We all have our favorite things, and for a seasoned cyclist a favorite shop is definitely a thing. But what is it exactly that makes it one's favorite? Is it smoking hot deals, great mechanics, awesome gear, friendly and understanding staff?
On Wednesday January 4th we will dive into the dynamics that make a bike shop a great shop as well as discuss what factors can make a bike shop so intimidating to a wide variety of patrons.
We will be joined by seasoned bike shop staff and owners including Andrew Foire of Bikesmith Cyclery in Prescott Arizona, Alex Zimmerman of Western Bikeworks in Portland Oregon, Jackie Mautner of Community Cycling Center in Portland Oregon and Leah Benson of Gladys Bikes in Portland Oregon.
About the shops!
Bikesmith is the oldest continually operated bike shop in Prescott, originally founded in 1947. Over the last seven decades the shop has changed locations, owners & employees, and bike genres. Today they have one simple objective: to be THE premier mountain bike shop in Northern Arizona, providing excellent service and a good time to everyone that walks through our door.
Western Bikeworks was founded in 2003 and is dedicated to providing excellent service and great products for the avid cyclist, whether they be commuters, triathletes, road cyclists, cyclocross competitors, or mountain bike enthusiasts. By consistently delivering great prices, same-day shipping and fantastic service, they've grown into one of the most popular internet retailers of road cycling gear on the net.
The Community Cycling Center is a nonprofit organization founded in 1994 that helps people access their community by bicycle. They operate a full-service bike repair shop and partner with communities on neighborhood-based projects and programs. They believe that all Portlanders—regardless of income or background—should have the opportunity to experience the joy, freedom, and health benefits of bicycling.
Gladys is a a full-service bicycle repair and sales shop that specializes commuting, touring, cyclocross and recreational bicycle sales, finding the perfect saddle for your body/bike -- they even have a saddle library! They also focus on semi-custom bicycle builds that fit like a glove, approachable, affordable and reliable bicycle repair, and the friendliest service around. They are a women, trans* and femme focused space, but are equally welcome of all people.
- KBOO