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A Nearly New Shop
Category: Shopping Sporting Goods Bikes Bikes
3826 N Broadway St(between Grace St & Halsted St)
Chicago, IL 60613
Neighborhood: Lakeview
(773) 525-0692
- Nearest Transit:
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Sheridan (Red Line)
Addison-red (Red Line)
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 12 pm - 8 pm
- Price Range:
-
$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
About This Business:
Whether the customer is here for a lock, tune up, new bike, or even a fresh cup of coffee, The Bike Lane is here to service the Chicago biking… read more »
111 reviews for A Nearly New Shop
Review Highlights
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"My roommate got a blue Schwinn rode bike for $150." In 20 reviews -
"...price, and it comes with a 60-day parts and labor warranty." In 3 reviews -
"but they are all super super nice and helpful." In 5 reviews
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111 reviews in English
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Review from Kimberly H.
Chicago, IL
2/20/2012
I have a mountain bike, but it is very awkward and clunky riding in the city. I decided I needed to purchase a road bike, and found amazing reviews on A Nearly New Shop. Walked over to the shop today, and tried out some bikes. I immediately new I had found the right bike after test riding a couple of bikes. It was a perfect fit, and I now have a new "used" bike to tool around the city on! The staff was extremely helpful, and very friendly.
The gentleman that assisted me, I did not get his name, although I wish I would have because he is a HEARTTHROB!!! ;-) -
Review from Katharine S.
Chicago, IL
5/20/2012
Ding ding ding ding ding! We have a winner. The workers at this shop are quick, courteous, knowledgable, and friendly - no attitude, no pressure, just good service at a good price. After having work done on my bike at five different shops around the city, I've finally found a place I'll be happy to frequent. A+.
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Review from Pablo S.
Chicago, IL
5/9/2012
Awesome service!!
I got a great price on a used 59" Miyata bike, they let you try them, set them up for your perfect fit and If you have any problems with it they will fix without making you wait. -
Review from Greg M.
Near North Side, Chicago, IL
5/9/2012 1 Check-in Here
They are honestly genuinely into bikes which is awesome. They were direct and helped me pick a perfect bike for my needs. You can't beat the price, and if you can please let me know :p They also took the time to help explain to me the little details about the extra equipment I got.
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Review from Philippe G.
Chicago, IL
3/22/2012
This is a great little shop to go for repairs - super nice, chill guys that dont mind taking the time to explain the fix. While it does seem like an unorganized garage at first glance, it will not dissapoint once you get in there. The (only) place to bring your bike in the city where the staff wont talk down to you like a little child. Highly Recommend.
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Review from Laura K.
Chicago, IL
8/30/2011
When it comes to buying a "new" used bike, there's a pretty wide range of prices and quality, not to mention lots of shops to buy them from. A Nearly New is by FAR the best in the "new" used bike market. I had a wonderful experience when I bought my bf's bike there. Jim, the guy who helped me, took his time showing me bikes in my price range, and offered to fix one they had there wating for a part replacement. On the spot, with out hesitation. And, he stayed late to do it. The bike looks and rides great, and they have a two month warrantee, even on flats. I'm so happy I took a chance on this place, and will not go anywhere else for my future bike needs. In fact, there's a good chance I'll get myself a "new" bike from there in the very near future.
Thanks guys for making my bike buying experience a good one.
One more thing to note, Cash ONLY. -
Review from Mike S.
Chicago, IL
8/23/2011
Great prices on some pretty awesome finds. My bike came clean, with brand new cables and tires, and a 2 month parts and service warranty to boot.
That came in handy. About a month in, I was having brake cable issues so I tried to make the adjustment myself and screwed up the rear cable. Took it in, and 20 minutes later, I had a new brake cable and adjusted brakes.
These guys are a refreshing business. If you're looking for the hottest new Trek bike you saw some TV show actor riding in Men's Health magazine, this isn't your spot. If you're someone who appreciates the vintage bikes and is looking to get into cycling at a price that will pay for itself in a couple months of less CTA use, this is your shop.
Shop here. Support upcycling (the concept of reusing things instead of wasting them... not a cycling term), support local business, and support good, affordable exercise. -
Review from Mara S.
Chicago, IL
7/29/2011
I just bought a used road bike here last weekend and have been pretty happy with it. You have to get to the store right when they open because the bikes are all claimed within about an hour.
The men that work at the store are very helpful and want to see you on the right bike for you. This is a no thrills shop, but there's decent selection on used bikes if you get there early enough. I didn't get there early enough the first day I came in, but the next time I got there with their shipment and I had my choice of bikes.
They do really fast work, but I road my bike ~25 miles the first weekend I had it and didn't have any problems. There's also a 30 day warranty on the bike, so if anything needs to be tweaked, they'll do it for you.
