Cycling is an extremely emotive subject, it’s personal, like choosing a partner, the fit has to be ‘just so’ in every way – even when it comes to your favourite shops. So, don’t go-a-blaming me if you’re reading this with a shake of the head because I didn’t include Cavendish Cycles or somewhere equally as decent. Service, quality and style – when it comes to the crunch, they all count. Greg LeMond rules OK!
Lock 7
This tiny café and repair shop has recently undergone some refurbishment that’s taken it to the next level. The level of ‘yes, I’d definitely take my bike there!’ Plonked next to the canal at the bottom of Broadway Market, one of its greatest successes has been to remain free; free from an attitude that such a desirable location could inspire. Bravo! And bravo for the quick drop in jobs you do, your reasonable prices and your appreciation of beautiful old bikes.
Brixton Cycles
This one has history. Set up in the eighties with the idea of providing Brixton with some community cycle care, Brixton Cycles is a workers co-op that offers some of the best service south of the river. Buy anything from commuter bikes to racers, as well as skateboards and longboards and never look back – unless your cycling of course, then always look back, and right, and left, and forwards.
Squeaky Chains
Another community choice now because that’s just the way I get down. Squeaky Chains is different to most businesses in that it’s completely non-profit, it’s aim to provide for the community around it and offer the less fortunate a little fortune. An excellent team of mechanics keeps the Southwark store ticking over and if you’re in the market for a second hand bike and don’t fancy supporting bike theft (NEVER support bike theft!) then this is the place.
Brick Lane Bikes
According to the rumour mill, the service at Brick Lane Bikes is up and down, but having offered my patronage a number of times I can only say good things. The collection of vintage racing frames alone makes this one of London’s best bike shops but add its ability to acquire specialist parts and accessories and we’ve got us a doozy. Too cool for school? School sucks!
Condor Cycles
Not many stores have their own pro team, but then Condor is more than just a store. A personal favourite, despite the obvious style and finesse of their own range of bikes they never fail to make a beaten up old racer feel at home. Come for the repairs and stay for the array of Condor frames, displayed to get your mouth watering - they'll cost you more than some cars but who needs a car in London? And when you're in need of some cycling apparel that skirts the boundaries between Lycra-clad road hog and chic velo enthusiast, the Rapha range is numero uno!
