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Ace Wheelworks
- Nearest Transit:
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Elm St @ Beech St (87, 96)
Elm St @ Saint James Ave (87, 96)
Beech St @ Orchard St (96)
- Hours:
Mon-Wed 10 am - 7 pm
Thu-Fri 10 am - 8 pm
Sat 9:30 am - 6 pm
Sun 12 pm - 5 pm
- Price Range:
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$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
110 reviews for Ace Wheelworks
Review Highlights
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"...all your questions without making you feel like a jackass." In 4 reviews -
"There is clothing and accessories." In 12 reviews -
"Great service, very knowledgeable, very friendly." In 4 reviews
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110 reviews in English
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Review from David A.
Charlestown, MA
2/27/2012
It had been 40 years since I owned a bike, but decided it was time. The folks at Ace were wonderful. I went 3 separate times as I explored options and each visit they took their time to explain exactly what I needed to think about with no pressure to buy. They made sure I test rode a few before making up my mind and each time adjusted the bike to make sure it fit me right. Everyone was very knowledgable and gave me lots of tips for a new rider.
I have now bought 2 biked (1 for my wife also) and am really delighted with Ace Wheelworks. -
Review from Alex T.
Mid-Cambridge, MA
3/28/2012
Really quality service, decent prices, friendly guys.
I got a great deal on a new bike, they were extremely knowledgeable about helping me find what I wanted, and were not too pushy with selling it to me. Like another reviewer I went 3 or 4 times to check out the bike I was looking at and they never stopped helping me/never got sick of me!
Very glad to have found these guys. It's sometimes a little crowded, but that just goes to show they're doing quite well. -
Review from Ted S.
Lynn, MA
12/29/2011
I didn't buy my bike here - but have taken it in many times - flat tires (far too often), tune ups, electrical issues with my lights. Everyone has been super friendly on every occasion.
I don't know too much about bikes and usually don't have too much time (c'mon - I've taken mine in to have flats fixed!) and they have always been super helpful. They always seem to be very conscientious of cost and can usually fix things on the spot.
I wish we could go back in time and have lots of little stores like this that make the everyday stuff enjoyable.
I'd highly recommend this place if you can get there.
I don't know how much their service costs compared to other places - but I'm happy with what I've paid and don't feel ripped off.
I've spoken mostly about service - but they also have an excellent selection of all the bikes you are going to want...cool colors, cool styles, and then lots of accessories to go with it. -
Review from Rachel P.
Block Island, RI
5/22/2012
I had a great time at Ace. I was touring the area and needed a new wheel. The store was busy but they take the time to help you out in a caring way. I felt they don't talk down to customers but love to talk bikes. You won't only get your bike fixed but learn a lot too!
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Review from R U.
Somerville, MA
5/2/2012
I go here all the time for bike accessories I can't get at Bike Boom. The staff has always been knowledgeable and helpful, and their prices, especially for repairs, are reasonable. (Advice - particularly with regard to unlocking a stuck bike lock - is free.)
The staff seems nice enough and I trust their judgement. A solid bike shop. -
Review from Andrew H.
Somerville, MA
6/6/2011
I've been going to these guys since I moved here in 9/2009. Very friendly and knowledgeable and I think fairly priced. I brought my bike in for a tune-up, expecting it to cost a bit more because I needed brakes and other things (which I had not replaced since purchasing the bike 4 years ago). It was a bunch of little things that added up to $201 + change, which is fine because I about expected that. However, I do find it interesting that I (perhaps stupidly) said beforehand "I'm expecting this to cost about $200". Hopefully just a coincidence. :) I've never felt like they did anything that they didn't think required doing, so I still trust them.
Also, way cute guy named Bruno working on my bike. Adorable smile. Cute butt. I hope some biker girl snaps him right up. -
Review from David M.
8/29/2011
This is a very reliable and friendly place that tends to be on the pricey side for both products and service. Don't get me wrong, its great service and a good selection of products. unfortunately, the bikes I wanted to see where all in there other location (belmont I think).
They tend to have mid range bikes (think 1k plus).