Definitely worth checking out if you're into saving some bucks on a used bike. -
Review from Rick M.
Chicago, IL
6/6/2011
I purchased a bike from here not too long ago - a blue 1970s or early 80s cruiser. It's the perfect height and size and there haven't been any major problems with it. Whenever something tiny came loose or needed to be repaired quickly, the gentlemen who work here were more than willing to take a look and do it without questioning or charging.
They really are always willing to help and they're very friendly, too. Not to mention, their bikes are some of the best prices I've seen in Chicago. Excellent deals on truly good looking bikes.
I am glad to be a customer here. As someone else said, bring cash - no cards. -
Review from Arlene B.
Chicago, IL
11/18/2011
Several weeks ago, I took my 41-year-old Gitane to Nearly New for a tune-up. I was down to two gears, because the chain kept slipping entirely off the gears, so that I had to take the rear wheel off to make it work, and something that I could not identify was rubbing and making it difficult to pedal.
A day later, I picked up my bike and it was working like a Swiss watch! Riding my bike has not been so much fun in years!
This bike is my main transportation...to the grocery store and everything else. The tune-up has made everything better. Part of the pannier attachment system had gotten misplaced, and they fabricated replacements, on the spot.
I must state that before I went to Nearly New I went to Johny Sprockets for a tune-up. They said, essentially, that while they would be happy to take my money, many of the adjustments included in a tune-up could not be done because my bike was such a piece of junk that the parts would break.
Translation: they didn't want to work on an old bike.
Smooth operation continues! I can't recommend Nearly New enough! They are great!, The people are nice (not snobs), their work is great, and the prices are great! What more could you ask for? -
Review from Benjamin W.
Chicago, IL
7/3/2011
Anybody that gives these guys a bad review is pretentious and needs to go to somewhere else.
These guys are really nice and don't overcharge where as other bike shops in the city charge unreal amounts of money for tune ups that take them less than 10 minutes to do without parts. Everyone here is approachable and knowledgeable which is a big plus. I bought a great used bike here. It's a good place to start searching for a bike. I'm happy to give my business to these guys. -
Review from Brandon V.
Chicago, IL
1/22/2011
I had borrowed a friend's bike for a day and, of course, something went horribly wrong with it while I had it, and I was obliged to have it repaired.
It was a Japanese bike, purchased used from this shop by my friend, so at his suggestion I took it there to have it checked out. The shop is tiny, unbelievably unorganized and dirty, and the folks who work inside aren't a cut above this assessment.
I had to wait about five minutes while they finished some other business before they came up to help me when I brought the bike in. They labeled it with a piece of masking tape with my name and number written on it, gave me an estimate, and told me they'd call when it was finished (which they said would be a few days).
A week later, they still hadn't called, so I called to check on it. I held on the phone while the person who answered (presumably) looked for the bike and then came back on the line again and wondered if I knew the name of the person I left the bike with. I didn't, so he put me on hold again, and finally came back to let me know that, yes, the bike was ready to be picked up. The total was close to the estimate I had received.
I went the next morning to pick it up, and again, they had no idea where the bike was. They asked me to walk through the shop and try to find it myself (which is rather like finding a particular hunk of metal in a junkyard, and since it wasn't my bike, I barely even knew what it looked like anyway).
I finally found it, paid the reasonable cost of repair, and ran for my life, never to return. I have a bike of my own now, and if I need service, I may have to pay more, but it will be worth it to go to a shop where I'm sure they won't lose my bike in their own filth.Listed in: Chicago's Least Wanted
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Review from Justin D.
Chicago, IL
11/16/2011
Affable staff, good mechanics, reasonable prices. The store is cramped and dirty, but the service and prices make up for the ambiance. They can typically fix smaller repairs such as flat tires and truing a wheel in a short amount of time.
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Review from Josh H.
Chicago, IL
5/28/2011
I can't say enough good things about A Nearly New Shop.
This was my 1st stop on my hunt for a new bike. In my quest to be more green, I wanted to stop riding the L to work and start biking.
I came in on a Friday and found a bicycle I was interested in. It still needed to be tuned up so they took down my name and number and told me they would call when we it was ready. The following Thursday, I called to check in since I had not heard anything. They told me I could come in 2 hours later to try it out.
However, when I arrived it still was not ready. While I waited, they suggested I try a couple of other bikes and I am so glad I did. They had a Fuji that had just come in at the same price and it was an even better bike that the one I had set aside.
They let me test ride it and I was sold. I wanted to test ride the original still, but they began to have issues with it during the tune up and would not let me because "They don't want to sell bikes to people unless they are sure they are perfect and will not have issues".
My bike did not come with safety brakes, but I was told they could add them in 20 min at a later date if I choose to.
