It's OFFICIAL! I'm going to be an LBS owner! [Archive]

Running Mommy

10-10-2007, 07:54 PM

I don't know if I should pee myself from excitement or fear, but we put the deposit down on a space today.:) :eek: :)
The lease will be signed as soon as the City gives our landlord the final final on the building (main final already done, so this is the very last step before occupancy).... aka the secret handshake...

So now I get to call my Giant and Felt Reps and tell em "Time to get a move on boys... I need BIKES"!!! :D
And then QBP, and then the POS guy, and then the fixture dude, and the Insurance lady, and then, and then, and then..... OY! When am I going to have time to ride my OWN bike?? :o
ahhh well, I guess that's what happens when you go into business for yourself huh?? :p

So tell me, if you were starting your own shop, what would YOU carry??
It's going to be interesting because in a lot of ways I think my customer is going to be your average non (or not very often) cyclist who just wants a comfy bike to cruise around on. And also parents buying their kid a bike. BUT I don't want to ignore the higher end customer either. It's going to be a hard balance.
One thing I do know, is everyone I speak with around here wants me to carry some higher end stuff. They are tired of the same old same old that they see at performance.
I think it's going to be a tough balance at first, but hopefully we will find our way without falling on too many land mines... :rolleyes:

LBTC

10-10-2007, 08:10 PM

Hey, RM! Congratulations! Great news!!

To answer your question...
DH says:

Make sure you have a line that has everything from the kids bikes to the high end bikes - like Giant or Specialized or Trek or Jamis (great bang for the buck). That's your bread and butter.

Maybe consider a Canadian brand like Rocky Mountain or DeVinci or Norco. Something that isn't seen down there much.

There's lots of really high end bikes too: Scott, Litespeed, Felt, Cervelo. Your market will help you determine which, and this won't be the majority of your sales. Those Canadian bikes I mentioned have a full range, too, so they are the unusual (we are assuming they aren't seen much down there) bike that you can still get in high end.

Carry some jewelry. My friend makes some. :) http://www.recycledacc.com/home

So, really, what I want to know is, what can you get me in a small (smaller than a Giant small) carbon road bike? :rolleyes:

Will TE sisters get a discount? ;) Can you carry the AV jerseys and gear?? :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

Well, I know, I'm far too jazzed and coming up with crazy ideas for you. But I'm really excited for you and can't wait to see how you put it all together!

You rock!!

Hugs and butterflies,
~T~

KnottedYet

10-10-2007, 08:13 PM

Alllllll riiiiiiight!!!!!!!!!!:D

annie

10-10-2007, 08:15 PM

OMG!!!!:eek: :D :D

Just want to congratulate you, RM! Such a dream come true. You will learn so much in the coming months, tho' it sounds like you've already got an idea of your customer base - good!! Wishing you the best!

Annie

onimity

10-10-2007, 08:18 PM

Hi RM,

Congrats!!! Starting your own business *is* scary, but it pays off!

Keep in mind that if you cultivate a love for cycling in your 'cruiser' customers that you can eventually sell them high-end bikes.

Also, the bike commuter is the oft-overlooked customer, I think. I'd be tempted to carry commute bikes and gear too (or utility) and make it very clear to your customers that you can order whatever they want for them. Be responsive when parts come in...

Here, a big thing is hours. There are now only 2 bike shops open past the time (6:00) that I can get home from work. They get a lot of default business that I'd rather give to my favorite LBS, but... they are open.

My advice would be to keep it simple at first; ask your customers what *they* would like you to carry & take their suggestions seriously.

If I were running a store I'd carry Kona too. My LBS is Giant/Felt/Kona...I *love* my Kona. I loved my last one too. :)

IMO, freebies/discounts go a long way. You have to be careful that you aren't costing yourself too much, but I 'found' my LBS because my sis took them a her newly-purchased bike when she was in college & when she picked it up they charged her 1/3 or what she was expecting, said it didn't need a full tuneup. Between us we've since bought 4 bikes from them...and lots of other stuff...They're also really good about offering a discount on parts/accessories for the first month after you buy a bike from them...a good incentive to come back.

Anyhow, just some ideas...I am sure you'll do great! Congrats!!! Please post pictures as you set the shop up!

Anne

Wahine

10-10-2007, 08:33 PM

RM - all I have time for right now is a big congratulations!! You'll be a great LBS owner.

Zen

10-10-2007, 08:38 PM

I'm so happy for you! You must be about to burst with excitement!

light_sabe_r

10-10-2007, 08:58 PM

HELMETS!!!!

