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The Bent Spoke - CLOSED
Category: Shopping Sporting Goods Bikes Bikes [Edit]
6124 Telegraph Ave(between 62nd St & 61st St)
Oakland, CA 94609
Neighborhoods: Rockridge, North Oakland
(510) 652-3089
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
39 reviews for The Bent Spoke
Review Highlights
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"Everybody loves the missing link and I've never had a great..." In 5 reviews -
"...Spoke is an authorized Bianchi dealer and deservingly so." In 3 reviews -
"...and suggest affordable alternatives to fixing my bike or..." In 6 reviews
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39 reviews in English
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Review from Katie F.
Berkeley, CA
4/7/2012
ALERT! The Bent Spoke is NOT CLOSED! It's just been renamed The Spoke Cyclery. Same place, same phone number, same reliable wonderful folks. Hopefully Yelp can fix this mislabeling soon...
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Review from John D.
Oakland, CA
5/26/2011
Prices are great. They have what you need. The also have this giant inventory of take off parts. You could build a bike from scratch, almost, with all that stuff. I'm eyeing some used Rock Shox for my old Iron Horse MTB. You can save some serious coinage here.
I thought they were nice. Uh, maybe treat them with some respect and don't expect Nordstrom service out of a local shop trying to make it happen? Chill people! -
Review from Kenneth R.
Berkeley, CA
12/29/2010 1 Check-in Here
I'm with Ylva T. on this one: I went in to get a flat fixed and was in and out fairly quickly with a flat $15 charge. My usual bike place is currently the Missing Link, and I'll stick with that choice for routine business. However, I'll remember the Bent Spoke and could well be back when circumstances next bring me back to the area.
The employees that I encountered did not have world class bedside manner. On the other hand, they weren't offensive or anything. Their job is to maintain bicycles, not people -- let's hope that they do that well. -
Review from John F.
Emeryville, CA
10/25/2010
A lot of the negative reviews have mentioned a poor attitude from some of the employees. And I am with you on that.
But the heavy set guy who, I think, is the owner is so friendly and helpful it all balances out.
And more importantly they do the work, they do it well, on time, and for a very fair price.
So gird you loins, prepare for a little edge from the guy taking your bike in, and then:
go back,
pick your bike up
be pleased about how great its running
and pay your smaller that expected bill. -
Review from Mace M.
San Lorenzo, CA
8/7/2009
I've never been INSIDE The Bent Spoke, but I have passed it several times, and happen to run into a couple guys who work there who are always down to help with a quick problem/question/or fix.
I was just passing while riding in Berkeley with friends the other day, and it felt like my chain was slipping hard, but couldn't exactly find the problem. I stopped to ask one of the techs that was outside, and he jumped on my bike, rode it for about ten seconds and pointed the problem out. I was able to fix it in a matter of minutes myself, but the fact that he diagnosed the issue for me that quick was amazing. I'll definitely be back to check out TBS for a serious analysis soon! -
Review from mahi m.
San Francisco, CA
7/4/2010
The Bent Spoke is like that table in high school cafeteria. If they decide you're cool enough to join, I bet they do a great job with your bike. But if you're in the drama club or yearbook, well, there's no chair for you.
I walk past the Bent Spoke nearly every day, so when I spotted an old bike on the rack that would have been perfect for my commuting needs, I went in and put my name down. Asked them to call me when they were done fixing it up. A month went by, then two, and each time I called they said they would get around to it but they'd been busy. Great for the folks whose bikes they were fixing, I guess, but a long time for me to be bikeless.
Finally, on my fifth or sixth call, the guy says it's too broke to be worth fixing, no matter what I'd want to pay for it. He said it was just junk. Thing is, it's still in their rack. I hope whoever they decide is good enough to sell it to loves it as much as I did. -
Review from Joe Y.