They could not have been more helpful. I could not recommend enough. -
Review from Kristin R.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 8/21/2010
OK so it has been a year now since I've had my bike and I've absolutely fallen in love with it. I know that sounds dramatic but I just love love love this bike. It's old, and used, and didn't cost me very much money, but I'd be heart broken if anything were to happen to it.
I just took it in to Roscoe Village bikes for a tune up (first one since buying it from nearly new). They put on new tires, new brake pads, and had to fix a brake wire that I messed up because I had the handle bars too high. But aside from that, they told me my bike is in REALLY great shape and that it would last me for many years to come. So, that obviously made me feel even better about my purchase from nearly new and so happy that my bike has years left on it.
All in all, I'm very satisfied with nearly new. They even fixed my bike last summer when I got in a little accident and had to have a part replaced. I'm happy with my bike and would point any new bike rider in this direction. It's a great place to buy an inexpensive, yet quality bike, before you spend the big bucks on something a bit fancier.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/12/2009
After a grueling 2 days of bike shopping around the city, I ended up finding the bike for me at A… Read more »
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Review from rhonda p.
Chicago, IL
6/6/2011
Great shop, very knowledgeable, and awesome prices. I will say the place is very claustrophobic and you must bring cash.
Cheers -
Review from J W.
Chicago, IL
10/24/2011
Chicago is a great town for cyclists and there are a number of great shops to choose from. A Nearly New is my *top* choice for used bikes AND service. I bought my first used bike here(an early 80's Schwinn Traveller) 6 years ago. That bike was awesome. I rode year round through a couple of Chicago winters and only gave it up when I decided to start doing centuries for charity rides.
A couple of years and a stolen bike later, I brought my cheapie internet bike(Vilano) to Ron and the crew to have it tuned up.
The techs there were awesome and quickly identified a couple of things to fix including the lack of rim tape which saved me a flat tire down the road.
I came back a few days later to have a comfort-style riser bar installed. Not only did they cut it to custom length, they took the extra time to customize the brake lines to make sure there was enough length to accomodate the new height of the handlebars.
The point is, they take the time to do the job right, the techs are top notch and the price is right. Plus, Ron is awesome and obviously cares about bikes. And, as a bonus, he sounds like Morgan Freeman. Who wouldn't want their bike fixed by Morgan Freeman?? -
Review from Deborah W.
Chicago, IL
2/15/2012
The staff was awesome. I got a nice bike for a great price. If you are looking for a used bike, this place is where you need to go.
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Review from Nico M.
Chicago, IL
5/30/2008 ROTD 9/25/2008
I had a Columbia Trailhead mountain bike that I got from somewhere for cheap or something like that. It was whatever, but I desired a road bike. I walked by last night and saw the bike I wanted. It was a green Schwinn road bike. I had tried to repair my Columbia bike and basically effed it up even more.
So I talked to one of the workers and he told me to come in as soon as they opened the next day because of Critical Mass they were going to be busy.
So I was there this afternoon at 12pm when they opened. I told him what was wrong with my current bike and he told me how much it would cost to fix and that they really don't deal with mountain bikes because they are all plasticky and yadda yadda. So I took a look around and the green as well as silver bikes were the two that I adored. The silver one had been sold, so back to my initial want; the green one. He changed the wheels, heightened the seat, polished it up and I was all set. $150 quick for a beautiful bike. Plus 2 months of free service if anything goes wrong with the it. They were too nice..I love this place.
So my old bike..haha..I was walking and this guy was staring at me with it and I asked him if he wanted it...
Him:"what u selling it?"
Me:" no you can seriously have it..."
Him:"what's wrong wit it?"..
Me:"ohh I broke the gears trying to fix it but 1..2.and 3 work..oh and the chain rubs and peddles wobble but it rides get on and try it out.."
Him:"oh shit man cool..I was wondering how I was gonna go get my check from work now I got a ride, thanks yo!"..
...he rode off..lol
I guess I made his day..with a broken but ride-able bike.. -
Review from Al D.
5/13/2009
Back on the trail in search of a bike to replace my stolen mountain bike, I decided to try this place, as I was in need of parts again as well.
I wouldn't go so far as to call it the "best bike shop ever," but their selection of unmolested and nearly-new touring bikes is impressive. I saw pristine bikes dating back to the 1970's with still-soft handlebar grips, untorn seats and nary a chip in their finishes. Plus unconverted to single-gear as well. A purist's delight.
They did have the part I needed, and the fact that they are open until 8 pm is amazing (most shops keep odd hours...like when you're at work).
However, I do have one gripe about A Nearly New Shop that prevents me from giving it five stars. I asked one of the assistants a simple question.
Me: "Have any mountain bikes?"