*sorry - CONGRATULATIONS RUNNING MUMMY!!!!*

Now what was I saying??? What would I stock??

-Jerseys that aren't PLAIN
-Decent Knicks
-HELMETS - Range everything from the under $20 ones up to the high end roadie.
- Sunnies. BBB do a great range that go from cheapies with interchangeable lenses all the way up to the $300 models.
ACCESSORIES!!!!

I tell you, GLOVES are one thing that Annoy me at Bike shops. i've only ever seen ONE shop with a range bigger than an A4 piece of paper. :P

May be a side note, But I LOVE browsing through Victor's "library" whilst shopping. They have subscriptions to all the major cycling magazines from Australia and Europe and it's a good place to start looking for things.\

Victors also have a "try before you buy." You have a shop floor bike model you can hire out for the day if people wanna take for a decent ride. They also have accessories like the eggbeater pedals etc for clients to practice on to see if they're worth the change before buying a brand new pair. (or things like saddles!!!

Just an idea...

Eden

10-10-2007, 09:20 PM

Congrats!
the first thing that comes to mind is lots of different tube sizes - and stem lengths, sometimes it can be a right pain to find 650 tubes with extra long valve stems for my Deep V's... (Performance certainly doesn't carry them)

I'd say don't try to carry everything under the sun, but be willing to order it... (my LBS can get most anything you want in a few days even though his shop is only a bit bigger than a large closet)

*slightly random musings follow*

Try to stock the things that people generally don't want to or can't wait for - like helmets, when you break one you need to replace it right away, cleats of all types even if you don't specifically carry the pedals, cable and housing, simple sturdy tools and things that big box stores might not have - grocery panniers - the kind that fold down when you aren't using them, a selection of nicer fenders, cool bar tape......

Kano

10-10-2007, 09:30 PM

Congratulations!

So, here's my suggestion: clothes for people bigger than matchsticks!

Karen in Boise

teigyr

10-10-2007, 09:33 PM

Congrats!!! That is awesome.

Let's see...I'd say to use your knowledge in what you've done. As a woman doing sporting events, you know the frustrations of finding appropriate equipment and clothing that fits and doesn't ride up :o A variety of bike levels is good too, of course. It's unfortunate but the bulk of your business might come from low-end bikes. I think your most rewarding experiences (emotionally, at least) will be in your mid to upper price range.

DH says that good service is important. The bike shops we like going to are the ones who take care of us. We like to know they care and it's nice when we're recognized.

You must be sooooo excited!

Running Mommy

10-10-2007, 09:39 PM

Thanks for all the well wishes.. AND thanks for the suggestions. They are great! Keep em coming!

I'm going to host two get togethers and solicit some ideas of what folks want in their LBS.
First we have our local tri club, which is also a cycling club by default. No real cycling club up here, so our Sunday morning ride is a mash up of cyclists and tri folks. We are a friendly bunch who loves an excuse to get together. I'm going to have a bbq to formally announce the shop, and ask for them to fill out a little form telling me what they would like to see in a shop.

Also, we have a BMX track up here, so I plan to do the same sort of thing. I want to host something for the club and see what the kids are looking for. After spending some time in the BMX zone at Interbike I realized I had NO CLUE what our kids would be looking for! :confused:

I know I can't be everthing to everyone, but I need to be diverse since we really are the only game in town... Unless of course you count "evergreen lawn equipment and bicycles"... ;)
Yep- the Toro mowers are right next to the comfort bikes (all ten of them).... heh heh heh

crazycanuck

10-10-2007, 09:58 PM

Hey RM

Great news for you on the bike shop front. I'll go to my lbs & see what they have and then I might offer some suggestions.

Does this mean my dealer will get cliff bloks at great prices :p heeee heee

C

smilingcat

10-10-2007, 10:03 PM

Congratulation... My only gripe with most cycling shop has been the cloth!! just smattering and nothing interesting to catch ones eye. And a fitting room to try the jersey, pants...

I've heard Orbea is terrible about supplying bikes to the shops. I've heard it from several shops. Also you might need to sell it on the internet or even possibly on e-bay store. The two shops I like have a web site. Both are updated monthly.

They both offer training class from the total newbies to those who are serious about racing.

I'm sure you have lots of great ideas.

smilingcat

alpinerabbit

10-11-2007, 12:09 AM

How about sponsoring a club?

My LBS sponsors a Tri club (mine actually) - we get some discounts.