They loose a point until I figure out how to get the staffs attention other than just waiting around for 10-20 minutes. They are busy, and have a lot of stuff to look at, so i don't mind too much... but it seems to happen regardless of day or time. -
Review from Reid D.
Somerville, MA
7/1/2011
Biking through Porter Square, I blew out a tire on the way to work. Walked my bike over to Ace and seeing how busy the store was that i would need to call a cab, but one of the guys looked at the bike and told me he could get me on the road in 15 minutes. 12 minutes later I am back on my bike and only slightly late for work.
Good quick service and not as pricy as I was fearing. -
Review from Molly Y.
Lexington, MA
9/15/2011
I've been to quite a number of bike stores in the past year, thanks to picking up cycling as a stress-relief/exercise/transportation habit.
This is the best one I've been to.
Friendly folks who treat you well, even if you don't know much of anything about bicycles (other than "it has two wheels")? Check. Fantastic selection of stuff from cycling apparel to shoes to parts to accessories to bikes themselves? Check. Good hours that work for folks who have lives and full-time jobs? Check. Convenient location with bike parking inside and outside the shop? Check.
It's a bit farther from my apartment than probably half a dozen other bike shops, at least, but this is where I'll go for everything bike-related. Good service and good products and decent prices - can't beat that. -
Review from Kestrel D.
Jamaica Plain, MA
Updated - 5/30/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Have now finally purchased a bike, love it, and still loved their service - no negative stars, would love to be able to add a 6th.
The shop was packed, but multiple guys spent loads of time helping us decide on accessory options, put things together, adjust things, and generally make sure we were happy and comfortable with everything we chose. They even put our bike rack on the car, and the bikes on the bike rack.
I am now significantly poorer, so I hope to not have to visit Wheelworks again too soon. But would highly recommend them to any one looking to get into biking.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/24/2011
I haven't purchased a bike here yet; this review is purely for customer service.
The bf and I are… Read more »
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Review from James A.
Boston, MA
Updated - 4/4/2011 1 Check-in Here
I don't think 4 stars was fair on these guys. They're the bomb. It's possibly the best bike shop I've ever been to - not necessarily on range, but there's something else happening - a sense of community! They have the most mechanics of any bike shop I've ever seen, you can get seen on the spot. They're all friendly and they're all bike nuts.
I love this place!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/16/2010
these guys really are great.
i bought a Specialized bike online, and got it assembled at another… Read more »
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Review from Paula J.
Mid-Cambridge, MA
6/21/2011
I absolutely LOVE this bike shop with all my heart!!
Everybody who works there are so friendly and helpful.
I must admit, among all the great beings that work there, I am pretty partial to Bruce :)
Even when I'm across town and right in FRONT of another bike shop, I zoomed my way over to Ace Wheelworks to just get the service I know I deserve (true story).
When I first started biking in Boston last summer, I went to AW and got all the things I needed (helmet, rack, lights, bungee cord etc.), but then soon after while I left my bike unattended for 15 minutes, someone took my brand new $50 lights...
I was distraught.
but then, you can't really go without one, right?
esp, when biking at night! your life depends on it!
so I went back to the store low in spirit to get another one.
But then Brian (i think his name is?) was so sympathetic and gave me a decent discount.
my mood was subsequently lifted tremendously....
They are all so neighborly there at AW, I felt. and when I have questions and stuff, my experience was that everybody was very willing to quench my well of curiosity :)
getting too poetic here?
Anyway, I love AW and I hope to continue with them in the future! -
Review from Josh J.
Somerville, MA
6/21/2011
Came in today with a broken pedal. There were 3 or 4 people at the counter, but there were a fair number of people in line so I had to wait for about 10 minutes. The guy who helped me was friendly and knowledgeable. My pedals have power grips, and the guy found two potential replacement pedals: one that was cheaper and would work with my power grips and one that was more expensive but had built-in toe clips. I opted for the ones with the built-in toe clips, and he immediately took my bike into their work area and replaced my old pedals with the new ones, free of charge.
The toe clips are life-changing, by the way. I recommend them. And Ace Wheelworks. -
Review from Ana R.
4/2/2011
I went in looking for a helmet. I was excited and ready to spend some serious cash on something I liked.
I left with no helmet, feeling like an idiot and slightly miffed.
