We support local bike shops and know that our rider/readers do, too. Each month, we’ll be showcasing some of the best bicycle shops in the US. What does it take to be successful in the retail market? We think you’ll find some of the answers in this column…
Summit City Bicycles and Fitness has been a staple in the Fort Wayne community for over 40 years. Over the last 23 years the current owners have led the business to be the largest bike shop in Northeast Indiana, offering top cycling brands and a wide array of parts, accessories and apparel to make everyone’s ride the best it can be. The staff is passionate about bikes and poised to assist every guest in finding the products that will help them realize their cycling dreams.
Q: Why do you think women choose to shop for cycling products at Summit City Bicycles & Fitness?
At Summit City Bicycles and Fitness we have a female customer base that enjoys every aspect of cycling including triathlons, adventure riding, touring, off-road riding, commuting, racing and casual riding. Since a lot of our customers wear many hats in their families, work lives and communities, we understand it can be a challenge just to get out and ride sometimes. We love welcoming women into our store and building positive relationships with them as we strive to spark their passion for cycling.
Women choose to shop with us for our friendly, non-intimidating atmosphere. We have women on staff that can relate to women specific issues and help them choose products that will enhance their cycling experience. We provide a Ladies’ Open House each Spring for women to connect with each other and local cycling groups. Clinics that detail different aspects of basic bike maintenance are also offered during our Open House.
Q: Why do you sell the Terry product line?
We sell Terry apparel to fill a need for women’s cycling apparel that performs above expectations and is fashionable, flattering and comfortable. Terry offers fun patterns and staple solids in soft, performance fabrics at competitive prices.
Q: When a new-to-cycling female customer comes into your shop, what’s the first thing your staff tells her about cycling?
It’s so much fun and anyone can do it! Choosing a new bike at any stage in life is an exciting opportunity, but it can be overwhelming and intimidating for women. When introducing a woman to cycling, we are interested in getting to know who she is and what kind of riding she’d like to do. Asking lots of questions and having a large selection of women’s bikes in stock builds trust and helps women feel confident in investing in themselves. Finding the right bike is just one aspect of the journey toward developing a love of cycling. We also make sure she has everything she needs to enjoy her cycling experience, from the comfort of the saddle to lights for safety, suggesting items we can stand behind from our own experience.
