Do you know your bike shop? When you walk in with a problem, do you feel completely confident that they will understand what you need and fix it quickly? Do you trust them?
This might just be me, but I don’t always know the correct terminology for every piece and part on my bike. Heck, sometimes after a long winter season of not riding, I can’t even remember the model of my bike when put on the spot – it’s a Santa Cruz Tallboy, I think. Things like that don’t roll off the tongue for me. I will never be that person that can spout all the specs and angles of the bike. Not knowing everything used to make me feel embarrassed and I was not confident bringing my own bike into a bike shop. It’s also the reason I make my husband schedule my car service, but I don’t feel that way when it comes to Colorado Backcountry Biker.
I can bring in all of my problems without fear of sounding like a newb, even if I still do! The staff has been incredibly friendly and non-judgmental. They have become great friends of mine, who only now make fun of me for dramatically acting out that horrible noise my bike keeps making (It’s like a screechy thumping sound?). Even with my terrible diagnosis, they are able to figure it out and get it fixed quickly and for a fair price.
In addition to the utter lack of caring about how little I know about my own bike, they carry a HUGE selection of women-specific clothing. Racer-back tank tops, different types of chamois that actually fit my non-ballerina legs, and shorts that come in more colors than black. Don’t get me wrong – I love me some black base pieces! Matching my outfits is hard enough for work, I don’t want to have to do it when I ride too, but having the option of bike clothing that is just for women and in multiple colors is just fantastic!
Also, if you really want something, the guys in the shop are more than happy to order it for you. It only takes a few days, and they really don’t mind. It’s just nice having a local bike shop that doesn’t judge you for what you ride, what you wear, and what you know (or don’t). If you’re looking for a new shop, check out CBB. The staff will make you feel comfortable and not pressured to “ride a certain way.”
– Laura, Fruita, CO