I waited ten minutes looking for customer service, but everyone was busy with other people, which I took as a good sign. Usually I don't like getting a whole lot of in-your-face customer service, but in a specialty shop like this, it's good to have an expert's input.
After spending a while trying on helmets for size, I chose the one I wanted (which reinforced the research I'd already done online). When an attendant became available, I asked him if he had any helmets like the one I wanted in my size. Instead of answering my question, this attendant launched into some Socratic method bullshit asking me why I wanted this particular helmet. He clearly wanted me to buy one of the pricier "swoopy" helmets and was pushing me in that direction by ridiculing my choice - the "cute" helmet (still $50, not exactly cheap).
Maybe he thought he could intimidate me because I'm a casual cyclist and I don't commute or do extreme biking. I just want to ride my bike and look cute without breaking my gourd, jackass. I would have been willing to listen to his reasoning if he'd presented it in a better way, but all he had to say was that my choice was laughable and typical for my type.
Anyway, they didn't have a new helmet in my size and the color scheme I wanted and were unwilling to sell me the display model, so after cutting off my attendant and turning my back on his wise-ass smirk, I walked out of the store.
Cute dog, though. -
Review from David B.
Medford, MA
6/4/2011
Im new to biking and after visiting a few other bike shops Im solidly sold on Ace. Im doing a lot of my own maintenance work/build work and there is just a lot of stuff I dont know and could not glean from parts lists and online advice.
Went into ace a couple different times, each time I asked about a dozen questions and each time they were extremely patient with me. Basically walked me through all of the procedures and gave me tips to get the job done. They seem to have lots of employes, all of them dedicated bike fans. I think just having so many people around gives them a lot of leg room to stand around and help a new guy out. -
Review from Jeremy M.
Somerville, MA
1/29/2011
Wheelworks has become my regular shop since I moved from Boston to Somerville recently. I do most of my own maintenance but often need parts and advice. The friendly, efficient employees do good work and are always happy to explain problems and advise me on my options. Sometimes that means helping me figure out a DIY solution. I once came in with a stripped frame mount (couldn't get the screw out), expecting confirmation that there was no hope, and they fixed it in ten minutes for $5 while showing me why it broke in the first place.
Unlike some shops, I've never been ignored or felt judged because my bike is not fancy or expensive. Though I'm hoping to buy a nice new bike in the coming months, perhaps from them. -
Review from Joanna F.
7/26/2010
Eeeeehhhh...
I brought my bike in for a tune up. The guys here took a brief look at it and told me that the steering was completely shot. They were very honest that it wasn't a huge deal, but that if I wanted my bike to run smoothly, I should replace the handlebars and steering parts. Fine. It cost 30 for the parts and something like 30 for the labor. Ok. I then realize that the actual tune up is 70 bucks. 70 bucks for a tune up?!?! For real????
My bike has been running smoothly since. Has it been running more smoothly than when I got a tune up at Cambridge Bicycle for 30 bucks? No. But it's running smoothly.
Long story short, I don't think a $70 tune up is ever worth it. It left a bad taste in my mouth about this place. But considering it's basically at the end of my street, I'll probably be back. -
Review from Kelly G.
Somerville, MA
Twice thus far during my life-in-Davis-Square I have bought random bikes off of Craigslist, twice I have taken said vehicles to Ace and twice Ace has made me a happy girl.
Today I rolled up on my very first road bike - a $50 craigslist score that I was feeling a little wobbly about. The only thing I knew was that the girl I bought it from said it needed handle bar tape. Who knew? I don't even know what handlebar tape is, but it seemed important - especially from an aesthetic standpoint - the bare metal and ratty electrical tape really weren't doing it for me. I took it over to Ace, and asked Mr. Ace Bike Helper Man for some general advice about handlebar taping. I got that...and so much more.
He came outside, poked around at my bike - told me that it was Taiwanese and that the frame was in great shape, that the rack on the back retailed for $40 alone and it had recent derailers on it (hrm, derailers, ok) so in new-ish parts I was looking at way more than $50 and I got a bike to go with them. Go me. Then we got deep and I learned about French Threaded Bottom Brackets - which has not ceased to sound DIRTY to me...and I liked it.
