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District Hardware / The Bike Shop
Categories: Shopping Home & Garden Hardware Stores Shopping Sporting Goods Bikes Hardware Stores, Bikes [Edit]
1108 24th St NW(at 24th St and L St NW)
Washington, DC 20037
Neighborhood: West End
(202) 659-8686
Announcement
We couldn't be where we are without you, so please support us for best hardware and best bike http://www.washingtonc...
Announced 2 days ago- Nearest Transit:
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Foggy Bottom Metro Station (Blue, Orange)
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 9 am - 7 pm
Fri-Sat 9 am - 6 pm
Sun 11 am - 5 pm
- Price Range:
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$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
- Dogs Allowed:
- Yes
64 reviews for District Hardware / The Bike Shop
Review Highlights
"Amazing customer service--went in for a new lock and helmet..."
(in 6 reviews)
"They take time to explain what is wrong with your bike, and..."
(in 3 reviews)
"This is the best bike repair shop in the district."
(in 12 reviews)
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64 reviews in English
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Review from Jennie K.
Washington, DC
Updated - 12/18/2011
I thought I couldn't love this place more. But I was wrong.
Just went in today looking for carabiners to make this dog training gear belt that came to me in a dream. While trying to describe how this belt was going to revolutionize my training sessions with my German Shepherd, Batman, I was delighted to learn that this place is dog friendly!
As long as your dog is well behaved and on a leash, he's welcome! They even have a water bowl inside for their doggy friends. This is a great opportunity for me to socialize Batman to different sights and sounds, and will help proof him in advance of his Canine Good Citizen test. Awesome awesome awesome. Thanks, guys!Listed in: West End is the Best End
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/1/2010
I didn't think hardware stores like this existed anymore. This is the kind of place where… Read more »
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Review from rebecca s.
Boston, MA
7/3/2011
I feel good knowing there is an awesome hardware store around the corner with pretty much anything I would need for my house and the fact that they're also bike experts doesn't hurt. When I first moved in a little over a year ago, I brought in my mom's 30 year old Peugeot and just wanted a check up/see that everything was right with it before using it in the city. There was a tall guy (his name currently escapes me) who put my bike up on the stand and said, "Oooooo, you're pedals are out of line." Then he pulled out a HUGE crazy scary tool and cranked at my bike in a way that made me slightly nervous. He gave me the bike back and I swear, it was a faster and younger bike than the one I brought in!
The next time I had a flat and no spares so I brought it in to have the tires replaced. This visit I had a woman help me and she and I bonded over having old bikes, etc. She was very very nice and I love that she explained everything she was doing as she replaced the tire, said my handlebars were tilted too high and then fixed them and then tightened the loose bolts on my seat. Honestly, I just went in for a new tire!
I go here to fill up on automatic air all the time too because it's way better and easier than my hand pump.
I've used this place for bike repair, copying keys, buying new air filters, etc. The best part is that because it's so close, should I ever need to I could just carry my bike there! They also have good hours and only get really busy after people get out of work later in the day. -
Review from Chris B.
Washington, DC
11/6/2011
Let me preface this review by stating that I bike a lot (at least 2,000 miles a year) and do a lot of my own wrenching.
With that being said, this is the place to go for vintage bike repair! These guys know their stuff and do a first rate job. They are a little expensive, but it is better to put a premium on service that you know will be done right versus going the cheap route and risk a garbage result. They have great hours and the staff is extremely friendly and helpful when it comes to both bike work and hardware.
They are my go to shop in DC for bike jobs that I cannot, or don't want to do on my own. I have been to almost every shop in the DMV and these guys rank in my top 2! -
Review from Beryl L.
Washington, DC
2/5/2011
Sells wire clothes hangers for those that are wary of the Plastics (http://www.youtube.com...), but secretly emulate their tactics IRL. The 1D womynnequins that are not-plastics only come in preteen to collegeage 80s/sharpies girly hues - off-the-shoulder white, magenta, m&m blue, and m&m teal (http://www.mymms.com/2...). On cutest top of that, these wires can be womynipulated into costumes such as wings, corsets, hoop skirts. Not so much use for making bumpit hair unless I'm missing something, which brings me to..
They sell a slew of bump protectors (for furniture, not baby bumps which is much more multi-faceted and complicated, not kiss-principle amicable). Also saw people deliberating over easily transportable vacuum cleaners and armheld kitchen appliances.