Assistant: (insert jaded snarl) "Neuoo."
Look, it's retail. I'm sure you all had a long day or whatever, but put aside the attitude and your personal views. There's actually customers who enjoy riding on more varied terrain than just a 2ft. wide bike lane. -
Review from Bethany J.
Chicago, IL
6/22/2008
I spent all day Saturday looking for a bike, and as impulsive and impatient as I am, I was dying when I didn't have a bike to ride home at the end of the day. I was about to buy something from Sports Authority, but then, an act of God, I got a call from one of my friends, who informed me that she JUST got back from getting a bike from this quaint little shop on Halsted. Everything she said was verbatim to the yelp review below- friendly workers, crammed space, designed used bikes perfect for you within a day or so. The funny thing is, her recommendation is linked back through a chain of about 5 people, each recommending the next. Thankfully, I became part of that chain and finally found myself a proud bike owner at the end of the day.
Let me first say, that I accidentally went to Kozy's first (the other bike shop on Halsted) and I was basically appalled by the high prices and mediocre service. Once I walked north 2 blocks and saw what looks like a junk yard of bikes, I knew I had found the place. I waited for a while, but I didn't mind, I was intrigued by watching the workers, and listening to their expertise and conversation with other customers. When I was finally up to the plate for service, the owner pulled out this bike that was obviously just perfect for me. He could tell that I was not experienced so he gave me a crash course on safety & security tips for the bike. It really means a lot to have that old fashioned customer service where the business actually has best intentions for you. I never felt like they were out for the dollar, rather trying to make me another happy Chicago cyclist.
I rode my bike home from the shop (about 3 miles) and i can't tell you how many bikes I spotted that I know have to be from this shop- your typical 1970's Schwinn roadster in various colors. All the used bikes on the streets of the Chi, my long chain of friend reviews, and the long line of yelp reviews to follow should be pretty good evidence that this is the place to be for bikes. I hope this review finds you before you spend a full day bike shopping at useless expensive places. -
Review from Stephanie K.
Chicago, IL
6/1/2008
Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newly-minted novice, Nearly New is the perfect place to pick up a vintage Schwinn, get something fixed, or just stop by to talk about bikes. The culture at this small, crowed and sometimes chaotic shop is that which breeds friendliness.
The shop itself is so jam-packed with frames, wheels, bikes, etc., that it's usually one person in, one person out. Quite literally, only one customer can be inside the shop at a time due to a lack of space.
Outside, you can always find someone to talk to while you're waiting. Several times throughout my visit, Ron & Jim stopped to help other customers or friends in the middle of working on my bike. But for some reason, it didn't bother me - and I actually kind of enjoyed it.
I chose a vintage 1971 raspberry-colored Schwinn cruiser. Since I'll be riding it to work, the rack on the back was a big selling point. Ron suggested that I get a good lock ($40 elsewhere, that he sells for $25) and even though I was $5 short, he said it was more important that I had a lock than it was for him to get his $5. Once I paid for it, Jim even added a bell! So if you hear a briiiiing, briiiiiing on the lakefront, it's probably me.
Before I left, Jim installed the lock and made sure I knew how everything worked. Despite being crazy-busy, these guys make you feel like you're the only person in the world. They take their time and tailor their instructions to your level of experience.
I'm the type of person who would rather have something old over something new any day, so Nearly New was right up my alley. If you're looking for an older bike with character that doesn't look a day over 10, this is the place to be. -
Review from Sharlene K.
Chicago, IL
4/5/2008
Personally, I've never been to the shop because any conversion work I do is off a bike from Working Bikes but . . . many of my friends who don't want to drop money on new bikes get their used conversion bikes here.
What they do is pick out a used a bike frame to your liking and then convert it to a single-speed. You could get a fixed rear wheel if you want to ride fixed gear, but the point is they do the conversion work for you. And it'll fit.
If you never take your bike up to the trails or another city, you DO NOT need multi-speeds. Chicago is the flattest city I've ever ridden a bike in and I've never changed a gear. The benefits of low-maintenance, low-cost of parts, and lower weight are more worthwhile than the benefits of multi-speeds.
Every bike I've seen come out here is one I don't think I could've done a better job myself. Occasionally I think I could've picked a better frame because sometimes they're rusted a bit too much or a little bent, but that's something in a steel frame that isn't bad like in an aluminum frame.
The warranty is basically extended maintenance on your bike which is dope considering it's a completely refurbished and converted bike.Listed in: Pedals On Your Pirate Ship
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Review from Kyle L.
Chicago, IL
6/26/2009
Nearly New: the new roller coaster attraction.
