Niche bike parts and accessories distributor

Independent bike shops, and sometimes small repair stands, that want a specialist range or a smaller supplier alongside the large distributors.

You buy at wholesale or distributor pricing and sell to shops at a markup, usually with minimum order sizes and payment terms. Repeat orders from a steady list of shops drive the income.

• Knowing bikes and parts
• Sales and relationship building
• Inventory tracking and organizing
• Handling invoices and payment terms

• Manufacturers may set minimum orders or want proof of a business, so check their terms before committing
• Ask your state about a seller's permit or resale certificate, and about any local business license
• Check whether your home insurance covers stock, and consider general liability and product liability insurance
• Check HOA or lease rules and zoning if you store stock or receive pallet deliveries at home
• Cash can be tied up in unsold stock and late-paying shops, so start small

Startup costs are typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on the range you stock, minimum orders and how much inventory you buy up front. Cash can be tied up in unsold stock, so starting small helps.

Ask your state about a seller's permit or resale certificate, and about any local business license. Also check manufacturer terms, HOA or lease rules and zoning for storing stock at home, and whether your insurance covers inventory.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue of typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on your product range, how many shops you supply and payment terms. Plan on at least about 15 hours a week.