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Passion Trail Bikes
- Hours:
Tue-Fri. 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Sun. 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
35 reviews for Passion Trail Bikes
Review Highlights
I can't say enough good things about this shop. Charles, Patty, and crew are the best in the business. I do a lot of my own maintenance, but they handle all the hard stuff for me. . .and I get all of my parts from them.
They are located very close to Waterdog park, so if I need to pick something up from them, I just wrap it into a ride trip (I live in San Francisco.) A few months ago, I was looking for a small part to finish off a project, and drove all over the city to find it. I should have saved some time and driven down to Belmont in the first place, because after an hour or two of driving around the city, I called them and sure enough they had what I was looking for.
They are incredibly active in supporting the local mountain bike scene. Patty does more trail work than anyone I know and is a great bike activist; and they also host great rides and weekend trips.
Lastly, don't forget about their lounge. . .3 beers on tap, an espresso maker, and usually some other tasty goodies laying around. All bike shops could learn a thing or two from watching the crew at Passion.
People thought this was:
- Useful (2)
Great service
People thought this was:
- Useful (1)
- Cool (1)
3 times there and bike still not fixed.
I'm a avid mountain biker who just move to the peninsula from the city. I took my Santa Cruz Blur to this shop to get my breaks tuned, cable housing replaced and to look into some noise in my suspension. I liked that Passion specialized in Mtn bikes so i took i here. I brought the bike home and went for ride and found my left break lever squeezed all the way back. The mechanic had incorrectly put the bladder in the reservoir. I had to take it back. Second time i picked up I went for a ride and the suspension was very, very noisy and the shifting was pathetic. I took it back a third time - found out the rear shock arm was put on incorrectly and the derailleur needed tuned (after a new cable and housing was installed). So now I have taken in 3 times. I went for a ride this weekend and the shifting is still very bad. I'm not going back because I feel it is a complete wast of time.
I normally do my own bike maintenance but when it came to shortening my hydraulic brake hose I wanted to leave it to the professionals. So I brought my bike here on the recommendation of the folks on http://mtbr.com.
I came in with my bike and was immediately greeted by Charles. He was great. He asked questions about what I needed done and even suggested some services that they'd do. Basically checking over the bike to make sure the bike was in perfect working order when I picked it up. he wrote up a service slip and quoted $100 and five days to get it done (which was fine as I have other bikes in my stable).
I returned to pick up my bike and a mechanic immediately greeted me. He brought out my bike and explained all the services they did on the bike in detail. I walked out with a bill just two bucks over the quoted service bill. The bike was buttoned up as promised, they provided great customer service and I've got a properly set up bike.
I only had time to drop off/pick up my bike but while I was there I noticed they had a great selection of bike parts, clothing and accessories. This shop isn't the closest one to me (I live in Mt View) and there are plenty around but I'll be back here in the future for service and parts.
Wow, a store dedicated to mountain bikes only, with super knowledgeable friendly staff, and a customer lounge with refreshments!
Wow, again. This has got to be one of the coolest little bike shops around. I'm looking forward to joining them on some of their weekend rides and other events.
I have friends that own high end bike shops in the East Bay. Yes they peddle the latest fashion and technology in biking, but after today. They are pretenders....Passion Trail Bikes is flat out the best shop I've ever stopped in...Very nice staff, descent bikes, parts and wears. Popped the bike on the rack spent about 15 minutes adjusting and tuning my shock....Viola, direct qoute "here's your bike, now go ride it" done...that's it. Not that will be $25 for the adjustment and $25 for the oil and $25 for you being out of shape...Great job boys, keep up the good work, the word SERVICE is not dead.
Incredible LBS find! This place is near my house and I just found out about it. It's great because it's sort of like one of those secret, incredibly cool places that you don't want others to find out about. I recently did an overhaul on my Cannondale MTB by switching to a rigid fork. Most of the work was doable but I found myself in a bind towards the end. Went into PTB on a whim and upon entry there was none of that "road bike shop I'm better than you attitude" or "trendy fixie shop with a bunch of bike messengers hanging around" going on. The staff was very inviting and highly educated about bikes without being condescending. I picked up a stem I needed and the guy answered some questions I had about my fork. He told me to bring it in and he could do the work pretty quickly. I did, and he kept his word. Only charged me a very nominal fee. I was so stoked, because that night I finished the rest of the work I had to do and was riding my new conversion! They have a really nice inventory and fairly reasonable prices. Check it out! Or don't and I'll keep this gem of a find to myself.
Hands down, this is the best bike shop on the Peninsula.
