Bicycle Shop---customer feels a part of the family....

I visited my first bicycle shop in over 30 years back in 2012--2014, I am still a part of the family.

The moment I walked in I felt the thriving atmosphere, the environment and notion the shop welcomed new customers with open arms...

The repetition was over and over--every time I walk in they say "Hello Jim"---no matter the day, the time....If I am with my daughter they ask her how school is, horse riding, mountain biking and of course they are completely vested in my family, which is the same with others..

"You won't find a better local Cincinnati Bike shop than Jim's. Guess who the general manager is . . . .JIM!! Guess who the local expert is . . . . JIM!! There isn't a better local bicycle dealer than Jim's, love their product, their service, and the follow up after the sale. Once you become a customer of Jim's, you're treated as a family member. I highly recommend you purchase your next bike, or have your current bike serviced, at Jim's."  Review of Jims Bicycle Shop---Cincinnati, Ohio

For the record, I grew up in Cincinnati and yes my first bicycle was purchased in that city--but it was not a Jims....But I was looking for a great review about family and Jim is my name so I chose this one...

This review is the key to a business, on of many points that small businesses thrive on..

Bicycle shops are creating a family within a family...

On your next purchase consider stopping at a bike shop first---you WILL see and feel the passion. 

As the picture states--ALL love bikes; mountain bike, road bike, cruiser, TT, cycle-cross---it does not matter. Bicycle shops have staff with a wide range of knowledge---but they thrive on BIKES.....Willing to share it with us the customer. 

Bicycle shop--staff delivering customer first business.

When I first decided I would ride a bicycle from Indiana to Florida, I had too take into consideration I could not do it on my own.

I had to seek out the pros--I had to get a glimpse into the needs of cycling, I must head up to my local bicycle shop...

When I headed in, the staff jumped up and headed over to welcome me to the shop--they offered a sturdy handshake and welcomed me, it was so engaging, so welcoming. 

"Brought in my (flat) front tire to have the tube replaced. One customer was being helped already but the other guy in the shop immediately stopped what he was working on and assisted me. He replaced the tube & inner cloth out on the spot in just about 5 minutes. It literally took me more time to find parking than to get the repair done. Awesome service I will definitely be back for any of my future bicycle needs."--Jeffrey T.via Google review of Mike The Bike Guy--New Orleans, LA.

One swift, complete interaction can give a whole new perspective on any business--bicycle shops deliver. 

Bicycle shop---business delivering customer experience over and over....

 "I have bought 5 bikes over the last 7 years from Atlanta Cycling (road bike, race bike, mountain bike, trainer bike, etc). The main reason I have gone back is their level of service. This is a no-nonsense, straight shooting outfit that will give the best possible advice and service to their clients. Highly recommended."--Johann D. via Google review on Atlanta Cycling. Atlanta, GA. 

5 bikes--5 times he returned.

Highly RECOMMEND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This by far is the core of a excellent business, one that customers keep coming back for more--in this case the patron came back 5 times--that is incredible. 

Think about this for a moment- on day one, the first encounter he bought a bike....He was so thrilled with his experience, the service, the bond, he came back 4 more times.

That is a true raving fan of a business, he raved so much he bought 5 bikes.

Bikes shops all over the WORLD are delivering this type of service, one that is so engaging the customer has no other choice but to return, and return over and over....

WOW!!!!!!!!  Impressive little shop, the WOW moment keeps circulating over and over like a broken record. 

Bicycle Shop---London, England giving first rate customer service.

Across the globe bicycles are growing fast and faster--technology is creating a much smoother and a  enjoyable experience for all to travel.

The TT rider, the commuter, the weekend warrior, the ice-cream shop family, BMX--how ever you look at it bikes are growing and growing--Cycle-cross is massive, MTB took off over 25 years ago and are still growing.

However what has not changed is the bicycle shop--all communities have them, know where they are. People whom are not close, go out of their way to hit them up--why because they offer excellent customer service in a niche business.

"Time and time again their workshop delivers. Had everything from wheel building to minor services and a major one, over the period of 2 years. Their work is so exceptional that makes me want to ride my bike, farther and faster. And the prices are quite reasonable too!. I wouldn't service my bike anywhere else in London. These guys care."-- Yannis B-- Google review on Condor Cycles...London, England.

"Condor Cycles is my most regular cycling haunt in London. Fantastic range of kit, parts, bicycles and nutritional products along with very knowledgeable staff."  Elisabeth A.  Google review of Condor Cycles...London, England. 