He gripes that we don't shop with him often enough (he does only have Trek racing bikes and not everyone wants a Trek). At least the club gear is cool...
http://img266.imageshack.us/img266/5302/zueritri075gfq1.jpg

lph

10-11-2007, 12:18 AM

Congratulations RM, that is AWESOME! :)

Based on my own gripes with bike shops I'd say: don't stock the earth, but have catalogues easily available for browsing and be willing to order. Be scrupulous about notifying your customers whenever whatsit comes in!!! I love it when my lbs manages to send me a text message. Which is about half the time..

Recognize that some commuters (like me) can have a (slightly pathetic) addiction to their "work horses". If you promise to fix x,y or z in the course of the work day, they (I) can get very antsy if that doesn't happen... :o
But maybe you're not planning on mechanics.

I agree on stocking everything a biker needs fast. And that interesting clothing is a great way to get people to hang around and browse. Good luck! How exciting! :D

Mr. Bloom

10-11-2007, 12:49 AM

Congrats! Now the fun begins!

I'm not qualified to tell you what to stock, however, my experience in business compels me to say the following:

Stock what you can SELL. Slow moving inventory is cash tied up in something you can't pay rent with...I like lph's comment of "don't stock the earth"...as Eden said "be willing to order it".
Decide who your customer is and cater well to their needs. I like the posted ideas of "team endearment"
Unless you have plenty of cash, don't go to town with sponsorships unless you're sure you'll get a return on the contributions. Give discounts when you know you'll make it up on volume. (If you have plenty of cash, forget all the advice...just do what you want!)
Build, preserve, and protect an email list. It's a cheap way for targeted marketing. You'll want a database of customers - addresses, preferences, etc. I think there are some LBS specific software packages out there...information on your customers add umph to marketing.
Communicate with your customers, let them know the status of their orders, remembering that service and experience are your 'value propositions' that differentiate you from the mass retailer.
Have a "two minute drill" that is part of your sales pitch explaining why someone should buy from you. Based on what you've said, whether they say it or not, a lot of your prospects will be with folks who don't differeniate product quality...just price. Whether they express it or not, they'll be thinking they can get a better price somewhere else...and you have to sell them on why they get more for your price. It's intuitive to you...but you have to convince them.
Remember that the www allows you to have a customer base that is anywhere. It's a way to leverage more volume through your existing overhead.

I wish you the best! It sounds exciting!

PS: Before she hits me up...No Silver:eek: , you can't have an LBS!:D

Thorn

10-11-2007, 03:26 AM

Everyone said it pretty well. I really like the post that said make sure you have a good selection of "gotta have it today" items like helmets and cleats. But, make sure it is very obvious to your customers that you can order anything and what your turnaround is. Make it easy to order with you and make sure the customer knows you'll help them with decisions and tradeoffs.

Personally, more than what you carry is how you carry your shop. But, from what I've read from you about your road here, that probably goes without saying.

We have a bike store here that is lovely--lots of bikes and stuff; well arranged. Oh, and they happen to have a repair stand in the back. Shopping there is only slightly better than shopping at a big box, but it is very popular with the non-riders or once-a-month riders.

There was another shop I used to use. Much smaller stock, but a knowledgable staff and a couple of solid mechanics in the back. They are a great shop if you never step outside their area of expertise or their stock. Until recently, they were my favorite shop.

Recently, I found a shop with a slightly disshevelled store front area. They've been there 3 years, but it looks like they just moved in. I think I'm in love :rolleyes: When I walked in the door, I was worried; when the 20-something referred me to a late 20-something manager I was terrified, but these guys were great. They listened, they worked with me and when I asked a question that the two other shops laughed and me and said was impossible, he laughed and said "No problem" and went on to explain how it could be done.

So, my point in the rambling? Have enough stock and colors to make it warm and inviting. Make it clear you'll go the extra mile for the customer. Find a good wrench who looks forward to a challenge. And, as an oddly sized person, to me, a great bike store should have a fit system of some sort and a relationship with a custom frame builder. Not every bike I ride has to be a perfect fit, but I need to know that the shop knows enough about fit that people trust them to help order a custom frame.

Good luck! Sounds like fun! (and a lot of work)

redrhodie

10-11-2007, 04:10 AM

Congratulations!!!

Will you have mechanics on staff? Make sure they're the best. It won't hurt if they're cute, too ;) !

Make sure you carry enough mediums! I notice that the sales wracks are full of xl and xs sizes.

Try to have different brands from the other shops in your area.

Don't try to have everything for everyone, but it's great if you can order things you don't stock. I will often have my LBS order things I know I can get from a catalog myself, as they don't charge me shipping costs, which is a savings.