Charles, Patty and crew are all knowledgeable mountain bikers and are more than happy to share their knowledge and love of the sport.
Bike repairs, small parts, new bikes... you name. You will not be disappointed.
I recently started mountain biking and they have helped me along in maintaining my original hand-me-down bike, learning ride technique and recently in buying my awesome new bike. The commitment to making sure I got the right bike, with the right fit, was priceless. I always say, you get what you pay for - and here, I got way, way more than my money's worth.
They build a mean wheel too.
Although their primary focus is mountain bikes, they are also quite knowledgeable on all types of bikes. As far as I'm concerned, they are the one stop shop for all my cycling needs.
Additionally. The do a great weekly wride from the shop to waterdog, with a bbq afterwards. All are welcome - just show up a few minutes before posted ride time, and bring a few buckaroos to throw in the kitty for your food/drinks.
Patty also leads a number of trail work days over at Waterdog, just in case you want to help maintain 'dem trails you ride.
These guys know their stuff. Great selection of parts, apparel, and bikes.
Overall, the best bike shop on the peninsula
People thought this was:
- Useful (1)
update 060908
Just when I thought PTB was pretty cool, they started First Fridays: the first Friday each month has a dedicated ladies ride. The turnout for the first one was awesome. All levels, encouraging, fun. AND they showed Seasons post ride, the new movie from the Collective, with Margaritas. Really, what's not to like??
So I'm a newbie. Which means; I can get on the bike. I can ride the bike. I can climb with said bike up SOME small to mediocre hills. It also means that I don't know jack about most other things involving me and a bike and some hills. Except for that I am super good at falling off said bike on said hills. Part and parcel.
So someone who is (still, as of 060908) much better at riding bikes really fast down super steep hills and over badass jumps brings me to PTB. Where I meet Patty and go for a ride with the FBG's.
Make no mistake: just because the ride is slow, doesn't mean you're not learning anything. Patty is officially, in my mind, the badass bike mama who has a fantastic way of telling you that you WILL fall, (and giving you the girlfriend dustoff when you do) and communicating information to you about the bike, and your relationship to it in such a way that you actually gain confidence in one short ride.
Rockin', right?
I thought so too.
I can't speak to the service in the shop 060908 now I can:
I bought my first 'real' bike shoes so I can clip in (yikes) and the staff were helpful, didn't push me, and all that good stuff. I felt confident with my purchase which, when you don't want to waste your money on crap you don't need, and you don't know much about what you're buying, is a big kudos to the people that helped me out.
After the weekly Wednesday night rides, there is a little gathering where people chip in and they serve you food. Good food. And beer. Good beer. Cold beer. Ahhh. What's not to like I ask you?
I would encourage any girl of any ability who wants to give it a go to borrow a bike from a friend, get a helmet, put on your courage and come do a ride with Patty. You'll surprise yourself as the voice in your head goes from 'ooooh shit. I'm gonna fall. I don't know how to do this' to 'I can do this. When I fall I'll just get used to it. Where are the jumps....'
People thought this was:
- Useful (4)
- Funny (3)
- Cool (3)
It's what a California mountain bike shop should be
Lots of stock, expert repairs, laid back attitude and playful shop dog
It's also a place to service some of the more techy parts on your fleet
Hyrdraulic Brakes, Suspension forks, etc
Great amount of stock that you can touch and feel
Lots of hard to find parts, replacement rear derailluer hangers, good selection of clothing
It's worth the drive from SF (or get there by caltrain)
They are ususally open later that the posted hourse say
Honor system beer, food and lounge area
Tip: Don't allow them to hang your bike on the scale to weigh it, the S hook's metal has cut thru it's protective coating and scratched the f*ck out of my frame
I'm not too happy about that at all. It was an accident, but unecessary damage is really frustrating, hopefully they'll order the touch up paint, not charge me and make it as right as can be
People thought this was:
- Useful (3)
- Funny (1)
- Cool (3)
My bf and I popped into the store on Saturday after a "Spandex Party" ride (we did the 70K Giro de Peninsula ride). I call all our roadie rides "Spandex parties." :) I already bought my new mtn bike (08 Santa Cruz Juliana) a couple weeks ago, but always wanted to check out this place. In fact, I've called them before and I knew they had XS Giant Cyper several weeks ago, but never had a chance to run over the store. They must've sold it, since I didn't see it.
Anyways, right when we stepped in the door, we said "Wow!" (outloud even). I told one of the staff members, "What am impressive store you guys have."
