When it comes to buying motorcycle gear and accessories, two of the biggest names in the industry are Cycle Gear and RevZilla. Both companies have been around for over 15 years, offering riders a wide selection of helmets, jackets, boots and more from top brands.
But when it comes down to making a purchase, which retailer comes out on top? Here’s an in-depth look at the pros and cons of Cycle Gear and RevZilla to help you decide.
A Brief Comparison Table:
| Feature | Cycle Gear | RevZilla |
| Store Locations | 130+ physical stores nationwide | Online only |
| Product Selection | Broad selection focused on value brands and budget gear | Huge selection of premium, high-end gear |
| Prices | Affordable, lower pricing especially on house brands | Generally higher prices on premium brands |
| Returns | Standard return policy, not as flexible | Free returns within 60 days |
| Promotions | Frequent storewide sales, up to 30% off | Less frequent sales, average 10-20% off |
| Customer Service | In-store assistance from staff | Phone, chat, text and email support |
| Sizing/Fit Information | Try in-store, staff assistance | Detailed product videos and reviews |
| Beginner Friendly | Yes, great budget options | Less so, caters to enthusiasts |
| Elite Brands | Limited selection | Specializes in premium gear |
Overview Of Cycle Gear
Founded in 1999, Cycle Gear is one of the largest motorcycle gear retailers in the US with over 130 physical store locations nationwide.
They offer equipment and accessories for street, dirt, dual sport and snowmobile riding from brands like Scorpion, Bilt, Sedici and many more.
Some key highlights of Cycle Gear include:
- Massive selection of affordable beginner and intermediate level gear. Good for new riders on a budget.
- Brick and mortar stores across the country make trying on and returning items easy.
- Price match guarantee against local competitors’ prices.
- Cycle Gear house brands offer very low cost alternatives.
- Frequent sales and store wide discounts like 20% off everything make deals easy to find.
Overview Of RevZilla
Founded in 2007, RevZilla has grown to become one of the most popular online motorcycle gear retailers worldwide.
They offer over 1 million products from over 1000 top brands with a focus on premium quality gear.
Some key highlights of RevZilla include:
- Huge selection of high end, premium motorcycle gear and accessories.
- Very detailed product videos, reviews and sizing advice available.
- Excellent customer service and support options like live chat.
- Free shipping and returns on all orders over $39.
- Frequent sales and discounts on top brands not always found elsewhere.
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Cycle Gear Vs. RevZilla – The Pros
Cycle Gear Pros
- With over 130 stores nationwide, Cycle Gear offers convenience, making it easy to shop in person, try products on for size and fit and return or exchange items.
- Affordable house brands like Bilt and Sedici offer very low cost gear, perfect for beginning riders on a tight budget.
- Frequent promotions like 20-30% off storewide sales make bargains easy to find on cheaper gear.
- Staff are other fellow riding enthusiasts who can offer advice and tips.
RevZilla Pros
- As a premium online retailer, RevZilla provides an unmatched selection of high-end, top brand motorcycle gear not found elsewhere.
- Detailed product videos and reviews take the guesswork out of shopping online. Fitment and sizing advice abounds.
- Excellent customer service options like phone, email, text and live chat support.
- Free shipping and returns make buying risk free.
- Exclusive access to limited edition, specialty collaborations not available at other retailers.
Cycle Gear Vs. RevZilla – The Cons
Cycle Gear Cons
- Selection is focused on value products so high end brands are less common or often excluded from promotions.
- Most house brands have a reputation for lower quality and durability compared to premium labels.
- Physical locations are focused heavily in certain regions. Limited for riders elsewhere.
- Returns and exchanges within policy but not as flexible as some competitors.
RevZilla Cons
- No physical storefronts available to try products in person before buying. Must rely on guidance online.
- Longer processing and shipping times as items come direct from warehouses rather than stores.
- Higher prices across the board as most products sold are premium quality.
- Limited bargain options compared to stores promoting frequent sales on lower cost gear.
- Restocking fees applied if exchanges or returns are not due to retailer error.
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Key Differences
Cycles Gear has a massive selection of affordable, budget friendly motorcycle gear available for purchase or try on in person at stores across the country. Frequent sales make deals easy to find, especially on lower cost house brands perfect for beginning or value focused riders.
In contrast, RevZilla offers an unrivaled online selection of high-end, premium motorcycle gear not available from most local retailers. Their focus is providing detailed reviews and sizing guidance to make shopping easy. Excellent customer support options and hassle-free returns remove the risks of shopping online. But bargain hunters may find better deals at lower prices elsewhere.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, Cycle Gear and RevZilla are separate competing motorcycle gear retailers operating their own websites, brands and stores. However, Cycle Gear is the parent company of RevZilla after acquiring the company in 2018. But the brands continue to operate independently.
No, you cannot use RevZilla for shopping at Cycle Gear locations or online. They are sister companies owned by the same parent but operate as totally separate retailers. Purchases are not interchangeable between them.
No, since the brands operate independently, RevZilla items cannot be returned to Cycle Gear stores. Items ordered from RevZilla must be returned to RevZilla following their return and exchange policy.
J.W. Childs Associates, a private equity firm, has owned Cycle Gear since 2015. In 2018, Cycle Gear acquired RevZilla to add an online retail presence to complement its chain of physical stores.
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The Verdict
When choosing between Cycle Gear and RevZilla, consider your budget, product needs and shopping preferences. Beginner riders on a tight budget will appreciate Cycle Gear’s stores full of affordable gear and bargain deals.
For premium quality and high-end brands shop RevZilla’s unmatched online selection complete with trusted guidance and support. There’s reasons shoppers remain loyal to both retailers in the motorcycle gear world.