A water cooler and a clean bathroom would be really nice, especially if you're on a good cycling route.

Have fun!!!!

Tri Girl

10-11-2007, 04:38 AM

Oh RM that's soooooo exciting!!!! :D :D :D

Ok- first I want to know what the name is going to be. I'm a name kind of gal and that always makes me want to walk into a store.

Everyone has said great things.
I would suggest giving a 10% discount to the local tri club members (discounts are good, and sometimes it draws more members into the club if they know they can get a discount at an LBS). It's the reason I shop at my favorite LBS as opposed to the one closest to my house (10% is a lot sometimes).

Also, since you're a woman in the biz- I think it'll make women feel more comfortable. I was intimidated in my favorite LBS the first time I went in because it was all guys. Then a woman came up while I was talking to the owner about a bike and she started talking to me and it put me at ease. Maybe that's dumb, but a woman's prescence (who knows what she's talking about) made me feel instantly comfortable.

Also- will you have a website. Cuz you KNOW we'd buy from you if you did!!!

And the hours- good point!!! My LBS is open 10-6 M-Sat. Great for him, but not so great for me. I can only ever go on Saturday (when I'd rather be doing something else). If his hours were 11-7, that would work out a little better for those of us who have to work later or drive farther to work. Just a thought.

One more thing: my LBS has weekly club rides from his store (once a week). The meet at the store 15 min. before it closes (gives riders time to buy those last minute things before the ride- like Clif bar or a spare tube).
Might be a good way to bring people in. Could be a family ride, or a roadie/tri ride. Or both!

I've got ideas, but don't want to be typing all day. I like that you'll ask the clubs what they'd like to see.

Tuckervill

10-11-2007, 04:56 AM

Congratulations! My town could use a bike shop. I don't want to be tied to a retail establishment, but I've put some thought into opening one. It would have to sell used bikes, too, because people here will balk at a $250 bike.

I think sterling customer service is the first order of business.

Then a good mechanic.

Lots of variety of small parts that you can only get in big cities (ferrules, etc.) Display them.

Three bike shops were out of the proper size tubes we needed before our big ride a couple of weeks ago. How can you be OUT of tubes with Presta valves? Keep lots of them in stock--you KNOW when the local events are, so plan ahead for runs on popular items.

I second the thing about gloves. It's always hit or miss finding gloves I like and that fit.

I'm not too concerned about available jerseys because I've never been in a shop with good selection in all sizes. It's seldom anything I have to have right away, so I can order online. But having a selection in all sizes for the guy who came from out of town and forgot his jersey...that's good.

Don't be offended by the person who works on their own bikes, or let them believe you think their work is inferior to yours. It may be BETTER than yours. They'll never let you work on their bike anyway, but if you're nice to them they will buy parts from you.

A thing that is often overlooked--passive education for the bike-curious. Unlike my child who can tell the difference between Power Rangers by the color of their nose, many of us can't immediately see the differences between bikes when they're all lined up on the rack. A chart would be helpful, that describes the differences between road, mountain, hybrid, cruiser. All the maker's websites have something like that. Sometimes you have to hunt for it. Don't make me hunt for it. Charts that rank quality of components in some way. Don't make someone ask for basic information if they don't know. This is how you get new riders.

I think an education campaign would set you APART from all the other shops. Bike safety information. Options for riding with a child. How to change a flat and other DIY repairs. If you make it passive and graphical, you don't have to spend a lot of time on it, like you would if you did clinics, or had to answer the same questions over and over. Many people don't know what they don't know. Posters or pamphlets ("Which type of bike is right for you?" "How to Ride Safely on the Highway.") would be very helpful. MAPS of the local trails, not just "Oh, you mean the Merrymeet Loop?", like I got in Maine. (They didn't know the name of the streets, even though they were right on the loop.)

I would have spent hours in a shop that made information easy to get. The more time I spend in a shop the more likely I am to spend money there.

Oh, just lots of lots of LUCK to you! I wish for every success to come your way!

Karen

Torrilin

10-11-2007, 05:03 AM

Superfeet insoles.

Bungee cargo nets.

Tire pressure gauges that aren't attached to bike pumps.

The little reflector strips for keeping pants legs out of bike chains.

BROOKS!

Stock a cheap commuter bike that's not a piece of crap. Maybe a Redline 925, or used 3 speeds. Something that works well in your area gearing-wise and that can haul a bit and won't need a ton of extras to be a useful bike. If you can commute by bike to the shop, do. Your customers will love your expertise. Also, they'll keep coming in because they need some weird little thingie for commuting and they *know* you can get it for them. Add on sales are your friend.

