Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Green Machine Cycles on July 1, 2013 at 10:40am

To be fair, David, Chicago's recent round of community bike shops and earn-a-bike programs started at Blackstone Bicycle Works in around 1996 or so, despite what their current website says.

David of the North (David606xx) said:

I swear by Uptown for anything I need to buy, but you should also know about the terrific open shops here in town where you can do it all yourself!

The Recyclery is up north--http://www.therecyclery.org/

West Town Bikes is where it all started--http://westtownbikes.org/

Both are huge assets to the community.  Classes are available to teach you how to do any and everything to your bike.  Open Shop nights offer all the tools you need and expert advice on whatever you're trying to do. I haven't gone to a mechanic in years since I found out about these folks.

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Permalink Reply by Anne Alt on July 1, 2013 at 12:50pm

From my years in Rogers Park, I'd agree with Duppie's recommendations.

Duppie 13.5185km said:

Welcome to the neighborhood!

Living in A'ville for 13 years now. There are definitely a few good shops in that area.

Uptown Bikes. 4653 North Broadway Street. Hands down best bike shop on the north side, especially if you are just looking to get your bike tuned up. They don't oversell you or upsell you. They don't talk down to you. They are affordable and they are women owned and women managed

Johnny Sprockets. Good shop too, although sometimes I feel like they can talk down to me.

Roberts cycles. 7054 North Clark Street One of the oldest shops in town. Never really been there myself, but here good things about.

Turin. 4710 N Damen Ave. Opened last week or so. It's a reincarnation of the old Turin shop in Evanston. Haven't been there, but if they are anything like the old one, they are going to be great.

Gary's Cycle shop. 6317 North Clark Street. I would avoid it. Too much of a putz, and doesn't stand behind his product. My wife once had her bike overhauled. When she picked it up, the bottom bracket made a creaking noise. When she got back to him, he said that was how she brought it in.

Shining bikes and thing. Bryn Mawr and Western. Avoid at all costs. Bike community suspects that he sells stolen bikes.

Whatever you decide on, try to pick one that you are comfortable with and stick with them. Introduce yourself, so they recognize you. Most bike shops will treat their regulars well.

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Permalink Reply by Green Machine Cycles on December 18, 2013 at 1:34pm

...and as of just a few months ago, Green Machine Cycles at 1634 W Montrose, Chicago's cargo bike central, in the heart of the bike-friendly 47th ward. Full service, utility-focused, bringing cargo to the masses, or masses to the cargo, perhaps. 

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