Berkeley, CA
12/27/2007
Other reviewers have had negative experiences here, but mine have been positive. In fact, it's my store of choice for all parts or any repairs I don't want to do. BTW, I own two bikes, and my wife owns one; we do not have a car and are biking constantly. I am a bike mechanic myself and do almost all my own work on my bikes; these guys are very knowledgeable and helpful. My only complaints are that one time someone did a repair on my wife's bike and took some paint off her frame while hanging it in the bike stand, and sometimes this or that person seems to be in a bad mood. These minor things could keep them from getting five stars.* (I don't really care about moods, because I just need expert knowledge and skill, which I get there.)
I ride Berkeley/Oakland streets all the time and take rides into the Oakland Hills regularly, and this place feels really comfortable for a biker/mechanic like me. Based on the other reviews, I will heartily recommend The Bent Spoke to fellow biker rats but will be careful recommending it to those who don't know much about bikes.
*Another reviewer complains that The Bent Spoke asked to see a receipt when the reviewer attempted to sell TBS a bike. I admire the hell out of this, because it means TBS is not dealing in stolen bikes. They deserve five stars. -
Review from Dani G.
Berkeley, CA
Updated - 11/16/2008
It got worse!
I used the store credit to get a bolt to turn my bike seat into not-a-quick-release.
Again, someone behind the counter looked at my bike and told me what to buy.
Months later, I bought myself a back bike rack at the Missing Link and tried to use their tool room to install it. Halfway through, I realized that I wouldn't be able to attach it at the point near my seat because the bolt was too small to go through both the frame and the new rack. When I pulled over a Missing Link employee to take a quick look and make sure that I wasn't missing anything, he told me that actually, that bolt was too small for my frame and this was actually very dangerous and I should change it immediately.
I've been riding around on an unsafe bike without realizing it because the salesguy at the Bent Spoke sold me the wrong piece of hardwear! I will not buy from them again.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/21/2007
I agree with the others who said that you never know what you're going to get.
I went because my… Read more »
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Review from Cielle T.
Oakland, CA
9/16/2008
These guys have been so much more helpful and friendly than the folks at Missing Link. even though I work just down the street from Missing Link, I'll hold off and make the trek to Bent Spoke beacuse I'm assured a better experience.
The folks behind the counter are nice, and most of them will let you plop on the floor and dig through all their used parts without giving you a funny look. They also aren't shy about sharing their knowledge -- if you ask a question, they'll take the time to walk you through it, and without the snottiness of some other bike shops. -
Review from Ted H.
Portland, OR
6/14/2011
I'd say if you're wanting to purchase a used bike at a reasonable price, go to them brotha! I purchased my diamond back sorrento back in 1995 and it is still running strong. I remember their letting me ride it around the block prior to purchase. I remember feeling like a king riding a bike that felt more like a cadillac than a bug (street bikes can be so stiff!). Anyway, the folks are nice and non elitist. I hate those other bike shops like the missing link where, sure you may find the best bike, but you'll get the snood along with it! Snobbery is for those that want to keep the sport of biking all to themselves. Me, I'm for the common man. Wear anything and just ride, ride on my brotha!
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Review from allison m.
Oakland, CA
4/6/2008
I was rebuilding an old Raliegh supercourse (making it a single speed, fixing up the brakes, etc) this past fall. After taking it to the missing link it broke after I rode it three times. THREE TIMES. I took it to the bent spoke and they seemed to understand everything the Missing Link didn't (specifically, english standards). It was fixed the next day and didn't cost as much as I thought.
Everybody loves the missing link and I've never had a great experience there. I kept going back because I believed the hype. DON'T BELIEVE THE HYPE. The Bent Spoke is great. -
Review from David S.
1/3/2008
I didn't need any work done to my bike. I was just looking for a nice bike. They are the dealer of several brands I'm interested in. So I went in. The store is pretty sketch, they don't have much of a selection and are clearly a service oriented shop with a few nice bikes and plenty junky ones. But they are probably selling to students looking for a $50 ride.
There was a line of people needing tire flats fixed and seat posts tightened...so i couldn't talk to anyone and nobody said anything as I stood at the counter for a few minutes. So I can't imagine going back in here if I need anything, especially with plenty of friendly shops in Rockridge on College so close by. -
Review from Reverend D.