I'm a commuter/utility biker with one bike. If I call a shop about maintenance, I'll say I've got one bike and ask how we can arrange it so I get my bike back the same day. It's not I need to be first in line or anything; it's I don't have a car. I need my wheels :).

Real parking. Y'know, for bikes. All the shops around here do have bike parking, but it's mostly very icky racks that are hard to park at. Can't blame them, the racks all seem to be a good 20 years old :D. But you're doing a new shop so maybe you can have better designed racks.

One of the shops in town has an air compressor labeled "free air", fitted up for presta and schraeder valves. Very thoughtful. I would spend more money there, but I can never find anyone to take it. So then I end up going to the other bike shop where there is always someone to take my money.

KnottedYet

10-11-2007, 05:20 AM

Kona
Surly
Brooks (maybe just a set of saddles for folks to try, and you order the one they want)

TOOLS! Several varieties of tire lever (like the Crank Bros Speedlever) and shapes of Allen wrench (Ts, Ls, foldy-things) Leathermen, pedal wrenches. Pressure gauges. The sorts of thing the average Joe can be told to use or would cheerfully buy so they'll have a spare.

Cold pop. My LBS has a fridge full of canned pop for $1. I'm always surprised by how many cans of pop they sell while I'm there.

Good bike parking.

Clean bathroom.

Classes at the shop.

Rides starting from the shop.

Socks with your logo and shop name on the cuff.

Hub

10-11-2007, 05:30 AM

Congratulations!

So, here's my suggestion: clothes for people bigger than matchsticks!

Karen in Boise

Double Ditto!
and congrats!

Are you buying an existing shop? Starting a brand new one? Going to have a shoppable web-site to go with?

Running Mommy

10-11-2007, 06:56 AM

I'm LOVING it!! Keep em coming!

And for those who asked.. Tri girl??

The name is Estrella Mountain Cyclery. (pronounced Es-STRAY-a)

Goodyear is at the base of the Sierra Estrellas. A rugged desert mountain range southwest of Phoenix proper.
There is a large master planned community that's in the foothills of the Estrellas called "estrella mountain ranch" or "estrella".

You can get an idea of the area by checking out this link.

http://estrella.com/

This is actually where I live.
I'll try to attach our logo, but don't know if I can....

And yes we have a website, but it was a very quick affair set up in about an hour to satisfy the folks at Interbike that we ARE legit. I'll have it fixed up once we get going. I'm not sure about web sales tho, esp. bikes. Bike companies are very strict about that.

4562

Flybye

10-11-2007, 07:29 AM

You are in for such an adventure! How you must feel.... I would be willing to bet that your thoughts are racing a million miles an hour trying to think it all through! I am very excited for you and yours!

We have a LBS that is called Alpine Cycle and FITNESS!!!

I can not believe the number of fitness items that fly out of the shops- they carry NICE ellipticals - not like the ones you'd purchase at a Wal-Mart. They also have spin bikes, treadmills, recumbent stationary bikes, stationary bikes, etc. I have only been in the shop twice when there was no one interested in the fitness end of the store. I guess it is the old adage "don't put all of your eggs in one basket" If it were me, I'd make sure to offer the fitness equipment.

I love the idea of club rides from the shop. It builds a sense of community and loyalty. Just like us here at TE - we use the forum, but Team Estrogen is also building for themselves an excellent base of customers.

I would have to think a bit about selling used bikes, especially if it narrowed my profit margin. I suppose that I would be more likely to sell them on a consignment basis, that way I wouldn't be buying a used bike that I couldn't sell.

I like your logo but I'd make sure to use BRIGHT colors for the window and door decal's - black isn't that visible on a window.

There's my $.02

CONGRATS :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D

wannaduacentury

10-11-2007, 07:34 AM

jobob

10-11-2007, 07:53 AM

Wow, what a fun thread! :)

RM, I can't think of anything to add to the great suggestions already made here, so I'll just chime in with my congratulations. Wishing you the very best in your exciting venture!