He told me about bike chains and gears and gave me some really solid sounding pointers on what gears are for what...and THEN he told me how to tape my handlebars....and gave me the inside scoop on what to do if you don't have super dextrous elbows. I'm not saying whether I have them or not, let's just say--- my handlebars are taped within an inch of their LIVES.
And I need a cigarette.
And I don't even smoke nor do I advocate such behavior. Just sayin' I am one purring kitten.Listed in: My Favorite Reviews, ROTMFD
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Review from Kim K.
6/9/2010 1 Check-in Here
I'm a bike newb. I know nothing about bikes or riding. The backstory is that I'm an injured runner rehabbing a labral tear. After 2 months of PT and a cortisone shot I'm feeling good enough to get back to exercising. It's still going to be a while until I can run again (or not be too scared too) but my sports doc gave me the all clear on biking. Woo!
I went to Ace to test drive some bikes and ultimately ended up buying a brand new Trek 7000. Here is my attempt at a thorough review of the process.
Staff: Really, really great.
When I went in for my test drive it took a while for someone to assist me (Ace is BUSY on Sundays!) but once I was helped I felt very taken care of. The guy picked out the bike I ended up buying, went over all the specs, and got me on it for a test drive. He was very knowledgeable and answered all of my obnoxious newb questions. When I returned two days later to buy the bike the guy that helped me then (different guy) was also really great. He gave me great advice, went above and beyond explaining the bike, and answered a ton of my questions.
Also, I have to note, between my test drive and purchase I called Ace twice with silly newb questions and both times were given helpful, abundant, and thorough information.
Bike Inventory: Um, TONS! There wasn't much need for me to explore too much, I hit the bike jackpot on the first try but the variety here was amazing, bikes of all sizes and price points. Very nice!
Accessories: Also tons! They have huge areas for the two things I was most interested in (helmets and locks) but also have a really large selection of other accessories as well (bags, seats, fenders, lights, pumps, gloves, bells, etc).
Price: It's pretty steep (my Trek was about $360) BUT totally worth it! I'm not sure why anyone would buy a refurbed bike at Bikes Not Bombs for $250, or a hunk of junk off Craigslist for $100, when you can buy a brand new, functional, warranted, and safe bike at Ace for just a wee bit more. I am a person who pays for peace of mind so I'm fine with the price I paid. Also, you get a free tune up within 30 days of your purchase as well as 10% off any accessories. Nice!
My only complaint: Since I am a total newb I have no idea how to shift gears properly. I got a brief tutorial on my test drive but I'm feeling a little lost. I'll likely get some books at the library to help. I asked the guy who helped me the day I bought my bike if there was an owner's manual but he said no. I checked on the Trek website and they have a manual so that could be good too!
All in all, I'm extremely satisfied with my experience. I'm happy to have given my business to such a great shop. These people really know their stuff, treat their customers well, and give a damn about both the bikes and their owners. -
Review from Anastasia R.
Cambridge, MA
3/30/2008
This morning I bought a Unicycle. My friends and I are going to start a unicycling gang. Anyway I got it off crairg's list, and brought it to Ace WW to get some air in the tire. They were super friendly, slightly amused and happy to help. The guy helping me out even gave me a few pointers on how to mount my new toy (snicker).
And they have a sticker on their window that says "People love us on yelp" -
Review from Daniel M.
6/20/2008 1 Check-in Here
I came in with my roommate on a Saturday weary from having visited 49502567205867246 other bike shops around the city and expecting more of the same here. I was very much wrong. It was mad busy and yet we were still treated as if we were the only customers in there. Brian helped us out, pointing out bikes that were within our price range or just a little above. He also noted what was good for me since I hadn't ridden in quite some time. Once we pinpointed what size bike we should be on he took us down to the basement to dig through the bikes they had there to find something suitable for the roomie to try out. I played bike stand and held things while he dove in and out of bikes, emerging now and then to say "no, that's no good" or "hey, here, hold this". Once he found was he was looking for we were off on a test ride.