I am a raving fan for superior customer service, one that is so memorable customers keep coming back for more.

I have a passion for bicycles, and my local shop displays the same attributes as noted above by two reviewers---think about your local shop, the one you hit up as a kid, as an adult...Where you bought your child first bike---memories that last forever, cycling is massive and continue to grow and prosper....So good old fashion customer service need to apply. 

bicycle shop---they remember customers name, WOW!

"They're always so nice and give you the best deals! Best of all they remember their customers. My fiance and I have been going to this bike shop for years and the owner has always been awesome and remembered us even though we barely go in because they do such a great job fixing our bikes!"--via K.D. Google Review--Sunday Cycles Bicycle Shop---Phoenix, AZ.

 "Went in with my niece to find her a bicycle for her 10th birthday, and left with a beach cruiser for myself as well. (Plus the most hilarious "bike accouterments" for my handlebars, and safety gear for the niece.) The guys at Sunday Cycles were so nice and so helpful... I got a LOT of information about the bikes I was interested in, and I didn't Google it or anything, but I think I got a really good price on what I purchased. It felt really good to do business with a local shop that's mom & pop... since I won't need a new bike for a while, I'm definitely going back to get tune-ups there. Great local business."--via Alisa S. Google Review -- Sunday Cycles Bicycle Shop--Phoenix, AZ.


Here are TWO reviews of one bicycle shop--that is two positive reviews of a business, not just any business, but a niche business; a bicycle shop.

There are 29 reviews via Google, and the rating is a 4.6 out of a 5----all I can say is WOW!!!

4.6 -- that is saying we are in business for you the customer, we are so passionate about our hobby that we will share our knowledge with you--we WILL give YOU the best quality when it comes to interacting with customers on the subject of bicycles--but more than bikes, it states WE WILL  remember your name..

I am good with people, I enjoy conversation---I would love to shop here.

This is a the gift of small business, the gift of mom and pop---the bike shop is giving more to the community and they are the talk of the town--we can learn a ton from bicycle shops.

Bicycle Shop---delivering superior customer service.

 "I went into Motion Cycling and Fitness early in the summer for a bike fit. For months I experienced pain in the saddle and was unable to ride for more than an hour without discomfort. The owner set me up for a professional bike fit and spent two hours with me to ensure that I left with the perfect fit. I have been riding pain-free since! I also bring my bike there for repairs and can count on their expertise in products. I highly recommend this shop for competitive cyclists."---Jennifer M. via Google review of Motion Cycling. Fishers, Indiana 

I have been saying it takes a split second to create a outstanding customer experience---good or bad.

The above review is of a bicycle shop, but there is no difference between a car, bike, t.v. etc....

We as the business, we have got to be on our toes, ready to engage with the customer our knowledge, our people first atmosphere---sky caps at the airport, nail this feature. They are the first we interact with and that sets our trip into motion....Don't forget to tip! 

I enjoy my local bicycle shop--the store, the setting, the equipment, the accessories, all of those are awesome and I love the selection--but what I enjoy the most is the people--I love my bicycle shop for they are in the people business......They MUST speak with customers, speak to them about their passion---it is amazing how connecting they are.

Bike shop---customer service so good, I'LL BE BACK!

The ultimate reward for any business is the words "I'll Be Back"---then they do stroll back in with enthusiasm.

The catch is the business has to give the same performance over again--it can't be a one time deal.

You ever go back to a vacation spot for the second time and it just is not as fun as the first time--same idea. As a business we have got to give an encore every single time--we have GOT to be on our toes 24/7, not 16/5---we have to deliver every single time. No Exceptions!

Customers have a choice--internet, Craigslist, E-Bay, China etc.....

When customer s walk in--we have got to dazzle them, give them the 5 star treatment through our passion of the business--through our knowledge, bond, and our leadership qualities. We want to give them a reason to come back again, we want them to walk out with a WOW! moment and return for a WOW! moment.


"I have bought two nice bikes from Cycle Works plus the usual clothes and accessories. I am always treated in a friendly and professional manner and feel like they appreciate my business. It's a well run, well stocked local bike store. I will be back!" Robert K.  Via Google Review on Cycle Works. Lincoln, NE. 

Arnold could not have said it any better---I WILL BE BACK.....That is the core of a customer driven business, customers coming back for more--I have been saying this for a while, bike shops are guiding the way in a competitive market...We can learn a few things from them--walk into your local shop and see what I am talking about. 