They even have a customer lounge with beer and all that. On Saturday they had cupcakes. WHOAH. This place is way cool!! I think I'll have to check out one of their ladies mtb rides and since the store I bought my bike is closing down, I think I'll bring my bike here for service since I can drop it off after work (i work in SSF and live in San Jose). I have a feeling they'll take care of her! I'm sure they are worthy of 5 stars once I do!
Thank you for all your hard work. I appreciate your business and all your employees. I will continue to tell everyone about the great service you provide.
Keep up the great work.
Shout out to Brett for always keeping my bike rolling.
Greatest bike shop ever! Expertise in service/repair of both road and mountain bikes, intimate knowledge of MTB trails in the area and in NorCal in general, and a cool place to hang out and chat. Charles only carries equipment he knows to be reliable and of quality (my guess). There is also the "break room" in the back where a kegerator exists to quench the thirst of all who need relief. Competition quality bicycles are available as well as the parts to bring any other bike up a knotch or two.
I am so fortunate that this shop hidden away on Old County is so close to my house. They need a neon sign on El Camino (near "The Van's" resturant) showing folks that don't know about this awesome shop!
People thought this was:
- Useful (4)
- Cool (4)
I needed to get my bike tube replaced...and honestly know nothing about bikes. The guy who serviced my bike was very patient in explaining what he was doing and what could have caused the flat...he was very thorough in his inspection of my tire to see if it even needed to be replaced in the first place (it did).
He probably took a little longer than 10 minutes, but only charged me $10 (I think he said they charge $1 per minute). The tube was $5. I was out of there paying $15 in about 15-20 minutes. (In comparison to another bike place I went to and had to leave my bike there for 4 days to do the same work!!)
The store itself is a lot larger than it looks from the outside. Ample parking. Store is located right behind the Napa auto parts store front.
So...I'll be back at this place because:
1) quick turnaround (even on a Saturday afternoon!)
2) knowledgable service people
3) open on Sundays!
4) good quality work for a good price
Thanks Passion Trail!
People thought this was:
- Useful (2)
- Cool (1)
Passion Trail Bikes is a mountain biker's haven. Charles, Berry and Peter all take great care in putting together a great shop that is focused on the needs of the decerning rider. They have a great selection of great bikes and parts, all selected with care.
More importantly, their service is excellent and done with alacrity.
People thought this was:
- Useful (2)
This shop is the best! Great mechanics, great bikes, great gear and great service!
Charles is really knowledgeable and takes the time to really answer questions. I sent my friend here when she was having a fork issue and she later told me that Charles was the only person who had ever taken the time to explain why her fork was consistently having this issue. Also, both he and Patty are really into trailwork and bike advocacy.
I'm also really happy with their selection of women's gear as they carry some things that I have only seen on online sites.
This is my favorite shop and really the only sad thing for me about this shop is that it's located too far away from work so that I can't join them on their weekday group rides!
People thought this was:
- Useful (1)
Awesome shop and service! lots of nice parts to pimp your ride. The group ride at Demo over the holiday weekend was the first time my wife actually enjoyed herself on an off-road ride. Thanks Patty!
People thought this was:
- Useful (2)
Sure they stock a large assortment of high-end, chi-chi bikes and parts, along with a wide selection of clothing and gear at this cool, tricky-to-find little shop nestled discreetly behind a Napa Auto Parts near the train tracks in Belmont. But the real draw here is the friendly brown doggie named Reba, who regularly hangs out here. She will play catch with you from the time you step through the door until pretty much the moment you leave, and she's not too proud to use any object she can find, whether it's a well-worn tennis ball or a random piece of rubber she finds under one of the parts cases. Don't even think about not playing catch with her. In fact, if you try to not play catch with her, she will not hesitate to remind you with a menacing (but ultimately friendly) growl. And then you play catch with her.
In summary, go to PTB to play doggie catch and buy bike parts.
People thought this was:
- Funny (2)
I walked into Passion Trail with that feeling of trepidation you get when you know nothing about the subject matter and fear total embarrassment.and confusion leading to, either disappointment, and/or being ripped off.
What a surprise! The welcome I got, the patience shown with my ignorance and the way I was guided through my options eventually leading to me buying my shiny new bike and the whole kit was just a pleasure. Charles showed me all of the ins and outs of what bikes are all about - led me through the pros and cons of this and that, and spent a lot of time with me making me comfortable with my decisions.
I probably didn't pay the lowest price for anything but I know that when I go back there for a tune up or more kit, I will be treated the same way.
This store is a gem - I'll recommend it to any one I talk to.