It's funny how I forgot the feeling of being on a bike. I was sold and knew I had to get a bike ASAP. Sadly, they didn't have my size in the bike I wanted (stupid average height). So he gave me the information to call back and when they were expecting a shipment. Unfortunately, I was bested by some smarter folk who got to them before I could and I ended up waiting about two weeks for my bike. (Calling several times and being treated well AND given accurate information each time.)
The second trip wasn't as great as the first but still pretty damn impressive. I showed about 45 minutes before they closed, test rode the bike, and came back in to buy it. They were very thorough explaining how to register the bike with Trek, when to bring it in, discounts I get on accessories (10% off for 30 days) etc. They also helped me find a good lock. What I liked is that they didn't jump right to the most expensive one, they went to the best for what I needed. That kind of service impresses me.
Not only did they win me over by not treating me like dirt for not wanting to spend $900 on a bike, but they worked to find what was right for ME...not them. I will continue to bring my business here thanks to that.
(As a side note this may or may not be a good location to stalk other Yelpers. So I've heard). -
Review from Todd W.
Takoma Park, MD
9/10/2010
I purchased a Gary Fisher for my wife as a graduation present at ACE. This place was great from start to finish. I went in on a Saturday morning with an idea of what I wanted, and within 5 minutes the staff had 6 bikes to choose from that fit my needs. They had bikes that run the range on price and quality. And when i was there, they had some wicked sales going ta boot!
I was able to get outta there with a new bike, helmet, night lights, basket, and a kryptonite lock for significantly less than I had slotted to spend.
Their post-purchase help has been great too. For example, there was some paint on the fender that had a slight nick in it, and there was also a stray piece of stitching coming off the seat. All i had to do was run it back to the shop, and they ordered me touch up paint and a new seat at no cost.
These guys are awesome! -
Review from Becka D.
Framingham, MA
12/20/2006
Not to rain on the parade, but my experiences here haven't been the greatest. In the few times that I have visited this place, I have definitely felt as though I was pressured into buying more than I wanted. Some of it may have to do with the salesperson though...I seem to end up getting the same one whenever I go in.
There is a decent selection and the location is convenient, but there are better shops if you can make the drive. I am a huge fan of Bikeway Source in Bedford (right at the end of the Minuteman trail). Smaller clothing selection there, but *much* better prices and service that by far outshines Ace. -
Review from Erica S.
Media, PA
6/18/2008
My neighborhood bike shop! Yeah, I literally live less than a block from here, so of course I'm in here like 3 times a week to buy every random little bike accessory, ask silly questions, get help making my latest adjustment on one of my many bicycles, or, of course, play with bikes I can't afford.
I like the employees here a lot. They'll help you out in a *mostly* unpretentious way. Yep, there are a couple exceptions (like the guy who told a friend of mine that her bike wasn't worth fixing because "pretty soon no one will be riding those anyway"-- gah!!!), but overall they're good people.
Don't expect a bargain. I'm kind of horrified by some of the prices of the used bikes, for example. But hey, they have used bikes! That's cool.
You'll probably find what you're looking for here, won't get totally ripped off, and most likely won't be treated like an idiot. Based on some of the ego-service I receive at many Boston area bike shops, I'd say that' a pretty stellar review.Listed in: Bikes Rule, Cars Drool
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Review from Susannah B.
Somerville, MA
4/10/2009
I was having a not so great day this week, and to top it off, I realized the handlebars on my bike seemed loose. I stopped by Wheelworks at 15 minutes before closing time (yup, I was one of those annoying customers who shows up just as the employees are ready for happy hour). A cheerful guy who I've seen since I've gone there immediately adjusted the handlebars, showed me that my wheel was loose, and inflated my tires. He also told me that my brake string was sharper than it looks, and covered it with a safety guard. What a sweetie! All free of charge. I love the french guy who works there as well. He used to live next door to me in Inman. He told me, "You want to have so many lights on your bike that you look like a Christmas tree!" I think he is the only European I've met who wears a helmet. He said he never did until a friend of his almost ended up as a vegetable.
I could write and write about this place. Their friendliness, their expertise, their fairness, their shop dog... all are beyond comparison. When you visit Wheelworks, it's impossible to not leave in a good mood. Or maybe it's all the cute bikers. They love what they do, and they want you to be comfortable biking, too; even if you don't own any spandex and your bike is a beater from Craigslist. -
Review from Susie C.