Bike shop--WE understand our customers---we bike as well and love it.

"The Berlin Bicycle staff is made up of cyclists who enjoy and appreciate the diversity found in the sport today.  We all started out riding just for fun and our bikes were as humble as our intentions.  What has changed today?  Not much…  We all still ride for the pure enjoyment and we have not forgotten the beginnings, which have held some of the best memories.  Our mission is to pass the enjoyment of cycling on to you and to be helpful, especially to those who are just starting out.

In addition, we are all mechanics here.  This provides you a unique experience were the people who sell you the product also use it and maintain it on a daily basis." Via Berlin Bike website---

This is so typical of a bicycle shop---made up of cyclists who enjoy the sport......

This is what separates mega stores from BIKE SHOPS.....

We are ALL Mechanics who work here...

Once again this is what separates mega stores from BIKE SHOPS.....

I will never forget the day I had to purchase my helmet before I even started training for my 2000 mile journey--I went to the mega store, because I thought they were cheaper---I looked over the selection and asked a clerk walking by if they carried XXL, he said ---If you don't see it then we don't have in the back either, then he walked away...

So where do you think I went back too? You guessed it, my local bicycle shop---upon entering a young lady in her cycling outfit said may I help you? With that I said I need a helmet, she led me over to the arrangement of equipment , looked at my head and said try this on....One shot, one look over, one glance and I had the helmet I needed. 

Berlin Bike is a niche shop---providing a service to cyclists; newbies, veterans and families. But the core to this shop and the 5,000 plus across the U.S. is that they understand the sport of cycling--they have been through it, they do it, they live it.......So the next time you need a piece of equipment, ask yourself are you going cheap or are you going for quality service---which generates a superb experience. 

Customer buys 2 bikes---customer experience of the charts.

 "I recently purchased two new bikes, one for my wife and one for myself. The sales person was knowledgeable and very pleasant. He never pressured us to take something that we didn't want, he let us ride as many bikes as we wanted and listened to our feedback in helping us decide what the correct choice would be. We also get a two week tune and a spring time tune for free with our bikes. My wife and I couldn't be happier with our bike choices and with our choice of bike shop."--Jim A. review of Bike World

Customer could not be happier--WOW! This hits the core of bicycle shops and the core of a thriving business. 

As he states he not only bought one, but two--Was the service  that good? I would say yes.

I sometimes go to Home Depot and buy paint, then I walk out with a brush, tape, edger and other items I need.

This bike shop understands the customer, gives the customer what they need, service the customer as a person for hom will return after the business shines their experience on them.

It is like a ZAP of lighting, as an author once said--customers can feel the electricity of the shop--the passion of the staff and the knowledge they have obtained

I love bicycle shops--small business oriented, a cozy setting--but they deliver a huge engagement.

Customer experience---Giving customer superior service----giving more than they expect! A+++++++

"The boys from Zipp and SRAM will be at our shop this Thursday to offer a great chance to demo some wheels and discuss all the latest toys!"

"Clif Bar will be joining us for our Thursday Night Group Ride tonight at 6pm. Possible swag and goodies before the ride leaves." 

As many of you are aware I am a raving fan of my local bicycle shop--but more than that, I am a huge evangelist for superior customer service through creating an engaging customer experience.

Nearly two years ago now, I took off for Florida from Indiana on a 1033 mile trek with my next door neighbor. Two men in their 40's, having never done this before; going for causes such as cancer and literacy. We decided to take this trip to challenge ourselves, to step out of our comfort zone, both of us athletes back in our day--Coaching youth sports and doing Insanity on my part and he racquetball and over 40 baseball league today.

I have overseen major events and worked alongside many great companies when handling events such as Super Bowl, Indianapolis 500, Notre Dame football, Iron-Man events, Indiana State Fair and so on--I have worked over Labor Day weekend, July 4th, Memorial Day, Christmas day, Easter and other holidays with previous company's that depended on those day to bring in a huge percentage of their yearly income. I have worked alongside young men and women whom sacrificed those holidays for the good of the company--having known those days were apart of doing business. I have dealt with young college grads, as well as hired freshman students, giving them a real taste of what a big person job feels like. 

I love and enjoy the rubixcube--I have never solved it once in my life---but I had it in my house as a teenager, always trying my best to solve it.....That is what customer service is to me. It is the art and craft of never giving up on a customer, never once taking them for granted---as well as staff and that is where my story begins.

