Latest COVID-19 Update
Hello from my office, er kitchen table!
Just wanted to check in with everyone and share some thoughts about the bike shop during this period of quarantine that certainly allows for lots of reflection. I made the tough decision to abide by a firm closure during the initial stay-at-home period. That means we have not been accepting new bike shipments or service requests. Yes, I am aware that other shops have been doing this and I do not fault them. Economic fear is a powerful and real motivator. It is not that I do not share these fears — I own a low-margin seasonal business, I live on these fears even when there is not a pandemic! — but I believe that the uncertainty and level of contagiousness of this still-not-understood virus is more frightening and more important at this time. I don’t want to facilitate any non-essential contact and, realistically, a new bike or minor repair is not essential right now.
The latest state mandate (4/24) says that bicycle repair shops can begin to operate. We have decided that we will not...yet. Our high traffic area; small, open floor plan; and high level of personal contact workplace doesn’t engender a safe environment for me and my staff. Furthermore, we are not convinced that this decision will not result in a spike in infections, and are deciding to “stay-at-home” so as to not contribute to that possibility.
This is certainly not an easy decision to make and I hope that our customers can understand and respect our caution.
We are working behind the scenes to develop safe protocols for rentals, service, and retail for when we do reopen. Business will not be “as-usual.” Our tours are cancelled for the near-term future (at least through May) until this virus is better under control and we can feel safe in small groups.
Trust me, each and every time I turn away business it breaks my heart a little bit. But I have to do what I think is right — and right isn’t always perfect, it’s just the best we can do.
Thanks for understanding and when we do feel safe to reopen, trust me, I will be shouting it from the hilltops!
Two quick notes:
If you are jonesing for a ride and your bike is down for the count, make use of Mogo. They are currently providing monthly passes free! More info HERE.
We have a 2-week online merch sale going on through May 5 that includes some cool cotton face masks (strange times indeed). Check it out HERE!
In good health,
Kelli