Cambridge, MA
9/2/2010
Every time I come in here I am blown away by how damn friendly everyone is. I will actually go ahead and use the word kind. Kind people work here. And insanely helpful! And the staff all speak highly of each other. I get the impression they genuinely love working here, which makes me want to continue supporting them. I've come in here for all sorts of bike related issues/purchases - never disappointed. And they give my pup water on hot days.
P.S. Colin gives stellar bike fittings. -
Review from Urdentist X.
Medford, MA
3/26/2011
The people who work here are amazing. They know bikes and they take the time to answer all your questions and help you choose the right bike for you. No only are they knowledgeable and patient but they go the extra mile. Last night I picked up my Gary Fisher Mamba and it didn't fit in the car. So we went back in and asked about a bike rack. They help me select one and one of them even helped assemble it and mount it to my car! What amazing service!
Oh, and if this wasn't enough- their prices ROCK! I am a huge comparison shopper (Amazon app is my best friend), So trust me when I say their prices are the best- especially with the spring sale's going on.
Ace Wheel works in somerville, thank you so much! -
Review from Russel S.
Cambridge, MA
12/30/2008
OK, this joint is a good place. They know their bikes here. However, I'm only giving four stars on account of the old French guy who works there (i'm not sure if he still does, but he worked there for years).
Actually, no major complaints about him except that everything he says sounds so cool with his accent that you might actually buy some parts/gear you don't need. Really. If he's still there, talk to him, he'll convince you that you're gonna win the Tour du France if you buy that crazy looking racing jersey on the back wall.
Seriously. . . -
Review from Christian E.
Somerville, MA
8/9/2007
Wheelworks has always been a mixed-bag for me. My first experience there was decidedly not-good. I had just decided to get into road-biking, so I told the salesperson I was looking for road shoes, pedals, helmet, etc. I was new at this, so I trusted that the shoes she was showing me were road shoes. I get home and show them to my roommate, who had worked at a shop, and he says, "Cool, but why did you get mountain shoes? Versatility?" Ugh. I went back, and of course it was pretty easy to up-sell me to a nicer road shoe. That experience was 1 star.
I've been in and out of Ace many times in the 3 years since then, but I find an experience depends on two things: what you're looking for, and who's helping you. Some of the employees are really patient, helpful, and knowledgeable, while others seem to want to test your knowledge to see if you're worth their time.
My best experience was yesterday. My floor pump nozzle broke over the weekend, and I came in looking for a rebuild kit. I knew it was unlikely they'd have it, as the pump was three years old, a discontinued model, and who knows whether they ever carried it. However, I asked (it was actually the same person who sold me the shoes), and she took a look downstairs and found a kit she thought might work. "Don't worry, if it doesn't fit, you can return it," she said quietly. Happily, it did the trick.
The main reason I go to Ace is because it's so close to my house. Their service is generally friendlier than other shops I've been to in Cambridge and Somerville, although it has its highs and lows. They carry a good variety of merchandise that'll do in a pinch. -
Review from Kris G.
Washington D.C., DC
4/8/2008
Looking to get in better shape and start saving some gas money, I decided to buy a bike. After visititing several local shops and test riding a few bikes, I just had to make my purchase at Ace. They had all the other shops on selection, and the staff was really laid back and super friendly. Plus they genuinely seem to have your interest at heart as my awesome sales guy help me picked out the perfect bike without me over paying for something I did not need. They were really helpful in getting me set up with all the items I needed, seeing that I was obviously a novice when it came to bikes, and they walked me through how to do some basic maintainance. I have visited every week since to buy more accessories from them, bike enthusiast knows what I am talking about, hooking up your bike is a full time hobby!
From a lot of Yelp suggestion, broadway bicycle school was where I was gonna buy my bike, but their selections were just too limited for me. Hit up Ace or the big Wheelworks in Belmont, they were just as pleasant there, but I chose Ace for proximity to me. You will not be disappointed here -
Review from B H.
Middlesex, MA
11/20/2009
The other day I needed a tire. I thought maybe I would go to an actual bike shop rather than buying online. So I call these guys.
