DailyBicycle.com
by Oliver Carbonell
NYC Velo Bike Shop
What I first noticed about NYC Velo is it blended quite nicely with the earthy stores and restaurants flanking its 2nd avenue home in Mahnattan’s east village neighborhood. I’m impressed by its confident presence among the established small businesses that surround it. For a mid to high-end bike shop, it seems to belong just where it is. Being a lover of bikes and bike shops, I walked in for a self-tour. What I had liked from the outside I began to love from the inside! After a quick run-through of the bikes that lined the brick walls I noticed that none of the brands were from the two industry heavyweights; Specialized and Trek. I didn’t see a single bike from the two titans. What I did see were brands like Turner, Independent Fabrication, Salsa, Felt, Swobo, Surly, Civia and even an old Fat Chance mountain bike. But the bike selection wasn’t the only thing that caught my attention. There’s also an interesting selection of clothing on the center island. The NYC Velo wool jerseys are pretty cool, I’m thinking of picking one up for warmth during my cold winter rides throughout the city. The NYC Velo logo’d t-shirts using quality American Apparel garb are something I’d wear too because they look cool and feel comfy! The staff, while friendly enough, has a bit of an edge to their attitudes but I can expect that from a bike shop in the lower East Village. It’s understandable. But they’re helpful if you express interest and they’re also knowledgeable about the brands they carry. As of this writing, I haven’t had to take my bike in for servicing so I can’t comment on the wrenching at this shop. Have you taken your bike in for repair at this shop? How would you rate the level of skill and service?
Bottom line: Visit this shop if you want to see unique bikes and cycling clothes.
NYC Velo
64 2nd Avenue
NY, NY 10003
212-253-7771
Website: www.nycvelo.com
Copyright 2009 DailyBicycle