- Jo.

wannaduacentury

10-11-2007, 07:57 AM

Another note on hours- maybe switch it up a little. Have set hours on some days, and longer hours like on a fri or sat. and always wait for a customer who calls earlier in the day(that can't get there during op hours) and shows up at 6:05 for example to help them. this is not to be abused of course. Everyone's time is valuable. Many shops I know are closed sun and mon. and daytime hours the rest of the week. Jenn

ttaylor508

10-11-2007, 08:02 AM

Congrats...how exciting. I second the suggestion about Bike Fit and knowledge about the bikes you are selling. Our LBS spent hours with us even staying after hours when we weren't quite sure about size. He won us over with customer service and we have been loyal customers ever since and have brought several of our friends in to buy bikes there as well. He does give us a repeat customer discount everytime we come in. Did I mention we travel 30 miles to this bike shop we love it sooo much. Customer service and relationships are really where it is at to be successful. GOOD LUCK!

silver

10-11-2007, 08:22 AM

Mr. I don't want my own shop, I just want to work at one. :)

How about getting cycling jerseys made up with the shop logo, sell it pretty discount and get your name around?

I've used Zbikewear for jerseys although there are lots of companies.

http://www.zbikewear.com/index.php?s=semiCustom&c=english

Will you have mechanics? I like to see the machanics and talk to them. I like to know what they are doing to my bike. I want to learn from them.

Also, I want to be able to go into a shop and ask, "what can I do to make my bike faster and better?" One shop here will say....ride more, another shop will discuss upgrades and options but don't try to pressure you into buying. The latter is what I want.

sbctwin

10-11-2007, 08:29 AM

My favorite LBS added a ramp to their front door. They also added a 'handicap' type door (don't know what it is called, but one of those buttons you push to open the door). It sure is handy to have one of those hydrolic type doors when you are trying to wheel your bike in.

At least one road bike with 650 wheels for your shorter riders. That is what sold me on my LBS, they actually had something in stock for me to try. They even ordered in another bike with 650 wheels for me to compare to and I didn't have to buy. There was no guarantee that I would buy either bike from them, but their willingness to work with me to find a bike that fit me, was what convinced me that I would get my road bike from them.

At least a few 'plus' size biking clothes if you can swing it for those of us who aren't in your 'normal' range...

GLC1968

10-11-2007, 08:55 AM

Congratulations!! That's so awesome!!

I want to second (or third) the hours of operation thing. I can't tell you how many times we've shopped at Performance or REI in place of our two LBS's because they closed at 6 pm during the week (or were closed on Sundays).

I agree with the idea of being well stocked on 'right now' items (like 650 tubes with long stems! ;) ). I also think you should strive to carry clothing that you can't find everywhere else. I don't buy my PI shorts from my LBS because I can get them cheaper online. I would by unusual jerseys or socks if they carried them.

And this is something that I saw at the shop where I had my fitting done (it's no longer there) and I thought it was a GREAT idea. If you are in an area where there is good biking and/or you plan to have rides leave from your shop, this is SO cool. They had a vending machine outside that dispensed things like tubes, gels, sunscreen wipes, electrolyte tabs, chamois buttr, patch kits, bars, socks, etc. Local cyclists LOVED it because they could get emergency supplies even when the shop was closed. This shop also had an outside water spout (potable) and a work stand that was bolted to the porch for general use.

mimitabby

10-11-2007, 08:57 AM

congrats! I just checked to see how far you are from Tucson (I'm going to be at the Tucson ride next month) and you are TOO FAR.

Bathrooms
Bike parking
bike gifts (like jewelry)
and i agree about a bike or two for the smaller people.

one bike shop we have around here sells used bikes. They sell like hotcakes and people come by just to see if there's a cool used bike in stock.

ah.. and you probably already know this; don't sneer at the bikes that come in if they are disgusting walmart bikes. :D

PinkBike

10-11-2007, 09:01 AM

definitely have shop rides that start at your shop, people can come in last-minute and use the restroom or buy whatever they forgot (like chamois butter, clif bars, tubes) before or after the ride.

energy bars and gels

gotta have a place to park the bike when i come in to shop, the ramp and auto-door sounds great

jerseys and socks with your shop logo (voler is also a good place to buy, http://www.velowear.com/)

i like the idea of having weekly mechanic demonstrations so people can learn how to change a flat or do minor repair or adjustments. or learn how to fit their bike. or learn what type of bike is best for them.

a very interactive website (not one that just says your hours and brands, but one where i can see and search all your products)

anyway, i'll be visiting when you're up and running, put me on your email list!!

mimitabby

10-11-2007, 09:38 AM

please put your logo on a waterbottle. then make it available by mail and a bunch of TE gals will probably want one.

RoadRaven

10-11-2007, 09:42 AM

First... CONGRATS!!!!

That is WAAAAAAY kewel...

