Best Bike Shops In Chicago
The Federal Highway Administration's Section 217 of Title 23 of the U.S. Code now calls for the integration of bicycling and walking into the transportation mainstream. What a concept! This will mean more bike-friendly cities everywhere, with Chicago being on on the cutting edge. Drop the daily grind and glide down to one of these excellent bike shops for your two-wheeled needs and dreams.
Turin Bicycle Chicago
4710 N. Damen Ave.
Chicago, IL 60625
(773) 271-3141
www.turinbicycle.com
This Ravenswood shop has been lifting posteriors onto bike seats since 1965 so owners Lee Katz and Alan Fine have heard, seen and discussed it all when it comes to bicycles. "Our staff is what really makes us great," Katz says. "We're not going to try and sell you something that you don't want or need. We're going to help you find what's best for you." It's all here from handlebar grips, pedal options, tires, chains, helmets, clothing, bikes, events and wizardry turning heaps into mean machines.
Boris Western Bike
9777 W. Grand Ave.
Franklin Park, IL 60131
(847) 455-5530
www.boriswesternbikestore.com
Believe it or not, the sun does not rise and set in Bucktown, Wicker Park, Pilsen, Lakeview and Roscoe Village. This store opened in 1952 as a Western Auto Store, selling car parts and bikes, and by 2000 it was exclusively bikes. Jim and wife, Roberta Boris, offer local, friendly, helpful service and expert advice in selecting the right bike just for you. Boris sells mainly KHS brand bikes and Free Agent bikes for kids. Expect mountain bikes, beautiful cruisers and some nifty road bikes, too. A big part of the business is service to keep all bikes rolling along. The shop does major tune-ups and all repairs at affordable prices.
Gary's Cycle Shop
6317 N. Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60660
(773) 743-4201
www.garyscycleshop.com
You've got to love a place called "Gary's" and bikers adore supporting the indie bike shop that offers more knowledge and better service than the big box guys without a trace of upselling. Expect a tune-up in less time, at a lower cost and with more smiles. In addition to reasonable labor costs, bikes and parts are at nice price points, too.
Related: Best Place To Rent A Bike In Chicago
Cycle Bike Shop
1465 S. Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL 60605
(312) 987-1080
Need a flat fixed quickly and cheaply? Check. A good stock and variety of ready-made bikes? Check. Custom parts for a riding experience that your body enjoys? Double check. Great location in the South Loop in case you break down along the lakefront? You're in luck. Ask questions and get honest, friendly answers at Cycle Bike Shop.
Kiddles Sports
258 Market Square
Lake Forest, IL 60045
(847) 234-0025
www.kiddlessports.com
Kiddles Sports is a full-service bike and sporting goods store carrying rides and equipment as well as apparel, athletic shoes and general sporting goods. Started by Ron Shlifka over 45 years ago and now run by his son, Jay Shlifka, and his sons, Aric and Lee, Kiddles' customer service has set it apart from the corporate dealers. "Here, product knowledge is mixed with the precision of an anatomical custom fit for every person," says Jay. "The sport is so much more enjoyable on the correct bike when matching your particular riding style in a perfectly fitted sitting position, which we take pride in doing."
Jacky Runice has been a columnist with the Daily Herald Chicago since grunge music and flannel was the new black. Her fingers and gray matter have been busy as travel editor of Reunions Magazine; penning a column that was syndicated around the nation via Tribune Media Services. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