I purchased Flo, a gnarly red Shwinn roadster in Mid-May and fell immediately in love. Upon my first return from Nearly New back home to Wicker, I popped a flat; chalk it up to my inexperience in Chicago riding. Luckily, Nearly New gives you a 60-day parts and labor warranty when you purchase their bikes. Keep this in mind, folks, it's handy.
A few weeks later, after riding Flo an average of 10-15 miles daily, I noticed her rear section was giving me trouble. I biked 'er up to Nearly New to discover I'd achieved a broken axle. They fixed me up with a fresh back wheel care of said warranty, but on my way back I noticed the same problem; it had returned. I let a week go pass simply because I didn't have the time to return for a fix.
Yesterday I rolled back up with my bike, a front wheel damaged from a cab run-in (ma bad), the back wheel suffering from a repeat incident. Despite their 60 day parts and labour, they had me pay for the front wheel, which, all things considered, isn't the worst punishment I've been delivered. On the other hand, the warranty isn't specific: it says all parts and labor are covered for free within the sixty days.
I digress.
Charming and attractive bike fixer comes up and asks me what the issues are; I read him the diagnosis, he fixes 'er up (a good two hours, rawr), and I'm on my way. Flo goes smooth sailing, though I noticed a squeak in her front tire. Today, after having ridden her only from the shop home and a small, half mile ride to a book store last night, I noticed the back wheel moving around again. For a third time.
I cannot give Nearly New zero stars, because their warranty has proved extremely useful and their employees (save the owner, because he deals very little with the average-folk who come in) are helpful and moreover friendly. I can't give Nearly New five stars because twice now I've ridden up to get my back wheel/axle fixed to find it suffering the same problem less than 24 hours.
If I could do it all over again, I would've rationalized spending $100 more (circa $300) for a built-up bike at any number of shops in the area rather than riding up and finding the same problems occurring again and again. -
Review from Shana C.
5/23/2007
Everything said about A Nearly New Shop is true. Ron IS the shit. So is Jim. So is my GORGEOUS new drool worthy bike. It was under $200, and rides like a fast dream. Ron and Jim had no problem catering to my "I don't know about bikes and don't want to get jipped" attitude. He gave me an "extended warranty" for nothing, told me to come back anytime there's trouble, even after the warranty is up, and said that once I find the Tangerine handle bar tape I'm looking for, to bring it there and they'll do it for me. Jim didn't make fun of me when I asked for a kick stand, but told me about his first racing bike when he was 14; when he wanted a kick stand and safety brakes; then he gave me the best bike friendly route to take to ride home to the Uk. Village.
I'm going back just to chill with those guys many more times. -
Review from Lissa B.
Chicago, IL
9/17/2010
The people here are extremely knowledgeable about bikes, and their prices are great. I got an 80s road bike here for $150 and it was totally rehabbed to great condition. I took my boyfriend and best friend here to get bikes also, and they are both in love with their bikes.
They also do repairs and replaced the tubing in my tire for $10 when it popped a hole. If you're looking for a relatively inexpensive bike in good condition this is the place to go. -
Review from Travis J.
Evanston, IL
3/21/2010
So naturally I walked down the street on the wrong side, got lost, then realized it was on the other side, and almost walked past it again--definitely your basic understated place. Walked in, and my vision was filled with bicycles. Every single one of them was late 60s-early 80s, save for maybe one oddball 90s bike they all seemed embarassed about.
"Can I help you?" "Yeah, I'm looking for something to ride kinda short trips for classes and groceries and stuff" "Okay, well, the ones that should fit you pretty well are this *point*, those two *point*, and we could maybe get the seat up enough for this *point* one. Those are the original hybrids... is that what you had in mind?"
But the second bike he had pointed at, a green Schwinn Collegiate, had me at hello. I took a few bikes for a ride around the block(and found some muscles--I hadn't really ridden for years, aside from the 3 or so times I attempted to ride in Seattle.)
The bike is awesome, I couldn't be more happy with it. I probably could have gotten a similar ride a bit cheaper off CL, but probably their 2 month all-parts, all-labor goodness makes up the difference(well, I hope not, but maybe). They put some new brake pads and lines in while I hit up the ATM down the street(this is a cash-only joint), shook my hand, and I was on my way.
(One other small addition: They didn't have helmets in stock, or at least they didn't think they'd have any my size. I'll need to remedy this soon.) -
Review from Sarah K.
Chicago, IL
7/31/2007
Last March, I bought a bike. By May, I'd had enough with it. I started looking for a new bike everywhere, but I didn't want to spend an arm and a leg, and I wanted an old bike. No bells and whistles, just a bike with history. After a month of looking, I rode over and found the perfect bike. I've had hardly any problems with the bike, thanks to the thorough tune-up they gave before I bought it. The only time I've hit any bumps (get it? Like a bumpy road? Nevermind) was after the 2 month guarantee was over, and it's a pretty simple fix anyway.