I'd get to know their better half but I haven't been avid since being run over by a golf cart turning a corner on my hybrid in a faraway land called college... -
Review from LeeAnn O.
Washington, DC
Updated - 3/3/2011
It's been almost 3 years since I wrote my last review, and well, it really says something when you have been going to the same bike shop for nearly 13 years. And it shows with their service. I get greeted by name when I walk into the door with a genuine sense of "hey, welcome back and how can I help you today?" They always ask how my little white Raleigh is doing (in fact, they really do call it the "little white Raleigh"...).
And they treat repeat business seriously and affectionately, small repairs are sometimes on the house and I've been lucky to get a few other customer appreciation gifts. Even Peter, the always honest and always reliable bike mechanic, whose bedside manner can be a bit grizzly and gruff to say the least, warms up to you if you treat him with the respect he deserves. Seriously folks, he knows what he is doing, he is never trying to rip you off, he will always explain why you need what, and he will never charge you for anything without asking. Try getting that from some of the other bike shops in the area. No, really, try. And while he may lecture you on bike care (beleive me, I've gotten my fair share), he's never wrong. Most of my repairs he's done on the spot, explaining what exactly he is doing while he works on it.
I picked up an old Raleigh road bike frame that I wanted custom built out to be my new commuter, which isn't a cheap task at any bike shop. But they worked with me and looked at all price options to build me the most pimpin' (yes, pimpin') bike commuter. The best part about picking up the bike was not just my joy in having a new bike, but seeing the pride from everyone there in delivering it to me.Listed in: Adrenaline Junkies Galore!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/30/2008
I've lived in DC for 10 years and have bought two bikes from The Bike Shop -- one almost 10 years… Read more »
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Review from Melissa W.
Washington, DC
2/8/2011 1 Check-in Here
These people know what service is all about. They breadth bikes through their every pore. I went in with my bike to find out what was wrong with it (it's been making weird noises and its breaks were not really working anymore). Their run-down of what was wrong and why and the many ways of solving the problem was a) professional, b)thorough and c) non-pushy.
I thought that because this shop was location in Foggy Bottom it would be sub-pay and overpriced (I guess I though Foggy Bottom was not the most bike avid crowd, compared to Columbia Heights and the like) but I guess I judged too quickly. They were not pretentious at all, and they were very nice about explaining things without making me feel like I should know more or like they were trying to trick me.
It's hard to convey good service, so you will have to go in there on your own, with your bike and have them look at it for you, they won't charge you anything for a run-down, and from there you can determine what you can afford and which of their options is best for you.
I plan to go back, do check it out, you won't regret it. -
Review from C O.
Washington, DC
11/20/2011
I've been taking my bike to this shop for two years now, and can't recommend it highly enough. I've never had to leave my bike overnight - for all the repairs I've needed they did the work on the spot in 5-20 minutes (while I ran to Trader Joes, bonus!) And upon taking it in for a tune-up, if your bike is fine, they'll just tell you it's good to go rather than trying to sell you something else. They're also not one of those bike shops that will look down on your bike if it's not the latest fancy carbon-fiber toy - I ride my rather old bike to work every day and they're great about giving me advice on how to take care of it. Their customer service is amazing - I nearly always learn something when I go in there.
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Review from Roy C.
Washington, DC
10/12/2010
Had some issues with the ol' bike and risked life and limb on a bent spoke to have it checked out at the District Hardware Bike Shop...
The gentleman handling the repairs was very friendly, knowledgeable, and fun to talk to. He gave me a good mini-lecture on bike upkeep, components, and value. Apparently my old Novara bike used to be a couple grand back in the day, who knew.
Anyways, all the procedures that had to be done to fix my bike were explained in detail... a reliable and precise estimate was provided, and all the work was done in a professional and prompt manner. I can't help but think that Dealerships and Autobody shops should model their business like this-- honest, straightforward, and quality.
Considering how great my bike service was... I have returned repeatedly for all my hardware needs and this is now my go-to hardware and bike-repair shop in the neighborhood. It appears to be a small-business owner shop, so that makes it even better in my book. Good folks, good service, good inventory and prices. Thumbs up! -
Review from Ian L.