El Sobrante, CA
9/8/2005
My old man and I teach kids how to build little electric go-carts out of random spare parts. Being a sort of junkyard wars operation, we often have need of odd parts to complete specific projects. On one such project we needed bike parts to be adapted to extremely odd applications. The bent spoke was just the place we needed.
The people at the bent spoke are extremely helpful and knowledgable as well as able to tackle odd problems. They carry a wide selection of of parts, both high quality new parts and good quality used parts. If you have any project involving a bike, I would recomend talking to these people. They can help you get it done, or at least point towards someone who can. -
Review from Greg J.
Dallas, TX
7/13/2008
I needed to build a bike and these guys were great at understanding my needs and budget. They never tried to push me to get more than I needed and really spent a lot of time talking my options over with me despite knowing that I was on a tight budget (and even encouraging me to do more of the building myself than planned in order to save on labor costs). They weren't salesmen, but bike fans who wanted me to have the best bike for my money. I've built bikes for years though so I can speak the lingo and we can relate. I did see the same people who were being very awesome with me getting a bit annoyed at another customer that knew nothing about bikes. And, honestly, they were a bit snippy with me at first until they realized I knew bikes pretty well.
Overall, GREAT place if you are a DIY bike person who builds and repairs there own bikes on a reasonable budget. Probably not the best place for a novice who doesn't know much about bikes or if you're some yuppy who thinks they need a $4,000 bike nicer than Lance Armstrong's. They don't have a huge selection and don't carry too much in the way of the really high end gadgety stuff and probably not the place to go to buy a bike for your kid or for light family use. Too small a place without that much of a selection.
One awesome thing. There's a bike I like that most places in the Bay Area sell for almost $700 and they had it for $500. In general, I found their prices to be quite reasonable. These guys won't upsell you or rip you off. These guys care about cycling, not making money.
All in all, it depends on who you are. For me, as a bike lover who builds and repairs his own bikes on a moderate budget, I found it to be pretty darn good and way better than most places in the Bay Area. I'll definitely be coming back. -
Review from Jahmese M.
Oakland, CA
5/7/2011
As far as local bike retailers go, not so great customer service (Ive visited quite a few recently). Not impressed by the selection of bikes. The good ones needed fixing and weren't ready to buy. Overall, would prefer the other used and new bike stores around.
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Review from G A.
Berkeley, CA
6/29/2009
This place is completely random. One day it is great and the next terrible. It is more like a collection of independent contractors rather than a shop. If you get the good guy, you win, if not, then not.
On the up side, there seem to be more good than bad guys here.
Personally, I am not that happy with the place. -
Review from Ylva T.
Berkeley, CA
11/14/2010
I only had a tire fixed but I was in and out in 5 min! Very friendly staff, cheap and to the point. None of the attitude that so many bike shops have. I liked it and will take my bike there for my next tune up.
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Review from Jake M.
Oakland, CA
Updated - 2/5/2009
Got some work done here, and as far as I can tell so far they did a good job (replacing rear cassette and chain, brake adjustment, wheel true, a few other minor things). What bugs me is that while the bike was in the shop, a mechanic called me and pushed new tires. One of mine did have a little hole in the wall, letting tube poke out, so I went for it, trusting him when he said that the tires they used were just as good if not better than the ones he was replacing.
Well, the new tires have a much different feel, and only go to 110 psi, not 120. I wish I had just held out and gotten another set of Continentals. The worst part is, I talked to my serious biking buddy and she opined that I didn't need new tires in the first place. Maybe they knew something she didn't in the shop, but it makes me wonder.
With the repair, I experienced the usual disorganization, friendly and personal customer service, and general quirkiness that I and others have logged before. I will still go here for small, on the spot repairs, but will think twice before getting major work.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/7/2008
Wow, there are some horror stories here, but for my two times in the shop getting simple repairs,… Read more »
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Review from Evelyn w.
Emeryville, CA
7/3/2010
I love the bent spoke! They are always very helpful and suggest affordable alternatives to fixing my bike or whatever the issue is - such as accessories. I have also purchased used bikes a few times - for a great price - just by checking back every once in a while until they have exactly what I'm looking for. Yesterday I was in there to have my old bike put back together and was chatting with a nice guy named Jess who used to work there - if you know how to reach him please tell him I'm looking for him!
