Share THIS: 10 Bike Shops To Support

Share bikes are all the rage (and controversy,) but as dozens of lime green, orange, and yellow app-controlled bikes get dumped onto city streets by the U-Haul load, how’s it affecting your local mom-and-pop shop? Sure, we have some of the best bike shops in San Diego, but, are they able to flourish amongst piles of dockless bikes?

Image: silent hill/imagine china

While some neighborhood shops say bike sharing cuts into sales and repair revenue, others say it’s the perfect vehicle (pun intended) for introducing new users, or riders, to the market. In theory, these new bikers with eventually buy their own bikes via local businesses while putting more pressure on the city to become more bike-friendly — which would also benefit local shops.

Either way, the narrative should not change: SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL BIKE SHOP. With that being said, here are some of our favorites in no particular order:

10. Adams Avenue Bicycles

Whether you’re a competitive racer, a causal commuter, or a beginner, Adam Avenue Bicycles specializes in bikes that are perfect for Uptown San Diego neighborhoods. A family owned business, every customer that enters the shop is treated with attention and respect.

9. Black Mountain Bicycles

Black Mountain Bicycles has been a part of the San Diego cycling community for 40+ years.  Proudly serving cyclists from all parts of San Diego County, they’ve helped pioneer mountain biking locally since 1982 — that alone qualifies them as one of the best bike shops in San Diego.

9860 Hibert St
Ste C1
San Diego, CA 92131

Phone number: (858) 566-0710

Photo Courtesy of Inky’s Facebook

8. Inky’s Bike Shop

Since 1955, San Diego families have been going to Inky’s to buy their child’s first bike, pick out Mom’s new cruiser, or tune up Grandpa’s classic 10-speed. Now, the next generation of extreme scooter riders are rolling to Inky’s for parts and service.

7. SD Wheel Works

SD Wheel Works showcase the most innovative brands and accessories to perfectly tailor your experience both on and off a bike.  Cruise over for some new parts, cool accessories, or a tune up. Also, they have a sweet mini ramp for you to shred.

6. Pedal Pushing Bicycle Shop

With over 80+ years in combined experience, PPBS gets the job done right. Open since 1973, a small shop atmosphere with friendly customer service. Same or next day turnaround for repairs, they can fix anything from flat tires to tune ups and overhauls.

6969 El Cajon Blvd
San Diego, CA 92115

Phone number: (619) 460-0760

Photo Courtesy of Revolution Bike Shop

5. Revolution Bike Shop

Located in Solana Beach, Revolution Bike Shop is no ordinary bicycle shop. Catering to cycling enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels, this store sells as much stoke as it does bikes, parts and accessories. Recognized by the National Bike Dealers Association, RBS was also recognized as one of the best bike shops in San Diego by Competitor magazine. Impressive.

4. Cal Coast Bicycles

Serving the Bicycle Community in Normal Heights, North Park, University Heights , Hillcrest, Cal Coast Bicycles specializes in high-end models, but is receptive and helpful to new riders and families in the mid-town area of San Diego. Added bonus, they demo some awesome mountain-bikes.

3. Poway Bicycle

Both Poway Bicycle and The Bike Shop at Del Sur — same family owners — have become community fixtures in North County with their friendly customer service, repairs, and selection of family, mountain, and performance bikes. “If there’s anything I’ve learned from corporate America, it’s the importance of balancing your long hours at work with doing something you truly enjoy,” says owner Luis Ibarra, “go out and ride a bike.” 

2. Ye Olde Bicycle Shoppe

Great Customer service and a friendly, honest, and knowledgeable staff. Your consummate neighborhood bike shop, they build, tune up, repair, and restore classic and modern bikes. Cruise in and join the Ye Olde Bicycle Shoppe family with the fastest service and some of the lowest prices in town.

6195 University Ave
San Diego, CA 92115

Phone number: (619) 582-4300

Photo Courtesy of Bicycle Warehouse Facebook

1. Bicycle Warehouse

Formed in 1992 as Mountain Bike Warehouse, Bicycle Warehouse is one of the best bike shops in San Diego — especially from a growth perspective. Family owned and operated, the company has become one of the nations top bicycle retailers over the years. Without losing focus, their mission has remained constant: to inspire your passion to ride so you enjoy more fitness, freedom and fun in your life. YEW!