Washington, DC
10/28/2010
After going to City Bikes a few times, True Value/The Bike Shop was a breath of fresh air. The staff seems far more knowledgeable and treats the customer with courtesy and respect. They are actually interested in showing you what is wrong with your bike rather than just quoting a number. After repairing my bike I chatting with the tech for a few minutes and was on my way.
Even though I live much closer to other shops, I will definitely be going out of my way to patronize The Bike Shop for all my bike needs.
I almost forgot to mention that The Bike Shop completed by repair on the spot with little to no wait time. -
Review from Doug W.
Washington, DC
5/25/2010
Like any treasure, this gem of a shop is tucked away in the most unlikely place.
I needed a bicycle repair shop yesterday, and this place happened to be within a few feet of where I was searching. A quick check of the hours of operation told me that I only had 30 minutes before they closed, and, since the repair wasn't that critical I was reluctant to go in as some places have very surly employees when it comes to last minute fixes.
As I walked in, I realized the bike shop was part of a hardware store, and I knew I must've had the bewildered look of "did I just come in to the wrong place?" on my face, and I wasn't sure I could just wheel my bike into a store that people were using to get their screws and paint. Thankfully, one of the purveyors of the store saw me, and, in a friendly way, pointed me towards the back where the Bike Shop is located.
The two gentlemen working there looked like they had a lot of experience with the ins and outs of bicycles, as, while my bike was being worked on by one person, the other one was talking/consulting with a customer over repairs to their bike. The ease with which they discussed chain lengths, the tensile strength of certain break lines, etc spoke of a depth of knowledge that was impressive; yet, their genial nature didn't intimidate a neophyte like myself.
My repairs took less than ten minutes, and the cost was reasonable. And, as a bonus, I got a problem fixed with my back set of gears slipping off the chain.
I'm definitely only going back to this place from now on for my repairs. And, who knows...I may even get some hardware for my place next time. :-) -
Review from Andrea H.
Washington, DC
11/13/2011
I've had two, very positive experiences at The Bike Shop. The staff is patient and will explain everything about your bike to you. I feel like they're honest about what your bike needs versus what might be nice to add to your bike. That is, while I have bought things I wasn't intending to, it felt much less like and upsell and more like a really good idea presented to me from a bike expert. I also really like and appreciate the hardware store atmosphere. Their customer services is amazing. They are completely unpretentious, and, most importantly, my bike runs better than it ever has thanks to their staff. It's a great bike shop, and I highly recommend it.
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Review from Scott K.
San Francisco, CA
7/14/2011
Stopped in here while in town on business. Very helpful group!
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Review from Brooke S.
Seattle, WA
9/17/2008
Great experience at District Hardware. Had to take my bike in to get a tune-up after it hadn't had one since rolling off the astro-turf display at Toys-R-Us in '92. They didn't even bat an eye at my MALIBU Nice Cycle so you won't be judged or upsold if you have a dorky, low-rent bike like I do. They gave me great advice, a good estimate and when I came to pick it up it was $30 under that estimate! My baby now looks better than new. If anything ever goes wrong with my sweet, hot-pink MALIBU again, I'll bring it right back to District Hardware for great service.
*One word of warning: they didn't call me to tell me it was ready, and they really like you to pick it up asap, so call them frequently to check on the status of your repair. -
Review from Jaclyn S.
7/25/2009
3.25 stars.
Good for the small stuff and small bike issues. You're probably better off with Logan Hardware or City Bikes for harder-to-find hardware or actual bike purchases. They don't have moving supplies or cheap jumper cables, for instance, and occasionally they run out of stuff. I come here to grab eco-friendly light bulbs, screws, small tools - that sort of thing.
However, that said, I've been coming here for 5 years and followed it to a new location. This place has a good mom and pop kind of feel and service is top notch. The older guy who works at the counter is down to earth and runs his shop with a human, not corporate, feel. In reference to nabiya m's review - I'm Asian and have never felt like they treated me with less than perfect respect. In fact, my questions about tools are answered thoroughly, without making me feel like a silly ignorant girl, and I'm given good advice on what I need and what I don't.
I came in the other day with a flat head screw driver that had snapped off while I was trying to disassemble furniture and when I asked about buying a replacement head, I was given an entirely new screwdriver for free, because it was "likely a manufacturer's defect". They didn't even make me furnish an original receipt (which is good, because who knows where that went). Try that at most places!
