Thanksgiving is here, so holiday shopping can’t be far behind. And like many people, you may be thinking of purchasing a bicycle for someone special. Perhaps it’s for a child just starting out, a serious mountain biker, busy commuter or simply for someone to cruise around town. Bikes make great gifts, but there are a few things to consider before heading to a store, so it’s best to consult a local dealer who understands the type of rider you’ll be buying for.
Fortunately, here in Culver City, we have several bike shops to help you and – even better – each specializes in a different type of cycling, making it easy to get good advice. From entry level to affordable to recreational and high-end, Chubby’s Cruisers, Palms Cycle, Wheel World and SportEve all offer good selections, are privately owned and staffed with knowledgeable sales people. Most also offer bicycle coalition member discounts.
Following is a brief guide to bike selection and an introduction to two of the shops, so, happy shopping:
The most important things to consider when buying a bicycle are: Who will be riding and where. Entry level bikes, urban commuting, competitive riding (road or mountain) require very different types of bikes. Some questions to keep in mind: Who are you buying for and why? (Is this a first bike for a child or a cruiser for your spouse?) How fit is the rider? Where will they ride and what type of terrain (mountain trails, bike path, city streets) will they encounter? How often will they ride?
Next is your budget. A basic beach cruiser might start around $125, while a quality road bike could costs thousands, so like any purchase, know what you want to spend before stepping into a store. Types of frames, wheels and components can make a huge difference in price. Knowing who you are buying for and your budget, will allow you to better compare bike styles and features.
Third is fit. For safety and comfort, it is important a bike fits and feels right. Each type of bike has a different riding style and frame geometry, so there is no one rule for bike sizing. However, on any bike, you should be able to do the following: 1) stand over the top tube comfortably (the bar between the seat post and handlebars), ideally, with at least one to two inches of clearance; 2) sit on the seat and touch the ground easily with one foot while the other is on the pedal in the “two o’clock” position; 3) easily reach the handlebars and brakes while seated.
So, now you know who you are buying for, where they will ride, your budget and sizing basics so now, where to shop? Faceless stores may offer “specials” but you’re not likely to get personalized service to help you find the right bike, and they certainly won’t be able to service your bike in the future. Buying from a local dealer offers many advantages and many offer a free tune-up in the first year after purchase – important because your cables and shifters will need adjustment after you’ve been riding a while. This week, we introduce you to two local mainstays: Palms Cycle and Chubby’s Cruisers.
Palms Cycle, originally on Main Street, now on Motor Avenue – 3770 Motor Ave., Los Angeles, (310) 838-9644 – has been a staple in Culver City since the 1930s. In 1965, Billie Rancier purchased the store and it’s been a family business ever since, with her son Cap working in the store as a teenager before taking over and eventually, turning over the reigns to his daughter Candace. In the 1970s, when BMX-style riding took off, Palms Cycle became a hangout for kids. That tradition continues today, as Palms Cycle is a hub of activity for riders on their fixed-gear bikes. On most afternoons, you can find several young boys and girls hanging outside in the lounge behind the shop, trying new tricks. This often takes customers by surprise, but owner Rancier, a mother of two school-age children, says, “When the movement took off, we were fortunate to become a hub of activity and I was happy to provide a safe place for them to chill, where I can offer support and encouragement rather than being out on the streets.” And it’s worked because now Palms Cycle sponsors a pro fixed-gear team, Palms Cycle FixTrick Team, featuring nationally ranked riders Rory McDermott and Michael Chacon (palmscycledfixtrickteam.blogspot.com/).
The shop is adorned with Cap Rancier’s collection of vintage bikes (including a turn-of-the-century penny-farthing) and an inside lounge area, providing a comfortable and laid-back shopping environment. With a nice selection of cool, fixed-gear and BMX bikes, it’s easy to see why they have the attention of young riders, yet Palms Cycle actually specializes in commuter bikes. From entry-level “townies” to more seriously outfitted rides to get you through city traffic and potholes, this is a good place to start if urban riding is your goal. Palms Cycle also has a full service department with expert technicians ready to work on any bike.
Planning to stay on the bike path or in your neighborhood? Looking for a bike with gears in the single digits? A beach cruiser may be the perfect fit, and when it comes to beach cruisers, there is no better place than Chubby’s Cruisers – 5431 Sepulveda Blvd., Culver City, (310) 751-6162. Known around the world for their great selection and low prices, Chubby’s is a hub of activity, especially on weekends.
Ten years ago, when owner Nicole Alamillo could not find a beach cruiser for under $350, she started buying used bikes and parts and selling them out of her backyard. With the intent of offering “affordable family fun,” Alamillo started Chubby’s in 2002 against all odds. Thinking a shop specializing in cruisers would not survive, the bike industry didn’t take her seriously at first. But Nicole has proven them wrong. Today, her customers range from young adults and families looking for uncomplicated and stylish rides, to airline employees stopping by for a bargain to take home.
Alamillo says she wants to have that unforgettable shop that was part of many of our childhoods. “I remember buying my first bike at Wheel World and the memories that came with those first wheels,” she recalls. “I want to be that shop for today’s generation.” And why not? The store is packed with low- and mid-range street cruisers, adult tricycles, kids bikes and now they carry Extracycles for adults wanting something more substantial to handle daily errands.
This holiday season, if bikes are on your shopping list, shop local. You’ll get a better bike, better service, a shop to stand behind the warranty and likely save some money as well. In addition, both Palms Cycle and Chubby’s have supported Culver City community events
including the Fiesta La Ballona bike valet (Palms). Supporting them for their efforts is the best way to say thanks.
Next week, we’ll look at higher level bikes at Wheel World and SportEve.
Bike Safe, Bike Smart! is a weekly column to promote responsible cycling by providing information, education and advice about riding. It’s written by members of the Culver City Bicycle Coalition (CCBC), a local chapter of the Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition. Join them each month for their family bike ride. The next ride is Saturday, Dec. 10. For more information, visit ccbike.org or contact them at ccbicyclecoalition@gmail.com.