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Review from Will T.
Concord, CA
3/20/2009
Over the phone service was punctual and polite and courteous. They didn't have the exact answer at the time, asked for name and number, and called me back within minutes with the answer after verifying measurements. This would be a routine service expected of a solid brick & mortar business in the 1980s but as time moves on, you'd be surprised at how many stores can't do this. 5 Stars from me. P.S. Bent Spoke is an authorized Bianchi dealer and deservingly so.
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Review from Amol R.
Oakland, CA
2/5/2011
There's an inevitable dash of pretension that comes with any retail job. The worst offenders tend to be movie/record stores, cafes, and bike shops. "Bike technicians" are the car mechanics of the hipster world, and as such, their scorn for the general population shouldn't be a huge surprise to anyone. Frankly, I think it's a little more warranted, as fixing a bike takes a little more savvy than, say, scanning blogs for record recommendations or grinding beans. They can be judgmental, but they've earned it.
Having said that, I had several really great experiences with the staff at the Bent Spoke. I bought an old frame that needed new brakes, derailers, kickstand, and seat. Basically, new everything.
Anyway, the woman who worked there was super helpful, pointing out the buckets of cheap used parts and offering advice without ever trying to upsell. Granted, this isn't for everyone. If you just want to get in and get out, there are dozens of bike shops that will charge more and get you in and out quicker. I got the impression that they weren't a 'repair shop' as much as a place where kids like to repair bikes, and to educate other people to do the same thing. Personally, I left feeling like I knew a little bit more about my bike, and a little more confident that next time around, I could fix it myself. Self-reliance is cool, kids.
Now if only they'd shave those damn dreadlocks. -
Review from Noelle O.
Berkeley, CA
5/7/2007
Got a pretty decent tune-up here with minimal wait. The guys were all very friendly, had no problem there. After the tune-up, my gears shifted differently than they ever had, a bit disconcerting, but it runs. It's not my favorite place (that would go to San Francisco Cyclery and Park Cyclery in SF), but I'd go there again.
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Review from Lemony B.
Berkeley, CA
8/8/2007
The Bent Spoke is the kind of place that you can't know what you're going to get. It depends so closely on who you are and whom you encounter there. If you're good at asking questions, and you get someone who's friendly and looking out for you, you can get great help and probably some under-the-table style advice that'll save you perhaps even hundreds of dollars. Some folks there are super-helpful once you ask a couple questions.
BUT, you could also end up with a bike that you didn't really want, or perhaps you get the wrong help and they don't like your haircut. It's at least 25% crapshoot.
I've had lots of good experiences here, grilling people for advice, buying stuff. They built one of my bikes, which has stood up to a lot of wear and is great and perfect for what I wanted, except the shifting has never been 100% smooth. Also, I wanted to sell it back to them at one point, and they demanded to see the receipt from years back, which I of course lost.
They are cheap for truing wheels and fixing this and that, sometimes. Certainly they're not out to cheat you. Basically, my overall advice, if you're buying a bike, shop around. Ask lots and LOTS of questions and don't be afraid to be a novice. Say to yourself, I'm going to try at least 2 or 3 bike shops before I commit to buying a bike, and make one of the shops the Bent Spoke. Call people and ask how much certain makes are. This is a good, local shop, but there are others too, so check around. You won't feel bad about yourself buying here, but there is a chance you might fare better elsewhere. -
Review from Natalia C.
Oakland, CA
6/20/2007
This may be a great shop if you already know about bikes, but I do not and they screwed me. I am 5'8" and went in looking for a good commuter bike. They sold me a 15" extra small frame bike. That size bike is made for someone who is about 5'4" or 5'5". They took advantage of my lack of knowledge about bikes and what I needed and sold me the bike anyway even thouhg I am sure they knew it was the wrong size for my body. Keep this info in mind when going to their shop!
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Review from Jonathan W.