Definitely come here if it's in your neighbourhood! -
Review from Robin P.
San Francisco, CA
8/8/2007
The new location at 24 and L is spacious, light-filled, and well-stocked with accessories. They are also currently soliciting suggestions from customers about what products and gear to stock as they complete their inventory.
Every time I've been, I've received prompt, friendly, and knowledgeable service, even if it is slightly more costly than Capitol Hill Bikes. -
Review from Brian B.
8/24/2009 3 Check-ins Here
I really like this place. Every neighborhood needs a good hardware store, and this one also is just great. Not only does it repair bikes, but, well, it feels like the Trader Joe's of hardware stores. It's like the hardware store of "the people." It sells stuff I actually need.
I usually wonder in, name a broken appliance or household fixture, then use a combination of hand language and interpretive dance to the owner. Without fail, acting on limited information, he's been able to provide me the right tool for the job, every time.
You'd be hard pressed to find this type of customer service in the suburbs, let alone in the city. We're really lucky to have this place.
Oh, and did I mention it's a bike shop with competent mechanics!? That's double-plus good!Listed in: Bike Shops
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Review from April H.
Washington, DC
8/4/2007
First off - THEY HAVE MOVED! The store is now located at 24th and L Sts.
The service is topnotch. You get to talk to your bike mechanic. They take time to explain what is wrong with your bike, and will outine various options for fixing it (if you like). When a defective replacement wheel delayed my repair, they repacked my bearings for free.
This is the best bike repair shop in the district. -
Review from Review D.
Washington D.C., DC
6/18/2011
This place is [freaken] awesome! Here is why:
- Their service is high quality, and professional. Courteous and caring.
- They service all kinds of bikes and I have seen people bring in clunkers and top tech gear.
- The prices are very reasonable, especially for the actual service (where parts you might need can get more expensive, but they will put in the right quality stuff).
My personal two stories:
1. I had a cassette replaced there for $8 (with my own spare cassette). - I mean that's a great deal for the specialized work performed.
2. There was something with my bike that I had flats all the time. When I took my bike in, the mechanic found a tiny (i mean tiny, tiny, you can even see it well) thorn piece in my tire. Now with the thorn piece removed I don't waste spare tubes anymore. -
Review from Blackie R.
Washington D.C., DC
3/7/2011
Expensive!Expensive!Expensive! Because it is the inner city place like this are almost boutique hardware stores. Their choices are limited and their prices are at the very top. One could argue they save you a trip to X-depot etc and they're good (somewhat) if you're a city captive. Not my favorite place.
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Review from Adam M.
10/28/2009
I'd gone to this place several times in the past and received competent service.
Today, my brakes were shot and I went to get them fixed. The guy quoted me a price ($75), took my phone #, and told me it'd be ready by 3. Not having received a call, I came to pick the bike up at 5. The same guy was there and didn't even remember who I was even though I'd talked to him less than 5 hours ago. He told me that he didn't get around to fixing my bike, and had no explanation as to why he didn't call me.
I decided to take my business elsewhere. I took the bike to the Bike Rack on 14th and Q, they fixed it in half an hour, and they only charged me $49. I have to wonder after all of the business I've given The Bike Shop whether I was getting ripped off on a regular basis.
I highly recommend the Bike Rack and would suggest going there instead of District Hardware, if my last experience is any indication. -
Review from Brian P.
Alexandria, VA
6/3/2010
The Bike Shop offered excellent service with a knowledgeable team when my wife and I went there to buy our road bikes. Their selection of Raleigh bikes is more than adequate and if they don't have something, they'll work with you to order it.
In addition to bikes, they have a little bit of everything in the store if you need to fix a household item. They also copy keys there including some not so standard types which you can't get copied at the big box home stores. -
Review from Nancy M.
Washington, DC
12/4/2007
I needed to get a vintage bike redone, and the guy was awesome: friendly, helpful, not condescending. The repair was a little pricey (as I found out later), but I was pleased with the service overall.
Next time I went in was for a flat tire on a three-speed. I had tried to fix it myself with a book, but didn't do a great job, so I took it in.