Me: "Hello, I'm looking for a road bike tire. 700 x 25, you got those?"
Ace: "Yeah we got those."
Me: "You have them for $20?"
Ace: "uuhhh... we have them all prices. [That should have tipped me off right there] But yeah we have some tires starting at that price."
So I go down there. Surprise surprise, the only $20 tires are mountain bike tires. A totally different size. Cheapest road tire is $31.99 Haha, "some tires starting at that price" was technically true I guess.
I am used to a certain amount of borderline dishonest BS from bike shops, but this was exceptional. Lying just to get me in the store? Come on. Did they really think I couldn't just leave and ride less than half a mile to another bike shop?
Avoid these scumbags. Big store, nice selection, but that was it. I am sure they prefer the big spender customers anyways though.
Thanks anyways Ace, for helping me find out about Bicycle Exchange. Who, by the way, have an excellent selection of cheap tires. -
Review from Carl A.
Medford, MA
7/2/2011
These are nice folks, they have all the right equiptment. I do think they need a discount price for those of us dumb enough to keep hitting giant man eating holes and requiring new rims. This is not my idea of a RIM Job. But overall they are nice and take all my money with a smile, then laugh when I hit something else.
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Review from Hapto T.
Somerville, MA
4/15/2008
There are three mechanics worth talking to if you have anything more complex than an adjustment on a NEW bike... The frenchman, the guy with the older buzzed and balding haircut (pictured above), and there is one guy who looks like a young Henry Rollins (I don't know if he's still there). I like these guys a lot. They are knowledgeable, and have been very kind. Other interactions have left a mixed impression... that would be the three-stars.
That said, I'd had numerous poor mechanical experiences here over the past 4 years. I'll ride off into the sunset and the new shifter cable snaps, Brakes are misaligned, no not toed in or the seat slams down into the frame or tips back like a dump truck. Usually it would fail within a few blocks so it was easy to take it back, and they would graciously fix it correctly.
I *want to support them* they are "my local bike shop" - But I had an experience this weekend that warrants a one star review. I'd rather not go into it, but it involved a level of outright aloofness, smarmy incompetence, and dismissive bullshit, blaming my bicycle for his inability to fix it properly, pulling more of it apart than needed to cover his incompetence, continuing to fix it improperly and in a way that could damage the bike even when asked to stop. When I expressed dissatisfaction and worry, I got an obnoxious and indignant response.
Since I knew I'd have to re-do it myself - I bought extra parts... It turned out to be a beginner's mistake... which is forgivable... but the attitude and lack of humility combined with accusations-- not so much.
(Edit: now that I've distanced myself from the scenario, the mechanic not knowing the wierdness of my bike, that's fine, its true, he could have asked someone -- and he may have just had a bad day -- but the manager's? response the day of the incident and the day I came back to get the refund which he angrily processed - and lack of desire to take a look to make sure I would be wrong (I wasn't) when I mentioned that I thought something was obviously wrong -- Sorry Ace, probably not coming back.) -
Review from Alexandria L.
Cambridge, MA
9/1/2011
I live a block from ata cycle ( the worst bike shop in Cambridge) I found Ace to be very relaxed and forthcoming . very polite with no pretension. I felt very comfortable and intend to go back for any more repairs i may need.
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Review from Elizabeth F.
Los Angeles, CA
Updated - 7/2/2010
A year since my last review, I brought my bike in for a tune-up. Carelessly, I had left it locked up outside during our monsoon season (also known as "spring"). While I was there, I decided I'd purchase a rack for it.
"How much to get the rack put on my bike?" I asked.
"Ten, maybe fifteen dollars," the employee replied.
The hell? "I'm pretty handy," I said. "When I pick up my bike, maybe I'll purchase the rack and then install it myself."
A week later, I returned to get my bike and asked a different employee about the cost of attaching the rack.
"Cost?" he asked, "I'll attach it for free."
So I left that visit satisfied, but I'm still fairly put off by the first employee. I'll certainly never need his help.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/30/2009
I dropped off my bike on Saturday for a tune-up, and it was ready yesterday. I also needed new rear… Read more »
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Review from Dana L.