3/22/2009
Ive gone here several times. They are friendly and helpful. Their prices are fair too. They helped me with my bike and since it was a simple fix they handed me a wrench and I fixed it myself. I would definitely shop here again.
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Review from Andrew W.
Los Angeles, CA
1/10/2006
One of two bicycle co-ops in berkeley. I guess its only natural that both of them have unfriendly service staffs.
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Review from Kiwi I.
Oakland, CA
7/28/2008
I was looking to get a single-speed (not fixie) bike. Though I did get some attention, the 'salesperson' didn't seem too enthusiastic or helpful, not even offering any suggestions when it was clear that they didn't have anything in my size (I'm short). I wouldn't go here again unless I had to.
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Review from Logan P.
Santa Cruz, CA
9/14/2010
Not knowing much about bikes I was a little worried about being belittled by elitist bike shop hipsters when I entered the Bent Spoke. To my pleasant surprise, however, the staff was super friendly and my bike was fixed immediately at an affordable price. I definitely recommend coming here if you need repairs done to your bike. The only reason I don't give it 5 stars is because their selection of used bikes for sale is a bit paltry and quite pricey.
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Review from avocado a.
Berkeley, CA
3/3/2008
Good shop. The employees aren't trying to be your best friends, but they're not trying to glad-hand or upsell you, either. My bikes are pretty janky and the subject of scorn at some bike shops, but that's not the case here.
There are lots of used bikes and parts, and the prices on both new and used seem pretty reasonable.
I've never had repair work done here, so I can't speak to that.
My biggest complaint is that it always seems like they're out of whatever esoteric thing it is that I need. That said, the couple times I've ordered something, it came when they said it would (uncommon for ordering from retail stores in my experience).
Update: A couple of the other reviewers suggested that you have to sit at the cool kid table to get good service here. I am not a cool kid, not even ironically, yet I've always had good service here. Just wanted to add that. -
Review from Aryana D.
Oakland, CA
6/12/2008
these guys rock.
If you want a bike built,
talk to tim. -
Review from Koko M.
Albany, CA
9/12/2007
I have had positive experiences there...for the most part. The help is not hostile (no, not even a little.) but they don't fall over themselves for you, either. Luckily I'm not shy about asking questions.
I had a remarkably similar experience to the lady who was sold the wrong size frame. I was also sold an x-small, and at 5'6" it really is just a bit too small for me. My first bike in over 20 years, I didn't know any better. But I don't think I was "screwed", I told the employee that the bike felt good, which it did... in the shop. Then I started riding it every day, and realized I was really kinda crammed into that frame.
Having said that, they also spent a lot of time helping me with rack fitting issues (associated with x-small frames) and did not charge me for the work, and did my 60 day free tune-up even after I let the 60 day mark go by.
It's a small business, locally owned, generally friendly and not over-priced. -
Review from Light E.
San Francisco, CA
5/12/2009
I've been to Bent Spoke 3 times and have had different experiences each time. The first, I was just browsing, and noticed they had 2008 Jamis Satellites for $500--a TOTAL steal! I tried one out and the sales guy was really helpful, adjusting it slightly for me and giving me good information. I said I'd think about it and didn't feel any pressure.
The second time I went in was to buy the bike. After some consideration I decided it was exactly what I wanted and it had felt great. It was a 54 and I'm 5'6"--according to all the charts and the first salesman, that was a good fit for me. However this time there was a different salesman there (glasses, dark hair), who before he even pulled the bike down for me said it was "too big" and "if he was me he wouldn't buy it". I was new to road bikes at the time and was instantly discouraged and conflicted as it really felt perfect. I was about to walk out when another salesguy (with dreads) came up, did a couple tiny adjustments, had me try it out again (even better!) and agreed with me that it was perfect. I bought it and never regretted it--it's a wonderful bike and I have no complaints. Too bad it was a clearout sale and I don't think they're carrying Jamises anymore.
The third time I went it was because I had stupidly attached my bike lock holder over a brake cable and it had been worn straight through (I know, I know). I was prepared for ridicule and received it--from the same salesman who told me not to buy the bike. However after 1/2 an hour I left with a $4 new cable and a free tune up and felt really good about the experience, despite the attitude (he warmed up after a bit). My right-hand brake is a little overtightened but it's relaxed over time.