You have some fab "inside-the-heads-of-customers" info here. Great idea to ask :D

I agree a small cubicle somewhere is an excellent idea. I bought a jersey the other day that I discarded as too small and was about to put on back on the rack... until the shop assisant suggested I try it on - the shop had changed hands and been renovated, and there, between bike pumps and helmets was a little changing cubicle!

I haven't noticed in this thread, but maybe I have missed it... what focus will your shop have? Mountain biking? Commuting? Road Racing?

Obviously you can have more than one type... but your staff will dictate who comes to you. The LBS closest has a couple of mountain bikers there, and for a long time it was a commute and mtn bike shop - one of the owners is a road racer, so it will be interestig to see if clients follow...

Napier LBS has no experts now in road racing, so in its change of ownership, it went from a shop who had a reasonable racing clientele to one who appears to cater for families and commuters and middle of the range racing bikes.

Hastings LBS has several top-end road racers working there (at least two are going to the cycling nationals next week), so they tend to sell lots of top end bikes and equipment (thats where my partner got his two cervellos from - like Cancellara rides) but they haven't lost the small-town friendly touch and have an excellent family based and beginning cyclist base too.

The LBS furthest away from me has women who race working there, so they have quite a few female clients...

As well as thinking about your passion and what your shop will be known for... think also a bit about specialist bikes - like tandems or recumbents... would it be worth havng examples of these bikes in store, with someone who knows about them, and ability to access what people want/size etc when someone shows interest...

onimity

10-11-2007, 10:19 AM

The vending machine idea is great!

And a couple of other things...

Ditto what the others said about bike parking...but I'll add that when I'm out on my road bike I almost never have a lock. My favorite LBS has a rack at the front of the store (inside) where I can put it & know it will be safe. Also, people often want to bring the bike in & have it with them when looking at things like bar tape, panniers, seats, etc., so make sure that you have wide aisles to accommodate that.

There is a new bike shop by my house & the people are really nice but I hardly ever go there because it is so cluttered with bikes/clothing racks/etc. that you can't bring a bike in. I was looking for a new saddle...they were wedged in a corner that took me 15 mins to get to with my bike, and I knocked a million things over in the process. Ugh. They are really nice but it seems a lot easier to ride the extra 5 miles to a shop that accommodates my bike...

Plus, having people's bikes in your shop is a good sales opportunity for you: hey, this bar tape would look great on your bike! Have you ever thought about trying clipless pedals? How do you like that saddle? Do you have a frame pump? etc.

My LBS offers a regular free maintenance class...a good way to make people confident with their bikes and sell basic maintenance gear. I was thinking too that a good idea might be to put together your own 'starter kit' for new cyclists & offer a discount on it with a bike purchase, tire levers, tubes, patch kits, multi-tool, frame or CO2 pump...and of course the bike socks/water bottle with your logo. :D

And, a simple rule, but learn names. Or remember something significant about your customers. How are you liking that new ____? How was your ride to ___ last weekend? When I walk into a store & am greeted by name I really appreciate that.

Anne

HappyAnika

10-11-2007, 11:17 AM

Congrats!

Things I like to see stocked:

-Lots of cute socks
-Pretty water bottles
-Products for women that come in colors other than pink
-Cliff products- as many flavors of blocks as you can, I also like their electrolyte drink mixes which can be hard to find
-Variety of tubes. I like threaded long stems and it's frustrating to me that the shop 4 blocks from my house only carries short smooth ones.
-Decent selection of tires.
-Chamois butter

Other:
-Have a suggestion/comment box. If you really want to know what your customers want/think, give them an easy way to tell you. Some of us can be shy and don't like confrontation. Anonymous suggestion boxes can help elicit more feedback.
-Have a decent web site. Even if you don't want to do web sales, at least have good information like current hours, an overview of products you stock, and your philosophy/mission statement. A feedback section would be great too, and if you post an e-mail address, be prompt about responding! (not immediate, but in a reasonable time frame so as to be helpful).
-Make it easy to find consumables, like tubes, cleaner, and lube.
-Have a pump (or two) out for use. I thought this was a no brainer until I needed to top off my tire and the nearest bike shop wasn't sure if they had a pump :confused: :rolleyes: .
-I agree about having a night or two open later to accomodate the working folk.

Good luck! I like the logo. :)

Trekhawk

10-11-2007, 11:37 AM

Congratulations RM!!!

I think all the great tips have been given already so all I can say is don't forget to keep us updated on how it is all going.:)

mtbdarby

10-11-2007, 12:33 PM

Congrats Denise!!!! What a big and exciting chapter for you:D

Add me to the list of follow up with your customers if you tell them you will. I went to two lbs looking for a conversion kit for my bike pump. One said he's order it and I'd get it in a couple days. Nope. Went to the other who said they'd check and call. Nope again. So I jimmy-rigged it and so far so good.