Leadership to me is one whom does not need to have a name badge that says owner---a badge that says I am in charge....Leadership is a quality that is in all of us.Some of us are aware of this trait, others need to transformed through positive leadership.  Leadership principles and qualities is what I saw at my local bicycle shop. Boldness, servant-hood, character and so on.

Excellent customer service, which creates a positive customer-store relationship is one with a staff that is cheered on by the store owner to get into the thick of it. A owner  who encourages and solidifies leadership values and ethics of good character has a booming business and that is what I found at my local bicycle shop......

It is not only here--it is ALL over the world; bike shops are the local farmers market--they are connecting with us through passion, bond, knowledge of product, no robots, no pushing and shoving with staff, people whom get out of the seat to say hello---people who are happy to be there and are happy to see you--people willing to share their story to encourage you to ride a bike, to buy a TT bike or upgrade to a biker MTB.  

The pictures above, as well as the quotes are from  my local bicycle shop.....They are giving customers a taste and an experience of more than just money exchanging hands---the shop is connecting with the community of riders. They are educating customers, riders, commuters with nutrition and what is new in the world of cycling---two times a week they have 200+ riders out and about hitting the pavement, creating a customer interaction that is out of this world---it is not just a Black Friday event, it is an every week event the store provides its customers.....it is not a back-to-school sale we see, or a Super Bowl add generating traffic to come in the store---they are truly displaying customer-store interaction to the 100000th power...

Good customer service is in HIGH DEMAND---we want it so bad we will drive hours out of our way to get it.....Bike shops are doing this and we in business can learn from them---go to your local shop this weekend and see what I am talking about---look up your local shop and read reviews, read the paper and see what rides and events are taking place for charity and leisure. 

Customer service at bike shop is a experience

-- the process of doing and seeing things and of having things happen to you

--skill or knowledge that you get by doing something

--the length of time that you have spent doing something (such as a particular job)

These three statements are the key findings under the word Experience. 

I love Panera Bread---I always have a exceptional experience with my wife and kids when we eat there.

I leave fulfilled, full and the environment was awesome--so we go back again and again---repeat customer.

The same thing goes for my local bicycle shop--every single time I am there; I feel engaged with the staff, I feel their passion and their zest for the World of bicycles.

 After deciding to take up biking for fun and exercise, my wife and I went to BE to get our first bikes. The experience couldn't have been better. Noah greeted us as we walked in, dropped what he was doing, and was very knowledgeable and helpful in picking out the best bikes for us. His boss took over at one point and helped us pick out the exact bikes we needed and fitted the bikes to us. He even went to his warehouse to get a slightly better fitting bike for my wife. Before the day was done his whole team would pitch in where needed to swap out necks, saddles, etc to make sure the bikes were perfect. We didn't throw a ton of money at them as we're just starting, but they treated us like we did. That experience plus the free tune-ups for life will definitely have us going back for any of our biking needs in the future. Ken M. Bicycle Experience. Colorado Springs, CO via Google Review. 5 star review. 

So the next time you need a bike--bike parts, head up to your local bicycle shop---they WILL awe you with an experience.

Small business---bike shops connect with people.

What is about small business that attracts so many customers?

What is about small business that customers WILL NOT hit them up upon a purchase?

The community feeling  is the number #1 reason if you ask me on why people shop there.

Why they don't shop there, is the backing of a major advertisement guru....We don't see them on T.V., on a NASCAR sponsorship, People magazine, prime-time news etc......

However upon entering a small business or niche shop we the customer feel the vibrant atmosphere-- thriving; it is a living , breathing thing.

My dentist is a good example--she sponsors local little league teams, sponsors social events for schools and we can even see her advertise in the local community magazine---other than that no other advertising.

Why do I go there????? She is a small business that is connecting,  her to the local community and is boooooming with new customers---I was on a waiting list for over 65 days just to do a routine teeth cleaning. WHY??? Easy, she gives more attention to me, my daughter and my wife....She connects with me, she goes to the same events as I, her kids go to the same school, same community events, we shop at the same store, we have similar interests and the list keeps going.

The same thing is true of my local bicycle shop--they bond with me, share knowledge with me....Eat at the same restaurant as I do, go to local cleaners as I do....They know the lay of the land, for they live here.

My bicycle shop is a small business, but it is so sought after for more than bikes--community rides, charity events, in store product information on evening rides as big as 200+ riders from beginners to the advanced.