What an f**king awesome shop. First place I've been to that had front shocks sitting out for you to touch? They have almost everything in stock.
I was lucky enough to demo a Specialized S Works Enduro at Waterdog.
People thought this was:
- Cool (1)
This place is awesome! Great service, selection and reasonable prices. I will definitely go back next time I need a tune up.
Fantastic bike shop. I recently had one of my bikes serviced and I was very happy. The guys are very patient and very helpful. I probably spent close to an hour chatting about various bikes and components. I highly recommend Passion Trail Bikes and I will definitely be going back for more gear and tips.
Want a new bike? Call Charles
Want to go for a ride? Call Charles
Want to get ripped off? DON'T Call Charles.
Simply put, this is a great shop where the social aspects of life have not been forgotten. From the lounge area for post ride exhaustion syndrome, to the friendly smiles behind the counter, this is a great shop. We need another one further South.
great shop to work on your bike. You can drop it off after the Wednesday night ride. It was ready when they said it would be. Make a reservation since they are busy. Have a draft beer while you are there. It is a social experience.
The best local bike shop, bar none.
I always want to support local businesses. I know from experience it is hard to make a living running a bike store. I try to pick up all my parts from Passion. Kevin G.
Came in on a Sunday afternoon looking for a replacement saddle for my wife's bike after she got saddle sore after a long day of riding the day before. The staff was really helpful in helping find her a saddle that best suited her needs. Pricing of the equipment and parts is fair.
I would definitely recommend this shop to anyone looking for accessories and great customer service.
Awesome shop, easy to get there from 101, and easy to find (just behind NAPA auto parts). Great people who specialized in mountain bikes only but with additional knowledge of big burly downhill models and insane freeride models. Plentiful of parts. Lots to drool over around the shop. Great bicycle mechanics and their workshop's huge and well-stocked. They got great selection of dirt jumpers in case your kid wanna get one! Loads of Fox bicycle clothes and plenty of armor to choose from. Helmets are well stocked! Plus side, these guys know some freeride trail and downhill ball breakers hills locally!
I was looking for a tool and found this shop from a search on the tool co. web site. I called and while they didn't have the tool they did suggest some other shops that might have it or I could special order it if I wasn't in a rush. I opted to order it. They called promptly to let me know it arrived. When I went to pick it up I was impressed by the store. I'm sure I'd have been much more impressed if I was in the market for a new mt bike. I picked up my tool and asked a few questions of the mechanic who sold me the tool. I was impressed by the time he took to understand my questions and also by the attempt to give me a satisfactory answer. Much more than I'm used to. I'd give them 5 stars but my transaction was so small I'll have to hold off but based on my good experience I'm sure I'll be back!
Charles is the Yoda of all things bike related. I had a fitting with him and his thorough & careful analysis was priceless. I'm excited to go on my next ride after his adjustments. Its apparent that he really cares with the focus he gives you, and asked for feedback after my ride in case we need to do anything else. I have complete confidence in this establishment. Location is a little hidden - but fine by me as it is not hard to get to. The entire staff is really cool & knowledgeable who really know whats up in the world of biking, trails & equipment. They host lots of events and seminars - which is pretty helpful for those interested in the sport. The shop itself is cleverly decorated as well - with a whole mountainous-outdoorsy look that makes you want to hop on a bike right there and then. It's always a treat to be greeted by their playful pet greyhound :)
People thought this was:
- Useful (1)
This is the Nordstroms of mtn bike shops. Nuff said.
People thought this was:
- Cool (1)
#1 bike shop in the area IMO. I do most of my own wrenching on my bikes, but i know plenty of ppl who get their bikes worked on here and their attn to detail is awesome. I come in before rides and just to say hi and to buy the random tire/hat/clothing/DVD. They treat their customer right, are not over priced, and go out of their way to make the shop seem like a living room (beer, magazines, food). Too bad I don't live closer or I'd come here more often.
People thought this was:
- Useful (1)
Great shop, cool shop rides and a lounge, need I say more. They have a MTB focus but are equally capable for town bikes and road bikes. Charles builds a great wheel
Every bikers dream. I don't know much about my mountain bike, but they are more than willing to sit down and help me with anything and yet they can entertain my husband, an ex-downhill mountain bike racer. They have all the little parts and gadgets you would ever need, as well as clothing. They actually introduced me to one of my favorite short films, ROAM. The owner is so passionate about what he is doing, the shop hosts a weekly bike ride and occasional movie night. They service the community with knowledge and bike parts, but also keeping everyone active.


