January 2023 Update
January Shop News
Happy New Year!
If getting a bike or maintenance is on your list of resolutions, we can assist in checking them off. New bikes from Gazelle and Tern arrived in December. For the first time in over 10 months our repair calendar is under three days. If you’ve been holding off on booking an appointment throughout the busy season, this is your time.
Inventory updates
Our bike inventory will return to nearly normal levels in 2023. After several years of supply chain disruptions, the only shortages we continue to see are in higher end and certain electric bike models. Bikes like the Tern GSD S00 and the HSD P9 will remain in shorter supply and will be allocated to people on our wait list. New models from Gazelle, Fuji, and Marin are all anticipated to arrive early in the new year. We’ll have some detailed information on those once we get closer to the delivery dates.
DC E-BIKE Act
Council Member Brooke Pinto recently introduced the DC E-BIKE Act of 2023, which if enacted will provide rebates for qualifying purchases of electric bicycles by DC residents. This new legislation could pass by the end of 2023 and start providing benefits in 2024. Although details are limited at this early date, this e-bike rebate program appears to be modeled on Denver’s wildly successful voucher that launched in 2022. As proposed, residents of the District of Columbia can receive up to $400 in an instant rebate if at or above 80% of median income. Residents who earn below 80% of median family income could receive up to $1,200 as an instant rebate. Purchasers of electric cargo bikes can receive an additional $500 instant rebate regardless of income. This program has broad support on the Council, with our own Council Member, Charles Allen signing on to co-sponsor it. Before it passes, the bill needs to be introduced in committee, where there will likely be an opportunity to publicly comment. We’ll keep track of it as it moves through this process and update here when developments occur.
Social Media
If you would like to keep up with what’s happening in the shop in a more immediate fashion, we’re still on Twitter and Instagram (subject to change).
Repair Calendar Update
This is the best time of year to do maintenance as tune ups can be handled within one to two days. If you have a larger project or custom build, now would be the time to discuss it. Most small repairs can be handled day-of drop off. Text or call us to see if we can fit you in.
New Service options:
Our updated tune up menu rolled out in September with some new packages. They’re designed around a more holistic approach to bike repair and maintenance. Over several years we have seen thousands of bikes in our stands, and every one is unique. Starting this month, we’ll fit the tune you need with your prior maintenance history along with your goals for riding in the future. We’re also adjusting pricing to sustain our high level of service, while retaining the same great staff our customers have come to trust.
Weekend days are fully reserved for walk-ins. If you have an urgent repair, let us know so we can prioritize getting you back on the road.
Looking for a new job?
If you’re looking for a position in the bike industry, we’re always looking for friendly, technically savvy people to serve in mechanic and retail positions. Send us an email with a resume and a brief message letting us know some things your resume doesn’t express.
January 2023 Bike Stock
Bike inventories have improved significantly. Just arrived in the shop are some new bikes from Gazelle and Tern.
Gazelle
Ultimate T10+
Gazelle is famous for its heritage as a manufacturer of classic Dutch bikes. In the past ten years, their electric bike line has grown in variety, with offerings for almost any rider. The Ultimate T10+ is one of their flagship models, equipped with a Bosch Performance Line Speed motor and 500wH battery. The Dutch heritage is apparent from the first ride, with a planted, solid feel even at higher speeds. Capable of 28mph with assistance, bike lanes become express lanes. With so many features included, the only thing to add is a lock.
Medeo T9 City
The Gazelle T9 City redefines entry-level while delivering the complete e-bike experience. At $2,499, this full-featured electric bicycle offers all of the latest technologies and essential equipment. Racks, lights, and fenders are all standard equipment. To make this complete, you just have to add a bag or basket and a secure lock before setting off for your first trip.
Tern
GSD S10LR
The Tern GSD has proven to be our most popular cargo bike in the shop since it was introduced. Inventory is somewhat limited for this month, but will begin returning to the shop floor once we get into early 2023. The bikes in stock now, the S10LR comes in a spicy Tabasco orange. They have a more basic chain and derailleur drivetrain, but are just as cargo-capable as the rest of the Tern GSD fleet. If you’re waiting for a GSD S00, call the shop and we might be able to get one ordered.
Breezer
Several stepthrough Breezer Downtown EX models are in stock right now. These upright town bikes are well suited for utility or casual riding and come equipped with rack and fenders.
Fuji
- For people looking for one of the best production singlespeed bikes available, the Fuji Feather is back in the shop after a nearly three year absence. The simplicity of the build and styling make this bike an instant classic. Available in red.
Marin
- The road disappears and terrain gets more unpredictable, and the Marin Nicasio 2 is the bike you chose for this exact moment. The Nicasio 2 is sure footed and ready for all day gravel expeditions or occasional off-piste excursions. When not out in the wild, this bike is perfectly content with city streets and less intense adventures.
- One of the stars of 2020 and 2021 has returned to the shop. The Marin Fairfax 2 is the upgraded version of Wirecutter’s pick for favorite commuter bike. With a lighter frame and hydraulic brakes, this stops as well as it goes. Available in medium, large, and extra large.
- Muirwoods RCBack for what will likely be a limited time, the Marin Muirwoods RC (medium, large) blends mountain bike performance with urban comfort styling.
- One of our favorites for value and performance, the Marin Presidio 1 has returned in medium and large. If you’re looking for a budget conscious performance hybrid ($689) built with city riding in mind, come in and try it out.
BICYCLE PARTS SHORTAGES
The supply chain issues of 2020 and 2021 are mostly behind us, but we’re still seeing certain components that have not returned to on-demand status. Most of these are higher-end drivetrain parts and certain niche accessories. This year we will return to mostly normal availability.
CURRENT HOURS OF OPERATION
Sunday: 12-4
Monday: Closed
Tuesday-Saturday: 10-6