I'm all done taking my bike back to the "big box" sporting goods store that i bought it from. This guy knows his stuff, and you can tell the shop has been there for years. It's nice to be able to talk to the guy that's doing your tune ups and repairs, instead of just watching a store employee wheel it back behind closed doors and hoping that it's fixed when you pick it up. Hooray for the small guy!!   Ray Taksar Bicycles---Hartford, CT. Via Google Review. 

This review nails it--it is the 180 difference that I have been talking about when it comes to the cycling world--we are connected with them, we see first hand what transpires---no back swinging doors, no back room jargon, no dollars wasted---we are right there in the thick of it with them, side by side......I love my bike shop and they support me and I them. 

If you want bicycle parts go to a bicycle shop----not a auto shop. Customer service!

I find it very humorous, yet so true in today's world---easy and simple, cheap and fast.......I want it NOW!

I will take the easy route, the quickest route---yet, almost always it back fires on us.

Take for example this simple picture above---a van with a hitch and a bike rack....Looks so easy, yet to some it maybe the hardest contraption ever. We think van, hitch lets go to auto shop.....They understand the assembly of this item.

Now lets read the review below and determine why people; customers go to bicycle shops second instead of first.

 Imagine if you will, having a hitch on your vehicle and wanting to put a bike rack on it. Seems to be a simple thing, correct? So I went on down to a local Auto parts shop, bought what I thought I required and you know what? I wasted me money. Although the rack was sturdy. It wiggled like crazy. I did not feel like my bike was safe. And that is very important to me.

Today I walked into Syracuse Bicycle for the very first time. First off it is a full service shop with a great range of products. The staff is friendly and extremely knowledgeable. My fear was how to keep my bike secure. That was taken care of so simply and kindly. I now have a perfect rack for traveling to keep my bike secure.

Thank you Syracuse Bicycle.  Claudette G. via Google Review on Syracuse Bicycle. Syracuse, N.Y. 

Above happens ALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL  the time. Why! Because we as customer or DYI weekend warriors feel everything will be fine and I can handle it.

Yes, we can! Yes, I can do it!  I wrote my first book back in 2011, but I did not do it alone. I had an editor, publishing company, another editor, cover designer, proof-reader and the manuscript was reviewed intensively by two writers after I submitted my work. Before the book was completed and ready for release the book had been in the hands of over 20 experts in the filed of publishing.

Nothing is simple and easy......Yes a bike rack and a hitch appear to be easy, simple, yet as the reviewer explained she had to seek out the experts of guidance and knowledge.

So as a consumer why not head up to the store who deals with the accessories we are looking for and eliminate the first costly step. 

Bicycle shops are created and opened for a reason--the owner has the passion and the desire for the sport and is willing to share those with patrons.  

A new seat simple--go to bike shop.

A new derailleur--go to bike shop.

A new bike--go to shop.

Want to get a TT Bike---head up to shop and check them out.

Need a new bell for little Timmy's bike--go to bike shop.

No more juggling around and hitting up different stores for different items---most bike shops carry all the amenities needed for the cycling world--if not they can/will order them in for you.

I am a huge advocate for small business and the passion we find in them.

Next time you need a bike widget or trinket or item---don't go to the quickest, go to the pro's, plus you keep the community environment strong with local small business. 

Empower Employees----customer service---bicycle shops

Keep calm everything is going to be alright---sounds like a song from The Who--Tommy.

But this is so true in the world of small business, owners can't be there 24/7--so true in the world of bicycle shops.

I am a huge advocate as many of you know for bicycling and the rising demand of superior customer service.

Almost two years ago I headed down to Florida on an adventure of a life time, cycling for cancer from Indiana to Orlando.

However I had NO clue as to what cycling entailed; what steps to take, what helmet to buy, what carbon-fiber meant, titanium frame, Zipp, Cannondale, derailleur, white lighting oil and so on.

Empowering people came into play, the staff of a local bicycle shop kept delivering when I headed up there with questions. They steered me into saving money. Why buy that when you don't need it, money saved on my part was a loss on theirs....But I kept coming back in, spending money and gaining knowledge.

ALL the employees were empowered by the owner to make good, sound, customer oriented decisions without seeking out advice from the owner--the owner trusted them and empowered them to lead his small business without being present.

I made it to Orlando on keen corrections, advise and knowledge delivered by a staff whom was lead by a owner who believed in them---

He was a cheerleader of the finest quality, encouraging his employees to engage with customers and help them with confidence.

I am a loyal fan of my bicycle shop here in Indiana, and this philosophy will create a better, fulfilling , engaged community among the staff. A strong BOND!!!!