Overall, it's hit and miss on the experience based on the salespeople there and your sensitivity to them. But I got an amazing bike at an unheard of price. Not sure I'd go back there for a tune up again but I really appreciated the good deal. -
Review from n r.
Oakland, CA
10/20/2009
I Love the Bent Spoke. I bought my bike a month ago and have had a few issues with it. I've returned several times, receiving great help from them.
The thing is, if you buy something as expensive and important as a bicycle, you *should* know a little about bikes. This is your life! I don't know a lot, but I've done some research. The internet has plenty of information to offer. When you're looking at bikes, ask questions and the guys will answer you. They aren't psychic as to your needs and wants. Everyone has bad days. Bike shop workers are people, too.
Thanks to the Bent Spoke!
PS for those searching for a bike: I did lots of research, visiting numerous bike shops in the bay area. I chose the BS for price and quality. I started out wanting to spend less than $300. However, as my sole means of transportation, I settled for $400 (expect another $100 or so for accessories, helmet, etc.) -
Review from Mark H.
Berkeley, CA
10/26/2009
I like this shop. The folks who work there are good folks, and they did an excellent job building up a mountain bike for me. And I didn't have to suffer any attitude!
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Review from maggie l.
Oakland, CA
3/6/2009
So, if you have a few bikes or like several kinds of riding, you are going to need to frequent several different bike shops to find everything you need. But whoever you are, you need a shop like the bent spoke, because at some point you will need some stupid little part or have some stupid little thing go just a wee bit wrong on your bicycle, and were you to go to a high-end shop (and I have my favorite of those, they do have their purpose in this world) they would try to convince you that you need ten more parts and two more days of service, because your bike is "just old, and doesn't work very well because of that, so you need new stuff"... grumble. My old ten-speed is a perfectly respectable means of transportation, thank you very much. At the bent spoke, you will find, either new or used, just the little parts that you need and not get people trying to up-sell you. True, the employees would like to help you as little as humanly possible, but i prefer that to the hard-sell when all i need is two friggin bolts.
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Review from brooke a.
Oakland, CA
6/7/2008
these guys were superfriendly and helpful. i probably spent more than i should have but am totally happy with what i got (new wheels, tubes, brake pads, u-lock). and i love that they sell kryptonite locks- i prefer kryptonite over onguard and find it hard to find in this town.
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Review from Moana S.
Los Angeles, CA
12/14/2008
I like going to the bent spoke for my repairs, they are fast, knowledgeable and cheap. They are generally nice, though sometimes can be real bike snobs.
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Review from two w.
Berkeley, CA
5/4/2009
this shop is a great, mom-n-pop operation. the owner's a friendly wheeler-n-dealer (in a good way) and loves what he does. he has an exclusive scratch-n-dent deal with bianchi, and gets quality used bikes from police auctions. the deals are damn good. he runs an honest business, and has a strict policy that guarantees he sells only NONstolen used bikes (as opposed to karim's cycles, which buys used bikes from anyone off the street). the manager is very helpful, knowledgeable and super nice, he's been there for 5 years or so. the mechanics are mostly generally willing, helpful, and friendly (except for the fill-in head mechanic (kurt), who has terrible interpersonal skills and is rude to customers and looks like he just crawled out of a dumpster.
kurt gives a higher-than-thou attitude unless you're a cute punk girl who he is interested in or wanna hear him ramble on about his racing or worldly bike touring (yawn). but generally, this guy has terrible customer service skills and if you stand too close you realize he hasn't used soap in years.
overall this berkeley shop is awesome, just avoid talking to the tall dingy mechanic guy kurt in the back.
timm builds bomb-proof wheels and and the rest of staff rock and will go out of their way for you (even if you aren't a cute punk girl, in which case ask for kurt in the back). -
Review from Harold L.
Albany, CA
7/14/2009
Very friendly, knowledgeable, not crowded. Couldn't have asked for more.
