Bay Area's Best Bike Shops
(credit: DIMITAR DILKOFF/AFP/Getty Images)
Enthusiasm for biking continues to soar in the Bay Area, and a number of shops cater to those weekend warriors that can be seen on streets, trails and back roads all across Northern California. The staff of Eye on the Bay and some insightful Yelp reviews have helped us track down the best stores to get you in gear. Here's what we found:
Valencia Cyclery
1077 Valencia Street
San Francisco, CA
(415) 550-6600
valenciacyclery.com
This Mission District shop is an institution on the San Francisco bike scene. The sore has been picked as the best in town by SF Weekly, The Examiner and The Bay Guardian. Yelpers say the selection is hard to beat in the city, and the store is a great place to find bikes for your kids.
Bicycle Express
131 E William St
San Jose, CA
(408) 998-1618
bicycleexpress.net
Yelpers say this store operates at the emergency room for South Bay cyclists. The inventory is huge, and the atmosphere can be hectic when business is brisk. The shop is located just a pedal push or two from the San Jose State Campus, and offers reasonably priced tune-ups and basic maintenance.
My Dutch Bike
575 Market Street
San Francisco, CA
(415) 644-0331
mydutchbike.com
This unique retailer was featured on a recent episode of Eye on the Bay because of their "cargo and transport" offerings. These bikes are not for racing or off-roading, but if you are looking for a bike that is part work vehicle, part art piece these rides fit the bill. Be prepared to pay a bit more than you would for an entry-level bike.
Alameda Bicycle
1522 Park St.
Alameda, CA
(510) 522 - 0070
alamedabicycle.com
Amid the bustle of Alameda's Park Street, this local shop creates a laid back yet professional vibe. Yelpers say the staff is as knowledgeable and attentive as they come, but the store does get some critics who say they cater a little too heavily to road cyclists and men.
Mikes Bikes
836 Fourth St.
San Rafael, CA
(415) 454-3747
Mikes Bikes
Mike's has a great selection of bikes, tools and accessories available at have several locations throughout Northern California. The prices are competitive with other local shops and their staff knows what they are talking about. Check out their website for a wealth of information about riding in Northern California, and check out their internet-only specials.