The best part, though, was that not only did they have an awesome bike for me totally by chance, they knocked off part of the price for my old bike. Sure, it's a crappy bike and I was happy to get rid of it, but I actually just felt really good about getting rid of it. It's not the kind of bike they normally sell (they specialize in vintage Schwinns, I think), but they keep junky bikes around to sell to neighborhood kids for cheap. They also let the neighborhood kids, and kids from an orphanage not far away, work off the price of bikes. That might sound like kind of a shit deal to some people, but remember how awesome the freedom of a bike was when you were a kid (or now)? Helping kids get that feeling is an A+ in my book. -
Review from Whitney L.
Chicago, IL
7/19/2010
I went here on a suggestion of a friend who had purchased her bike from the shop a year before, and I'm incredibly glad I did.
I don't know anything about bikes. I bought a cruiser before I moved to Chicago and quickly realized it was too heavy of a machine to get me where I was going. My trip to NN was to get my first road bike, and just that I did.
I test rode a couple of bikes before falling in love with my vintage Schwinn- completely re-tuned and re-taped...everything. Quick, easy transaction with the nicest staff to back it up.
I had some chain problems within the first couple of weeks I was riding. Brought it back and they oiled it up, which was a quick fix but alas, a week later, same problem. Took it back and they replaced the links on the chain and voila, on my way.
My boyfriend also got his bike from this shop and also took it back due to some squeaky break problems with a quick fix. He also surprised me by stealing my bike while I was at work and taking it in to do a single speed conversion. He asked them to do it basically as quickly as possible and without complaint they worked it into their day and got it done hours before he expected it.
Great attitudes, great guys. My only complaint? I had a friend who took her bike in to get it fixed and they SOLD it. They compensated by giving her a newer, better bike...but still. -
Review from Andy S.
Chicago, IL
3/25/2008
I had stopped by Nearly New several times and looked around before finally taking the plunge and buying a new bike a few weeks ago.
After talking to Ron for a while, JIm came by and asked me what I was looking for, I explained and his eyes lit up and he dove into a pile of bikes and pulled out a frame. He explained how it fit with what I was looking to have built, and was clearly excited and passionate about the whole project while talking with me.
In the end I got what amount to a "nearly new" bike, from stripping down the frame and repainting it, to it being assembled exactly how I requested. On top of that Ron knocked $45 off the original quote he gave me. Now I've got a super-fast, super-light single-speed that gets me around town and gets plenty of looks.
There is something to be said for a people who own/work at a business that are truly passionate about their work, and put themselves into everything they do, and the guys at Nearly New completely fit that billing. -
Review from Yin L.
Chicago, IL
6/20/2008
So I brought in a bike that I purchased at a rummage sale last year for $3 (bargained down from $10-what!) and that has been sitting and sulking from neglect in a basement for 10 months. It looked really bad--flaky tires, squeeky gears, rusty chain, unresponsive back brakes and I wasn't really able to tell whether there were inner tubes at all, really.
The wait on an early Saturday morning was about 20 minutes, the people working there were quick to acknowledge your presence and were friendly. The line was out the door, but the store is actually pretty small so any line more than 2 people would be out the door. Don't let it discourage you because even though it does take a while to get service, once you do, it's probably the friendliest and frank response you will ever get at a bike shop. I hate being in situations where I don't know what I'm talking about, but the people at Nearly New helped me understand what I needed and why. I don't feel ripped off and I don't feel talked down to. And to top it off, the total price to get my new/old bike up to riding shape was well below what I anticipated.
The owner Ron is super nice, honest and you can tell he has a genuine passion for bikes and helping people love bikes as much as he does. It doesn't hurt that he has this hottie named Randy that works at the place, too. Their work is guaranteed for two months and Ron even rewrapped my handlebar tape for me--so nice! When your bike is done, Ron has you test ride the bike before you have to pay for the repairs and there's a lot of adjustments he and his crew makes to ensure you're comfortable on it before you leave them. It's just all around great service and attention.
Ron, I am definitely recommending you to everyone I know and Randy, I'll be back because I think I'll need help with um, learning how to inflate my tires...or something... -
Review from Karen C.
4/8/2008
This shop is so interesting. I went there this past Saturday right around the time they opened. There were already a few people ahead of me looking for a bike. I snooped around while waiting my turn and took in some of the quirks of shopping here. There were random All-Stars, magazines, Irish music cd's, and other oddities strewn about the shelves.
It did take about 2 1/2 hours from the time I got there until my bike was ready to go, but it was fun people watching and see the way the staff puts their personal touch on everything.
The brakes on my bike need adjusting and what's great about buying here is that you get 60 days free service and they told me that even after that they'll usually take care of small things for free.