Bike shop --- more than a sale, an experience and friendship.

Buying online vs a store----where do you go????

Well to tell you the truth I do both, I can't tell a lie.

I am a huge 6PM fan, Zappos fan and of course Amazon as well.

However, what do I buy online vs going to the store?

I have bought toiletries online, jeans online, backpacks(back to school), shoes, boots, snacks--well basically small stuff that I know will all work out in the end...

Now, when it comes to items I don't know very much about--I hit the brick and mortar store---Best Buy, Dick's, Target, Barnes and Noble and an array of others.

Why--I like to see first hand what I am buying--computer, must gain knowledge and the only way is to be on hand with the staff at Best Buy---insulating my house, I better head up to Home Depot and ask questions--get a feel of what all is needed, feel good about my decision and gain a new perspective on the project I am going to tackle.

The BIKE shop next to my house is the same--I will head up there and talk about carbon-fiber bikes, weekly schedules for rides around town, gain knowledge about new products. I see the new shoes, helmets, tubes, tires, stems. I speak to the staff and they shed light on my needs.

The one thing that stands out about brick and mortar to me is the interaction between me and the store--customer service and positive interaction that transpires while I am there--I am a loyal customer towards certain stores, because they put me first. They just don't point and say aisle 4 and walk away--

Here is a review of a bike shop that resonates with me and the millions whom buy local vs online.

"So much better than buying online. Great at meeting your exact needs and good salespeople, but they don't mind you coming to the shop just to hang out."  Joe K. Via Google reviews on La Dolce Velo Bicycle Shop. San Jose, CA. 

The review nails it--customer feeling the bond of the business, receiving so much more than just a sale or transaction. 

Bike shop program--rewarding customers---FREE STUFF, $$$$$$$'s add up.

FREE----what is that???? Everything comes at a cost, but what if the cost was eaten by the business to create a program geared (no pun intended) towards the customer.

We see this all the time with major stores across the U.S.---  Kroger, Marsh, Ford, Jiffy-lube,7-11, Circle K, Firestone and a ton more...

Earning points, double coupons-- the hits just keep coming if you return, you the customer are rewarded.

Well the same thing happens at bicycle shops--spend a few bucks, get something for free.

Items, people love them--but what about good old fashion customer service where people come first before the dollar--small business, like a bike shop are giving out left and right. A huge market as bikes are these days, bicycle shops are booming---but it takes customers to keep the doors open--so why not start and furnish a reward program.

Bike parts are expensive--and this bike shop shows us how customers are being rewarded for returning--but people only return for one reason and one reason only--awesome customer service....

Look at this link and be amazed, as I was.......Bike shops are competitive, but more community minded than a mega store--look and see what all you get...

http://mikesbikes.com/articles/peloton-club-pg1130.htm

Bike Shop--puts customer first....

Putting people first....What does that slogan, saying even mean?

In the small business world it means everything......It means you come second as an owner. It means your customers and patrons foremost, must come first in a competitive world.

As we drive around the local community this weekend---take the time and look around, be observant in your surroundings. Look at all the little niche shops all over the place in your back yard.

We don't have to drive downtown, drive to the mega-mall. We can gather our needs in our community.

Local shops are your neighbors, college friends, high-school classmates engaging in entrepreneurship and having a local impact financially.

I love my local bicycle shop as I have stated, but why? Because they live here next to me, they know the local schools, the ins and outs of the community and they are engaged with me in all aspects of conversation.

"Best bike shop in Knoxville Bar none. Its a culture to these guys not just a job. They actually have a passion for bikes and mountain biking and it shows in their work. I've got a Santa Cruz Superlight that they have serviced for years and my girlfriend got a Juliana last fall and its the best bike she has ridden by far. They don't just sell you a bike and push you out the door, they build the bike around you as a rider. I wont go anywhere else." Luke M. via Google Review on Harper's Bike Shop---Knoxville, TN. 

Small business is a passion for a trinket that hits the soul, it is a trinket that owners are so passionate about they want you to feel the same feelings as they do--they love it so much they went into business to provide a service to you and make a few bucks off the knowledge they have. Putting people first, money second is the key to this bicycle shop as noted by the reviewer. 

As you go out and hit the pavement this weekend for the bike ride--stop by your local bicycle shop and see first hand what I and millions of other bicycle folks are talking about--make a new friend, create a new home away from home and get in on the local bicycle rides with the stores---it is fun, exciting and you will learn a few tips that will make your riding experience that much better.