Total 180. A different mechanic was there. When I explained what had happened, he started to SCREAM AT ME for trying to fix my bike myself and not knowing what I was doing. Hi, I'm PAYING you to fix my bike, not to get bitched at. He called me stupid and kept grumbling the whole time. I told him that if he didn't want my business, I would be happy to take it where it was wanted, at which point he shut up. $25 to fix/install a flat tire on a three-speed. Costs only $15 at City Bikes.
Maybe they canned that guy. I hope so, because he definitely lost them a customer. -
Review from John B.
Washington, DC
Updated - 12/10/2006
It's winter time, and bikers, you know what that means: time to stock up on long underwear. You can get a pair right now at The Bike Shop---quality Italian made Giordano long johns for 25% off. And since it's getting darker and darker outside, better throw in a protective vest (the orange reflective kind).
It smells like rubber on the inside, and there is always a mechanic willing to listen to your problems. Hemorrhoids? Try a gelatinous bike seat. Arthritis? You need some new grips. There is something called a "Pocket Rocket Master Blaster" --- a mini bike pump, featuring something called a "Schrader Valve." Only a shop attached to a hardware store could have so many strange gadgets.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/9/2006 First to Review
I needed to tie a mattress to a car. These guys helped me out, big time.
I was illegally parked, out… Read more »
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Review from Cole D.
Washington, DC
4/18/2011
Extremely helpful staff. So friendly and anxious to help. Good selection of products. Prices are decent.
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Review from Dave R.
Washington, DC
5/18/2009
My poor mountain bike takes quite a beating and I really don't have the skills to heal it like I should. I broke a spoke yesterday so it was time for it to get professional loving (it, not me :).
So I yelped up The Bike Shop at District Hardware and decided it was a good day to ride down Rock Creek to check them out. Peter looked at it right away and took his time nurse my bike back to health. He fixed the spoke, but he also helped me track down some of the other things that have been bugging me as well. All along the way we chatted about what he was doing and why he suggested we do it. And then he gave me a great price on the labor afterwards. A good place for getting your bike tweaked.
I'll add their customer base is clearly more commuter than hard-core MTB or road, and it shows in the bikes they sell. If I was doing some serious MTB work done (like a shock rebuild), I might still consider to driving it out to the bike lane. For basic stuff I'll be bringing it here. -
Review from Wade C.
Fairfax, VA
3/15/2010
Combination hardware store and bike shop - this is one of the unique gems you rarely find in the district. This family owned/operated will help you tackle most household projects as well as get your bike ready for the hitting the urban roads.
The customer service is great - not only my experience with the employees, but also witnessing how they treat anyone who comes in the door. They are an asset to the neighborhood, providing the basic services like keymaking and paint mixing, but also have an extensive stock of home maintenance. The bike shop is not intimidating like the tri- specialty shops in Gtown - the mechanics are very easy to talk to and are willing to help figure out solutions to any problems you're having.
Personally, i've been getting more interested in investing in local establishments and giving them business - they provide a service the big chains can't match.
Be sure to check out their collection of vintage and unique bike parts in their display!Listed in: Where I Buy
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Review from Ryan C.
Arlington, VA
4/12/2010
Right by my office and super convenient for minor hardware stuff on my lunchbreak during the week, instead of having to trek to a crowded Home Depot out in the 'burbs.
Have always had what I needed, and on one particular occasion went above and beyond and want to share that story. So, Snowpocalypse 2010, we all remember. Of course, not a shovel in town. Stopped by in that little span between the two enormous storms and asked for a shovel and wanted to buy some ice. No shovels for sale, BUT, they did have their own shovel and said that the building hires someone to shovel their walkway, so they sold me their shovel for a few bucks since it was used. People just don't do that nowadays, so awesome of them!
That was awesome of them and they've found a customer for life because of that. Thanks y'all! -
Review from Erik B.
Washington, DC
7/17/2008
So I have a confession to make - every Halloween costume I have worn since I moved to this district has been slightly last minute. As someone who takes Halloween INCREDIBLY seriously, it pains me to say this. However, every year, I can count on True Value's selection to inspire me.
There was that time I bought a dowel rod, some white spray paint, and red tape, and constructed a white cane. Paired with some sunglasses and a sign on my chest reading "Tuesday, November 18th," voila! I was a blind date.
Then there was the year I picked up a hardhat and one of those things for smoothing out mortar. The girl I was dating at the time wore a nice red and brown dress, I wore some torn jeans and a wife beater, and we went as a brick and brick layer.
