9–20
Thursday: 8–20
Friday: 9–20
Saturday: 8–18
Sunday: 10–17
I purchased a second hand bike from a local recycling centre. I wouldn't usually do this, however this bike was in fantastic condition throughout.
I first took my bicycle to Decathlon in Southampton for them to assess the condition and they told me I needed a derailleur adjustment, new front break pad, new chain and new cable all costing an excess of £60+. I questioned them about their assessment and stated that the items identified only required adjustment and some didn't require replacement at all, however they stated otherwise. Something felt off. Although I am an inexperienced cyclist and hadn't used a bicycle since I was 16, I knew they were pulling my leg and they must have seen me coming.
So I decided to get a second opinion. I booked it in for the free bike health check at Halfords, Winchester Road, Southampton and their bike technician, Cam, checked the bike over and made a few small adjustments and it was returned in perfect condition. Brakes were sound and needed tightening, the derailleur needed adjusting and the cable simply needed tightening. The chain did not require replacing at all as it was in fantastic condition. All of this had been communicated to Decathlon, but they were intent on telling me otherwise and desperate for me to spend an arm and a leg on things which only required adjustment or tightening. Cam saved me just over £60 and in this day and age where people are counting every penny and pound, I cannot thank him enough.
Now although I had not spent money in Halfords, I now know who I trust in future and when I do get any work done on mine or my son's bike I know exactly where I will be going. I would rather spend my money in Halfords with staff who are honest and deserving of it. I will not be returning to Decathlon with my bike ever again. In any trade where a service takes place, trust is key and has a huge impact on the brand and future business. I know where I will be taking my business and I know who I will be recommending.
During the bike check, I noted 3 occasions where other customers approached Cam for assistance and he helped them straight away. Exemplary customer service.
I must also take the time to praise Glen and his colleagues for their 10 point check on my vehicle. He was knowledgeable enough to correctly point out the issues with my coolant which I was already aware of. Some knowledgeable staff on site.
I communicated this with their manager Antoine who was grateful for the feedback and assured me he would pass the praise on to his colleagues.
Very poor
The staff were fast, efficient and really nice.
Strongly recommend!