Bike shops

Tel

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An opportunity has reared it's head for me to run a little cycle shop type thing. Thinking about specialising in used parts mainly focusing on road. Few repairs, servicing, etc otherwise just carry on as I am.

I'd really appreciate opinions on what is important to you from a bike shop. Some of it is obvious some I would think not....

I'm in a shall I, shan't I stage of thought process.
 
Brilliant - i'd love to do that...

here's what i like:
1) Friendly staff
2) time just "to browse"
3) quality items
4) being able to chat to staff
5) somewhere to park my bike!

here's what i don't like

1) grumpy, poker faced staff
2) bike snobs
3) generic componentry
4) mass produced bikes


the best bike shop i've ever been to was in Berkley, California - full of friendly, down to earth staff, pegorettis, chesterfield sofas, rubber plants, retro projects, wooden floors, coffee, rare spares.... can't remeber the name of it though!
 
You'd be missing a whole market if you didn't include some retro mtb parts too. Don't forget, a lot of people are 'cyclists', I know plenty of guys with road, cross and mtb's, retro and modern.

Plenty of stock is important, there is nothing worse that one of those generic 'cycle stores' with rows of new (expensive) bikes, three tyres, two saddles and several tonnes of drinks / nutrition.

Friendly helpful staff are a must.
 
Am I the only one who likes lots of bits to touch. Many bike shops have a row of bikes and clothing from 1 maker. I know its all about who gives good prices and range but it doesn't encourage me. I prefer the old fashioned shop with stuff everywhere, a workshop you can see with lots of tools and even a notice board for clubs and sales.
Learn to build wheels well, cater for all types and don't be too snotty to kids who want to borrw things. Keep a cheap set of allen keys from the pound shop for that.
Accept that many people will browse with you then buy from the web so maybe avoid that stock which is most widely discounted where possible.
Advertise and try to be visible.
 
Is this going to be an extension of a hobby or are you going to rely on it to pay the mortgage ?

The two are completely different IMHO.

Shaun
 
I like shops where the staff are friendly, and willing to accomodate my sometimes strange requests.

The biggest turn off for me is being treated like I have no idea, or even being told I am completely wrong, when I know I'm right and have far more idea than whoever is telling me otherwise!

good luck with the project Tel!
 
foz":3avoqshr said:
The biggest turn off for me is being treated like I have no idea, or even being told I am completely wrong, when I know I'm right and have far more idea than whoever is telling me otherwise!

^This was a key point for me today, I won't go into the details but was treated like I was an absolute idiot, even when asking for a specific product in a specific size. Needless to say I won't be returning to that shop.

I like to chat bikes with the staff... friendly knowledge is what I, and I'm sure other appreciate. Also when the staff do a little extra when sourcing bits and bobs, making the consumer feel like they are looked after.

Keep us updated Tel!
 
Thanks guys.

The shop* is very small although has the possibility of expansion if things go well. Stock will be mainly used parts as I do now just have everything out on display. With a commercial premises I should be able to open trade accounts which I cannot currently do as I am home based.

The shop will be part time unfortunately as I continue with my full time job too. I would love to make it my career and that will continue to be my aim.

I find most bike shops rather boring to be in I'm hoping to have more of an Aladdins cave for roadies (occassional retro MTB would be good too I agree)

Anyway thanks for all the suggestions they've been a great help.


(it doesn't have a shop front and is not in town, more of a garage/ lockup really :) but in a semi commercial location)
 
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