And of course, there was the year I was out of costume ideas until I found an old pair of bright purple shorts in my drawer. After some shredding, and a quick trip to True Value for a quart of bright green paint, all that was left was two hours in the bathtub painting my entire body. I stepped in Erik B., but stepped out the Incredible Hulk.
In all seriousness though, the staff at true value has always been incredibly helpful and friendly. They laughed when I told them my costume history, and told me to bring in pictures and they'd hang them up. I also got a neat lesson on one of the oldest continually operating paint shakers around, which they had at their old location. Not sure if it moved with them or not. Basically, I try to go here for anything they sell - even if I can find it somewhere else cheaper. It's local business, after all.
So if you need a funnel and some duct tape and tubing, they have what you need with a wink and a grin. If you need to rush there on April 1st for a ratchet that *happens* to fit your roommate's bed which *happens* to end up in the middle of the main campus plaza, they'll be quick to help. I recommend them highly.
(Upon further reflection, I figured I should probably upload pictures of said costumes to my account, just for giggles. See my pics section) -
Review from Timothy S.
Washington, DC
11/19/2008
I am not sure about the Bike Shop portion ... but the Hardware store is well stocked - with mostly anything you could probably need for a quick repair job around your house.
The staff is EXTREMELY helpful, and willing to really go the extra mile for you.
If you live in FoBo, West End - or even a little further out - District Hardware is definitely worth it. -
Review from Alex B.
Richmond, VA
7/3/2010
I'm new to the area and have scoped out several bike shops all over the city and this is by far my most favorite one them all. They have limited hardware for bikes, but what they do carry is top of the line and functional. I held very intriguing conversations with both the owner and the gentleman who is always working the service department and are all around great guys and are very courteous. Some things are pretty overpriced, I found the same exact pedals I found elsewhere for $10 cheaper...
I even went as far as buying a T-shirt with my purchase. -
Review from Mary B.
Washington, DC
12/5/2008
Great people with a great sense of humor. I got my key copied, it was quick easy and inexpensive. They were helping people out with the bikes and looked extremely helpful. The store has great stuff and is really multi purpose. They have some really 'girly' tools too, pink flowery hammers and things for girls who might need tools but hate stools all in the same thought.
edit Jan 09
Went back in to copy my keys again (yes, I am just passing them out in the streets now, let me know if you want a copy, sheesh). Again they were so helpful. And! I got a girly girly multipurpose hammer, with different little tools in it. And they helped me find the right picture hanging pins that were not only great but also inexpensive. Please go, whether you need a bike or a girly hammer or a dog bowl - or your key copied for the 8th time - they have a great little store there. -
Review from Andrew W.
Washington, DC
12/9/2009
DH merited its good reviews with the almost complete overhaul they did on my adopted vintage one-speed w/ coaster brake. While the final price (including new coaster hub, 2 spokes, and a crap-load of labor [including manhandling of both rims with a hammer, said the mechanic]) seemed steep, it reflected the persistence, expertise, and time and effort put in by the mechanic who saved my one true love.
The one negative aspect of my experience was the initial review provided by a different mechanic, the one who took my bike when I first brought it in. He said I would need to replace both wheels, that they were unsalvageable. The second (hero) mechanic called me some time later and broke the good news: new wheels would not be necessary, and incidentally, were not available in the required size. The final price would be the same regardless.
I would definitely go back - the hero mechanic truly did wonders for my bike. Worth every penny. -
Review from Hus A.
Washington D.C., DC
3/5/2011
I only gave this place one star because there isn't an option for 0 stars. I had the worst ordeal with them just now so am a bit peeved as a write this review. I dealt with a very rude lady that works in the back who takes care of the paint.
I had come in last week specifically requesting a paint for my BATHROOM. I said specifically that the existing paint was oil based. The lady recommended a water-based paint. I don't anything about paint so trusted this lady's supposed expertise in the matter. I spent close to a $100 on materials and the paint.
After I was done I gave it a solid 2 days to dry. I noticed that a splash of water on the wall caused the paint to instantly come off. This was very unsettling seeing as how I thought I had waited long enough to let the paint dry. It had been a full week today and it still is incredibly easy to come off of the walls. I concluded the paint is of poor quality based on this experience as well as based on the fact that a damp cloth on some of the paint dried to the can comes off just as easily.