Friendly, funny, informative staff. Shop here. -
Review from Carlos S.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 7/15/2011
Before you skip this review, I, too, rated A Nearly New highly in the past. I have purchased two bikes here in the past, on in 2007 and one in 2011. Back in 07, I didn't know much about bikes, so when something went wrong, I took it straight to the shop and they fixed it. Or so I thought. I remember returning frequently to get things fixed. And now, fresh in my mind, is the purchase I made 7/6/11, and by today's date 7/15/11, I've had to have a wheelset completely replaced, and then the freewheel cogset needed to be replaced. Both instances, the lack of quality of the bike build and parts almost led to serious injury.
The wheelset almost collapsed as I went over some potholes. Granted, potholes are murder, but these were doublewalled aluminum, brand new wheels. I've ridden Alex R450's over similar terrain and only had aesthetic damage or at worst a flat. The wheelset on my newly purchased Fuji Club race bike bent in the front and came apart at the seam in the back. My skilled and knowledgeable shop buddy told me I need to replace them as repairing aluminum is not very safe.
So I took the bike to A Nearly New, and what did the mechanic want to do? That's right, he said he had no qualms about straightening the rim on the front with pliers and that the split seam should hold up on the back. Not a worry about riding damaged ALUMINUM wheels that once bent, and bent back into shape, are weakened because they are a malleable metal. Not to mention the stressing on the front spokes. No, the only thing that would do is a replacement. So I asked them if they could at least cut a deal on that. So the tech talks to Ron, and I think Ron knows his stuff, and he can tell I know my stuff. So Ron offers to replace the wheelset, free of charge. Awesome, good deal right? What if I hadn't learned about the dangers of repaired aluminum wheelsets???
Then, a few days after picking up the newly repaired bike, I gear up for a 50 mile ride. As I'm riding I notice a grinding noise. I check the chain, cranks, chain ring, wheel, etc. Hmmmm... nothing noticeable. As I lay on it to pick up into an intersection, phoom, The cranks give way and I'm halfway over the handlebars that give and slide forward and down. It feels like the chain broke, so as I pick up the bike to move out of traffic and to the sidewalk, the rear tire comes right off. Yup, right off. I put it back together and flip it, and I notice the grinding happens when coasting. Something is wrong with the freewheel. I take it to my trusted shop, Robert's Cycles on Clark Street. and sure enough, they discover the problem is with the freewheel. It needs to be replaced.
So I take the train back to A Nearly New. My 50 mile ride be damned. When the tech takes it for a spin, he says he doesn't notice anything wrong with it. I flip and and spin it and ask him to feel the freewheel as it coasts. Without acknowledging the fact that they sold me a bad freewheel, he asks if I want it replaced, as if appeasing a complainer. Yes, I say, and I also need the wheel re-trued because it was knocked out of true when it flew off as I was trying to ride it! So he fixes the freewheel, yup that was the problem.
He forgot about truing the wheel. So Ron does this. He is awesome and fast, and the wheel is true as new. I ask him to readjust the brakes, since the release on the front doesn't work, and hasn't worked properly since I bought it (and I asked them to fix it then too). He gets a little annoyed and I remind him I have 45 days or something like that if I have any, ANY problems, and I'd rather get them fixed then let them go and become bigger in the future. Because I really do want to own this bike and put money into improving it, not just repairing it and keeping it running. He says he will buy it back and sell it for 50 more bucks than I bought it from him. He's a little irked, so I tell him no I really like the bike, I just wish I could depend on it and have be a little more reliable. Can you help me with that. And Ron understands man, he's a cyclist. But without a little background knowledge, you might get shafted when it comes to quality and dependability in the work they put into their bikes.
So, I am not deterring from the 4 and 5 star ratings that other people have given this shop. That is their personal experience. I wish I could give them the same, because they do have an awesome selection and pricing on used bikes and parts. But, and BUT is big here, they do not offer the best in dependability and are not very knowledgeable as a staff on the whole. You have to talk to Ron and know what you are talking about to get what your bike truly needs. So yes, A Nearly New is Nearly Perfect when it comes to selection and price, but doesn't even come close when it comes to reliable work and trustworthy repairs... unless you know what you are getting into.
So hopefully, this one star rating won't deter you because even Robert's refers people to Ron. But be wary, and do some research.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/11/2007
I can't say enough about how great this shop and they guys who run it are. My girlfriend bought me… Read more »
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Review from Karen M.
Chicago, IL
12/1/2007
A Nearly New Shop was not only recommended to me by a friend but also by so many of these great reviews. The shop, indeed, deserves the high praise.
