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