So I came to the store today, kindly requested that I receive my $15 back, and instantly got into a tussle with the lady and 2 others that work there. I got dumb looks, accusations that I had done something wrong on my end, I brought the defective paint as evidence and the lady swiped it from my hands saying "you can't do that", a claim from them that they have been doing this for 40 years (you'd think they'd get it right by now), and an absolute refusal for a refund. To summarize, the worst customer service experience I have ever had.
Judging from the higher ratings and reviews, maybe they know something about bikes. They don't know squat about paint however. DO NOT GO HERE. Go to ACE hardware instead, they know what they are doing. -
Review from Dietrick H.
Washington, DC
4/4/2010 4 Check-ins Here
This bike shop is located in the West End on 24th Street. The first time I came here was to fill my tires up, which is free thank God because nothing else dealing with these new age bikes is. Yeah, the days of flipping your bike over and fixing everything yourself for 10 bucks is looooong gone. Everyone here is really nice and professional, a real 1st class staff. The guy who usually works on the bikes is real funny, he really knows what he's doing and can usually tell what's wrong with your bike just by looking at it (its not as easy as it sounds). The store isn't that big but they do real well with what they have!
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Review from Lauren H.
Washington, DC
2/8/2011
District Hardware is a neighborhood gem. The staff is so friendly, helpful, and knowledgable that they make once-dreaded trips to the hardware store enjoyable. I haven't used them for their bike services, but I hear they are excellent.
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Review from Alex J.
Washington, DC
11/11/2010
Despite some negative reviews on Yelp, the staff here have been friendly enough. Also, the selection is adequate for my needs; I live in a studio apartment, I'm not putting up drywall over at the new McDonald's.
But, the reason for this horrible review is the PRICES. These guys price gouge the hell out of their customers. I bought ONE LIGHT BULB, and it cost $4.99!!! A quick internet search showed that this bulb was $2.99 everywhere else in the world.
A 66% markup for a damn light bulb?? That's insulting. A few months ago I also had a few keys made that cost over twice the normal price of key duplication I had done in the past. -
Review from Jesse K.
Atlanta, GA
9/3/2010
District Hardware is fabulous. The owner & employees are always very willing to help... which comes in handy when you're totally clueless about household maintenance. They have everything you could ever need here... I get my keys copied here, paint, bike parts & repair... they even have tennis balls and dog stuff. Great place!
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Review from martha w.
4/22/2010
Introduce yourself to Neil, the owner of this superb bike (and hardware) shop. He is a wonderful human being - and he and his staff ("the bike doctors") are the most knowledgeable bike experts in the District, in my view. They resuscitated my retro Raleigh several times: most notably when an SUV backed over it (while parked) and when some hoodlums set fire to its British wicker basket (when outside overnight) and the entire front end was reduced to black cinders. The shop used to be on P Street, right by Dupont Circle, until Pizza Paradiso and Le Pain Quotidien moved into their space. Now they are located around the corner from Trader Joe's. The location is not as convenient, but I would travel any distance so that my bike receives the best healthcare possible.
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Review from Rachel M.
9/1/2008
The guys who work here are incredibly friendly and helpful. I had just moved into my new apartment in Foggy Bottom and needed a bunch of things to fix up the place, so I wandered over to this place with a non-descript list of things I needed. As soon as I walked in a very friendly man approached me, and I told him what I was doing, what kinds of things I thought I needed, and he ended up recommending some better (and even cheaper!) products, and he even gave me some pointers for how to use them. He helped me every step of the way through the store, which was great because I definitely do NOT know my way around a hardware store and get completely confused stepping into one, but the people here don't talk down to you at all like some other place I've been to before.
Listed in: My Neighborhood
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Review from Becky T.
6/22/2009
I came here based on the positive reviews on Yelp and the fact that they are an authorized Dahon dealer. They only had one Dahon in stock but the guys working there were very helpful in answering questions about it and getting me set up on the bike when I decided to purchase it. Everyone was as nice as can be. I should of researched more about the price of the model that I ended up buying though, because I ended up paying substantially more than what it was being offered online. I guess sometimes your wallet suffers to support mom and pop places. That or I just got ripped off. Well, at least it was with a smile and they've been just as helpful when I call in with questions.