If it applies to your clientle, maybe a train table in a corner with a few toys and a small tv/dvd combo for the little ones so parents can shop. It's a Godsend in the lbs I do go to!

And what's all this crazy talk about bikes racks at a bike store??!! I have NEVER seen a bike rack at a bike store in this area. How sad is that....

coyote

10-11-2007, 12:39 PM

Deanna

10-11-2007, 01:50 PM

Congratulations!!

My little suggestion is to order water bottles (quality ones that you would use, in both sizes) with your store logo, address, phone, etc. In addition to selling them, they are useful when you think giving somebody something for free might seal the deal. They're also good to include with donations (and you will be asked).

Tuckervill

10-11-2007, 02:01 PM

Hi RM,
Congrats and good luck! Can't wait to here more.

Add one thing....don't make an awesome website and then neglect it. Don't make it so informative that you are having to update it all the time. But do update it at set intervals....maybe monthly or quarterly. IE Spring specials are not so special in the Fall.

This is one of my pet peeves, too.

Also on websites--I use bike shop websites to find out about rides when I travel. It helps to have the actual name of the TOWN you are in on your website. I have run across too many that don't actually list the town name. If you are unfamiliar with an area, you're not going to know what the local mountain range is, necessarily.

Overwhelmed with suggestions, yet? lol.

Karen

Rakekay

10-11-2007, 03:22 PM

Congratulations!

So, here's my suggestion: clothes for people bigger than matchsticks!

Karen in Boise

Yes, yes, yes. What SHE said! I can't tell you how much money I've wasted on shipping trying to order larger size jerseys online (and then having to send them back when they are either too small or too big.

elk

10-11-2007, 03:38 PM

HIRE SOME WOMEN!!!!!!
and make sure your staff understands that the weeniest looking dork walking in the door could become tommorrow's avid cyclist...IOW...treat EVERYONE with equal respect.

I second KNot's idea about a saddle library so people can try out saddles before they order them.

Maybe be a Waterford or a Rivendell dealer?

Oh...and Electra bikes are hot hot hot and hip.

Also carry NICE bags...not just the polysuperpoopoo ones, but some nice waxed canvas/leather/"retro" stuff...
Clothing choices...not just lyrca spandex...

allow well behaved dogs ;-) and carry: http://www.bikerdog.com/

You''re gonna be great...DOn't FORGET your coffee bar!!!

nice logo BTW!

blueskies

10-11-2007, 04:04 PM

and make sure your staff understands that the weeniest looking dork walking in the door could become tommorrow's avid cyclist...IOW...treat EVERYONE with equal respect.

Actually, the weeniest looking dork could be today's avid cyclist. I know some women who race as Master's who look deceptively un-racey in ordinary clothes.

Congrats!!!!!! Much joy! And success!

crazycanuck

10-11-2007, 04:12 PM

RM,

In regards to bike shop hours: Perth & most of Western Australia have backward shopping hours and most bike shops close at 6pm. Thursday night most shops are open until 9pm including bike shops :)

Congrats again!

C

Bklynmom

10-11-2007, 05:14 PM

So great - congrats, and I wish you were closer to NYC! How exciting!

You got so many great suggestions. Here's one that could apply to a lot of businesses:

I think customer service and staff training is really important. We have a great local running store that treats everyone like a serious athlete, in a really nice way - even the slacker looking teens are really nice and helpful. I don't know if they do a lot of training, but they do all seem to be functioning under a great philosophy -- the manger is very nice and treats his employees kindly and firmly in front of customers.

sgtiger

10-11-2007, 08:55 PM

Congratulations, Running Mommy! I'll think you'll do fine. :cool: :D

BTW, BIAK's buddy from high school and his wife are local LBS owners. They have a vending machine in front of their store stocked with tubes, patches, and other things that customers may need in a pinch.

DirtDiva

10-12-2007, 01:26 AM

How exciting! All the best with the new shop. :)

Re: the saddle library idea...
WTB produces a set of test saddles for bike stores to lend out. I think it cost the shop I went to NZ$600 to get a set (about 8 saddles, IIRC). From personal experience, being able to take these saddles for a test drive and bring 'em back wet and muddy and all is great. Made me spend twice as much as I meant to on a new saddle for my mtb, but the new one is so kind to my bum that I just don't care. Now, people coming in and spending twice what they meant to and not being bothered by it is just what all shops like... :D