12/26/2007
A large selection of parts, and lots of pretty bikes to ogle at (that's the way that some of us roll). If I were going to drop several grand on a piece of sport jewelry, I would probably do it at a place like this.
I personally come here for bike parts on one of my Frankenstein DIY bike builds, especially when I'm in a hurry and don't want to wait for one of the mail order houses to send me stuff. The prices are a bit high, but they are pretty fair. The sales people are friendly and knowledgeable (you would think that all high-end bike shops would have people who know their stuff, but that just isn't the case).
When I needed a box to ship a bike, they gave me one for free. -
Review from Mona M.
Jamaica Plain, MA
7/11/2009
My new single speed bicycle was making me feel oh-so-slow, but maybe it's me? In any case, I decided to drop in for a little help. I went in and spoke with a really helpful guy named Mamet. In the end, he fixed my break pad, seat, and the location of my hand breaks. After each adjustment he'd check in and let me know the ways in which I could achieve an ergonomic fit and efficient ride. When we were finished I asked how much was owed and he said NOTHING! Amazing! He helped me for about 45 minutes and now my bike rides swimmingly. Way to go Wheelworks! Everyone is helpful, knowledgeable and super cool.
Thanks! -
Review from jorge m.
Medford, MA
9/19/2011
I wish I could say great things about Ace Wheelworks. the appearance of the store is great and everyone around me seem to be getting help.
I came in on sunday afternoon, ready to buy a bike, the store was not busy and there was planty employees around. infact there was an employee that passed by me 3 times even made eye contact with me and did not ask if I had any questions about the bikes. I was in the store for 20 min. without a single person approaching me to provide assistance.
I am not sure if this is the normal practice for the store, but they lost a sale this time. -
Review from Christine L.
Somerville, MA
9/12/2011
Ace is the closest bike shop to my abode, and so I go there a lot out of necessity. I definitely prefer to go to Paramount (in Ball Square) if I can, but that dude sometimes keeps odd hours so it can be hard to catch him.
Here's the thing about Ace: they have a very nice shop. It's full of lots of different bike locks, lights, panniers, etc. And the staff are knowledgeable, and will give you way more information than you can possibly ever want about, for example, the difference between a basic helmet that will simply protect your melon and a super fancy-pants almost $300 helmet that has Kevlar in it and somehow actually makes your head *cooler* when you wear it.
But, when it comes to repairs, I think they are really, really spotty. I've had them "miss" a lot of things that I think a more meticulous bike mechanic would have caught. I think it's actually because they are too busy, and they don't always take the time they should with your bike because they are trying to rush through all the flat repairs and other jobs they have piled up.
Here's a detailed example - they replaced my back wheel quick-release & axle a while back because the old one was rusted out and kept releasing and the wheel would rub against the bike frame. Ok, great, so then I had a new axle and quick-release. But the same thing kept happening - the quick release would release, and I'd be biking along doo de doo until rub rub rub and I'd have to stop and get off the bike and try to re-center my back wheel and re-tighten it & get back on, etc. ad infinitum. I must have gone in to Ace THREE TIMES and had various unhelpful things proposed before one of their more conscientious mechanics finally realized that the axle & quick-release they'd put in was aluminum and too soft for the pressure my bike put on it. So finally I got a new steel one and that worked fine. But unfortunately, by this time, my back wheel had been ruined and needed to be replaced as well.
I wish this were the only case of something like this happening, but it isn't. (Maybe I have a bit of a masochistic streak?)
So - go there for gear, but I just can't recommend them for repairs. -
Review from Pete P.
Austin, TX
4/21/2008
Overall this is the best neighborhood bike shop I found after 9 years in Boston. If you want a destination shop, where you can see every model of every bike under the sun then head to its big brother, Ace Wheel Works.
For you friendly neighborhood maintenance, parts and accessories, head to Ace! The same core staff has been there for ever and they will get to know you and treat you right. I have bought my last 3 bikes there and I am about to buy my 4th.
I moved to Austin and my mtn. bike was just stolen out of the yard. Bummer. So, I like these guys so much I am going to go back to Boston, for a business trip, and buy the replacement bike from them!
