What's going on, Albuquerque?

Where do you get your bike repaired?

My bike is my main mode of transportation, and I'm a bit peeved now because I took it in to the Bike Coop on Central for a much needed tune up. When I left it, the guy told me it would be done the next day (a Saturday) and that they would call me. On Monday, after not getting called, I walked in to find that they hadn't started on my bike, but told me that it would probably be done today. When I called this afternoon, the guy told me it was scheduled to be done by Thursday, but since I had told them it was my main mode of transportation, he would "try" to start on it today and maybe it would get done by tomorrow.

I had told my wife I wasn't happy with Bike Coop but it had been so long since I had them do anything I couldn't quite remember why. Now I remember - this casual attitude about when they will do something. I sort of have the feeling that since I don't have the greatest bike in the world, and I don't train like Lance Armstrong, my bike gets shunted to the back of the pack every day.

So, I'd be curious. Where do you casual riders, if you need bike repairs done, take your bikes? I haven't read much good things about any bike shop here - but that may be because satisfied customers are usually outnumbered by dissatisfied customers.

Thoughts? Advice?

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Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Benny the Icepick on July 21, 2009 at 4:41pm

This would be a discussion best found in Burque Bikers; it's been addressed many times there.

Usually the Coop has really, really high marks for service, which is why testimonials like this really surprise me. However, you're not the first; a friend of mine relayed a similar experience earlier this summer. I'm hoping these are isolated incidents and not a downward trend in an otherwise stellar and highly reputable establishment.

My personal pick for service is Two Wheel Drive; the wrenches there are unbeatable. Occasionally they get swamped and work gets pushed back a bit, but every time I've come to them with an urgent situation they've adjusted their schedule to accommodate me. Heck, one of the guys even took my bike home with him once to work on it over the weekend so I could have it for a Sunday ride.

Additionally, you could contact the city and inquire about their Advanced Mechanics courses. These are really well designed classes that show you how to do some not-so-basic repairs yourself.

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Permalink Reply by Mom Of Two on July 31, 2009 at 12:16pm

I second Two Wheel Drive.

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Permalink Reply by Masshole in Fringecrest on August 4, 2009 at 9:54am

I fourth.

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Permalink Reply by RivetGang on July 21, 2009 at 5:29pm

I was a decade long Bike Coop patron until about a year ago, after I became unhappy with the attitude from a young sprout behind the counter, and what I perceived to be an inflated cost. I ended up having my repair done by Two Wheel Drive, and am totally sold on the courtesy, quality, and cost that they provide.

-Jason

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Permalink Reply by Chroma Studios on July 21, 2009 at 7:35pm

Two Wheel drive on Central near University has always fixed our bikes quickly, usually the same day if not, the next day.

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Permalink Reply by M&M on July 21, 2009 at 8:51pm

Of course, after I posted this, someone called me from there to tell me my bike was fixed. However, it would be nice if they would give you a heads up if there is going to be delays.

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Permalink Reply by LenR on July 21, 2009 at 10:23pm

Go and see Charlie at Two Wheel Drive... best bike shop in town, and I've tried 'em all.

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Permalink Reply by Ungerade on July 21, 2009 at 11:01pm

I too had an awful awful experience there. I've been going to two wheel drive and they seem decent, although I haven't had anything major done. Good luck.

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Permalink Reply by Kenny on July 22, 2009 at 7:13am

I'm a casual rider and my recent experience at The Bike Coop was positive. I talked to the owner and ended up buying the tire he recommended based on my specifications. He even talked with me at length about how I can get better performance and life out of my tires. All that for a $16 sale.

I've been going there for about seven years and someday I'm going to ask him to build me my dream bike.

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Permalink Reply by RivetGang on July 22, 2009 at 8:16am

Well, I wasn't a decade long patron of the Coop for no reason... throughout that period I did receive excellent advice and service. My switch can be attributed to the condescending attitude from younger employees, which occurred on two different occasions. I am not a hardcore bike racer or rider, just a simple bike commuter who has been trekking to downtown Albuquerque for the past 25 years. I am sure the Coop can and will provide good service for folks, but it is hard for me to go back after such a good experience at 2 Wheel Drive.

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Permalink Reply by Tricross on July 22, 2009 at 7:33am

My advice is to learn how to do basic work on your bike yourself. REI teaches a basic class that is free. They also have an advanced class that may have a fee associated. I have heard good things about the new shop in town, The Kick Stand, on Juan Tabo. Good luck. Nothing in more frustrating that a bike that doesn't ride right.