Dozens of indie bike vendors will descend upon Brooklyn for a day-long bike-themed flea market next month — but what’s a bike lovin’ Brooklynite supposed to do the rest of the year?
Behold our short guide to the most specialized bike shops in this cycling-centric borough.
The big spender
Looking for a bike that costs more than a car? Park Slope’s R&A Cycles is the competitive cyclist’s go-to shop for premier lightweight commuting and racing brands, including a carbon-framed Pinarello for a cool $16,500.
R&A Cycles [105 Fifth Ave. at Park Street in Park Slope, (718) 636–5242, www.racycles.com]
The custom-made
Gowanus’s 718 Cycles is the dessert buffet of bike shops. Customers here hand-pick new and used frames and parts, then watch as workers assemble a one-of-a-kind ride that fits their size and style.
718 Cycles [254 Third Ave. at Union Street in Gowanus, (347) 457–5760, www.718c.com].
The booze cruiser
Red Lantern Bicycles is the only bike shop in the state that serves beer, meaning you can toast then coast (once you’ve sobered up, of course!).
Red Lantern Bicycles [345 Myrtle Ave. near Adelphi Street in Fort Greene, (347) 889–5338, www.redlanternbicycles.com].
The old standby
Dixon’s Bicycle Shop — Park Slope’s oldest family-owned bike store — offers friendly and efficient repair services at fair prices, with zero bike snobbery and plenty of gear for kids.
Dixon’s Bicycle Shop [792 Union St. near Seventh Avenue in Park Slope (718) 636–0067].
The waterside rental
Escape the city without ever leaving. Red Hook’s new low-key one-stop shop offers a full-day bike rental for $60, compete with a lock, on a sleepy stretch a few blocks from the harbor.
Dog Day Cyclery [115 Van Brunt St. near Union Street, (347) 799–2739, dogdaycyclery.com].
— Natalie O’Neill
Reach reporter Natalie O'Neill at noneill@cnglocal.com or by calling her at (718) 260-4505.
