Quote Originally Posted by profĂ*vĂ©lo
This reinforces my secret desire to open a bike shop for women. My husband's response was that bike shop owners don't make any money; I replied that I wouldn't be doing it for the money. I just want to help more women get out there and ride, on any kind of bike. I would hire women mechanics so that women customers would never be intimidated. I would have a book section, too--I've never seen one in a bike shop--books on training, riding, nutrition, etc.

Would you go out of your way to get to a LBS for women?
Although the guys at my LBS are really nice, they don't seem to get the idea that I'd really like to learn more about my bike. So, I learn on my own and gradually ask better questions, but it would be nice if their attitude was one more into teaching.

One might not need to do a shop. What about a sort of cooperative where folks could pay a membership and maybe be able to purchase parts at lowered prices and be able to use tools? Of course, you'd still need to have an expert on hand once in a while, but maybe it could be more along the lines of mentorship instead of client/professional.