After years without a bike, and two without a bike in Chicago, I borrowed a friend's cruiser. I liked riding again (gosh, I think it was high school when I'd last ridden!) and, while I liked the cruiser, found it slightly bulky. It was great for casual neighborhood rides, but it just didn't cut it for my frequent five-mile jaunts to Logan Square.
So, I went to Nearly New to look for a bike of my own. I'd been warned of the bikes and parts and stuff in disarray, so I wasn't shocked to see the mess. But out of that chaos, I found my dear bike. While I'd been somewhat cruiser-minded, I was sold when I found the tall, black Schwinn road bike. Jim let me test ride it and I was in love. Since they were a bit busy (though attentive to everyone who stopped in!), I paid and said I'd pick the bike up the next day. In that time, Jim fixed it up--complete with cork tape on the bars!--gave me some pointers, told my friend and I a couple great bike stories, and sent me on my way with my warranty in hand.
The bike has been good to me ever since. I haven't had to bring it back for any reason (though, it's nice to know I can). -
Review from Karlene H.
Chicago, IL
5/3/2009
Thanks to the guys at A Nearly New Shop, I am now the proud owner of a 1972 Schwinn Suburban bicycle. Or was it 1974? or '76? Stupid even numbers... all sounding the same. Anyway, point is, these guys are great. Really friendly, very patient - they will let you test drive as many different bikes as you like, and they don't pressure you into a purchase.
Be warned, though: should you decide to visit the shop on a weekend afternoon with the intention of buying a bike, you'd best bring a book. Or a friend to talk to. Or your laptop and the idea for that novel you've been meaning to write for like, 10 years now. Because it's gonna be a lonnng wait. Don't get me wrong - it's totally worth it, and the fact that they are so busy is just another testament to their skills. But it can be a significant time investment if you'd to do more than just browse the handful of bikes parked outside on the sidewalk.
I took Matilda out for a spin this weekend (yes, I have named her Matilda), and she rides great. Now all I need to do is procure a helmet, as I'm surely going to get hit by a car at some point... -
Review from Clayton R.
Chicago, IL
5/19/2009
No need to repeat what everyone said, just want to add another 5-star. Got a bike here on Saturday May 19 and Randy was very helpful. Not a lick of condescension on the place.
I got a road bike but I'm finding out my body doesn't like road bikes. So I'm going to see if they'll trade me for a cruiser. But based on these reviews, I doubt I'll have any trouble! -
Review from Adele n.
8/25/2008
The shop is chaotic. Bike frames are stacked three high and twisted around each other from the front to the back of the store. I would not want to walk in here to "browse" for something! This might be OK if you know exactly what you want and you're looking for a cheap deal. But the store is certainly not arraged for the convenience of shoppers.
However, the owner (Ron I think?) was nice and helpful. Judging by all the people who stopped in with bikes in varying states of disrepair while I was there, he's obviously a trusted bike expert in the neighborhood.
I would not recommend A Nearly New Shop for bike accessories. I went in for lights, a lock and a bell. Came away with lights and a bell, but one of the lights didn't work when I got it home and put in some batteries. You can't browse accessories because everything is stored in boxes or on out-of-the-way shelves (again -- the total chaos of the store makes it impossible).
I would consider going back for a tune up or repairs, but probably wouldn't shop there for accessories. -
Review from Josh E.
Chicago, IL
7/6/2011
There are already a plethora of glowing reviews for this place, but I thought I would add one more. I bought a bike here several months ago and love it. I still feel like I got an absolutely great deal on it (not to mention the helmet and lights), but it was today's experience there made me want to get a Yelp account and write this review.
I popped a tube this morning and planned on getting it fixed this afternoon after work. I tried calling them, but the line was busy. So I called Kozy's Cyclery around the corner and was told it would be $18 plus tax for a new tube and labor. I started heading over, planning to stop at Nearly New on the way. I never went any further. Instead of $18+tax for one tube and labor, I paid $17 for tube, labor, a spare tube, a tire lever, and--best of all--a detailed lesson on how to replace the tube myself next time. Thanks guys! -
Review from blake d.
Chicago, IL
9/29/2006
This place is great. Ron worked with my budget as I was purchasing a bike for my cousin. He gives you 60-day parts and labor and tunes the bike up after you select it. Ron and his helper were friendly, attentive, and when no one else was in the store they got chatty.
I went back to get a shifter mechanism, and he charged me only $5. this is the place to get a great used bike that is in great working condition! -
Review from Roberto F.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 8/19/2008
Still a fan of this place for one reason, I know I can show up here in need of a fix and they can usually find the part that I need and put it on relatively quicker.
Still a bit of miss, if your looking for used bike, come by often to see what they might get in.
Bonus points for hiring someone new, to help out Jim and Ron.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/20/2008
Well if you look at the reviews you should know somethings up... Can anything be that perfect. The… Read more »
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