The Best Bike Shops in Edmonton
Cycling, as a lifestyle, has many devoted followers all over the world, Edmonton included, for a fair reason. Regular bike rides increase muscle strength and improve joint mobility. Besides that, if you are not into gym workout, yet want to include fitness activity in your schedule, biking might be a solution. Getting outside, and exploring nearby parks during warm seasons on a bike, not only decreases stress level, but also allows you to see new places at a much faster speed than walking.
Speaking of exploring, Edmonton offers many (easily accessible to bikers) parks, but the award winner is the River Valley, no doubt. This prolonged park system offers over 160 kilometers of multi-use paths for walking and biking.
Hence, after realizing that such activity as road or mountain biking (if you are into extremes) has many benefits, it might be the time to consider buying one of your own. Yet, high price of a bike suggests thinking of it as an investment in your daily commute or fitness equipment. There are many factors to consider.
In this article, we break down some tips on what to look for in a bike, or where to buy the best bikes in Edmonton. However, we suggest going into one of those shops and consulting an expert for it is one of the most effective ways to find the right bicycle.
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What To Look For
Size:
No argument, every body is different. Therefore, it would be a waste of money and energy to buy a random bike without considering a proper fit. It is not only important for comfort, but also for safety.
The first factor to look for is the height of the top tube in terms of the ground. It indicates a proper clearance while standing over the top tube. The main reason you want to check the height is safe riding in case you slide forward off your saddle. (If the frame is properly placed according to your height you will land with your feet on the ground instead of hitting yourself.) Look for a minimum of 1-1/2” clearance between your body and the top tube. (Although on mountain bikes it is better to have 2” or more.)
The second aspect is the distance between your saddle and handlebars. You do not want to feel stretched out, riding in an utmost uncomfortable position. On the contrary, if the distance is too short, you could feel cramped up. While cockpit length can be adjusted on some bikes, it would not be a significant change.
Kind:
Understanding the main reason you need a bike for, could help to decide on the kind of cycle you would need. The most widely used kind is the comfort bike. They are made for a leisure ride on pavement, and typically have wider seats, and high handlebars. Such bikes feature an upright riding position and a softer ride. An additional advantage is a price. Because these bikes are not designed for stressful, adventure rides, they cost less than, for instance, mountain bikes. The only downside of comfort bikes is the weight. Because of it, you might find it challenging to maneuver at a slow speed and pedaling on hilly roads.
The second type is road and gravel bikes. Designed for riders who plan to go fast and far, those bikes feature a more relaxed geometry frame and tires as fat as those on mountain bikes. Yet, road bikes are relatively lightweight, aerodynamic, and offer characteristics for a pleasurable, speedy ride on both pavement and gravel. The only issue you might find is getting used to low-positioned handlebars.
Another type is mountain bikes. You might be into riding on rugged trails in the Canadian Rockies or simply exploring at a nearby forest with designated paths, yet for both types of roads, it is a proper mountain bike that makes the ride safer and smoother. Typically, mountain bikes have wide, knobby tires, a narrow or moderate-width saddle and riser handlebars. An additional feature is a rear shock providing ability to bomb down on rough terrains with better control. One disadvantage is the weight. Those bikes are heavier than road and fitness bikes, thus not so well suited for road riding.
An electric bike is another kind, which is innovative and convenient. Those cycles come with hub motors (that drive the rear or front wheel), enabling more people to ride comfortably and faster, especially if you live in a hilly area. However, consider one factor: e-bikes are quite heavy and can be difficult to transport on a car’s roof rack.
Finally, two other kinds to keep your eyes on are fitness and folding bikes. The former combines the geometry of a road frame and the horizontal handlebar of a mountain bike. Those bikes are more comfortable than road bikes and cost less. The latter kind comes in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and styles, and is designed for those who often drive to biking locations and want to store a bike in a trunk. Folding bikes are easier to carry as well.
Brands:
We won’t discuss every brand that is out there on a market, but would like to mention a few that hold the highest standard of quality, including Canadian companies. Such brands as Trek and Cannondale (US) were founded in the 1970s and since then have been constantly producing one of the best performance bikes.
Kona and Argon 18 are Canadian bike brands that began in the 80s and continue manufacturing traditional and world-class quality up until now. Other Canadian brands to be aware of are Altruise Bikes, Aquila Cycles, Berg Bikes and Bonavia Bicycles.
Price:
The last aspect to consider when buying a bike is the price tag. The best way to think of a bike for your daily commute or sports activity is as an investment. They might appear at too high of a price at the beginning, yet a high-quality frame won’t wear out so easily, and your rides will be safer and more convenient. When buying a high-quality bike, we suggest heading to one of the local stores that offer exquisite quality products and services.
If you are getting a bike for your kids or a casual weekend ride, there is no particular reason to spend a few thousand dollars on a bicycle. Thus, department stores can offer some decent options. However, keep in mind that price reflects in the quality. Budget-friendly bikes are generally made with cheaper frames and are not put together by professional mechanics.
Taking Care of Your Bike:
To extend the lifetime of your bicycle, whether you bought it at a department store or a locally owned shop, there are a few tips.
First, prevent pinch flats. Checking your tubes and tires before a ride is an often-neglected step. Cycle-Logic suggests “push the valve halfway into the rim and inflate until the tube holds its shape. Tuck the tube into the tire, check that the valve stem is straight, and seat the bead of the tire all the way around the rim. Push the tire away from the rim wall with your thumbs, and look at the gap. Push the valve up into the tire and pull it back down. Inflate.” They also suggest booking an appointment with them if such a maneuver seems too tricky.
Second, make sure to keep your bike dry. Use a towel to quickly dry it after a rainy ride to prevent rust.
Third, degrease the drivetrain. If you notice your chain gets greasy, spray degreaser on, then hold a rag against it and backpedal to clean it. That way helps to prevent buildup grease which speeds up wear.
Another one is, changing chains at least once a year.
And most of all, watch for squeaky brakes. If you hear a suspicious sound while breaking it might be the time to clean your rims and file the brake pads.
Element Cycling & Multisport
Element is one of those bike shops that promotes cycling as a sport and lifestyle. Elise and Cam (the owners) put decades of triathlon experience to work. Their well-curated selection of bicycles offers both technical and lifestyle products, including clothing. Element specializes in triathlon bikes, featuring bikes from Felt, Garneau, and BMC. They offer complete bikes, framesets, and packages (bikes, plus all the gear you need to get racing), which are custom build.
At Element, you can find not only the latest models of road, e-, and mountain bikes, but also receive customized products. You can select from adding your name, a saying or quote or other visuals to the frame of your cycle.
Speaking of personalization, that is what many customers praise Element for: they are very personable in their dealing with customers. Satisfied customers find the sales team honest and reasonable in anything from selling a brand-new bike to repair services.
“Cam services my bikes as if they are his own- they look spectacular when I pick them up,” said a satisfied customer who often drops off his bike for maintenance.
Although we included a few places that specifically focus on bike maintenance, if Element Cycling is near your place and your bike requires some repair, do not look any further. (Make sure to contact them in advance.)
Whether you are new to a cycling sport or need some extra accessories for convenient rides, Element has a vast selection of merchandise to offer, including clothing. As per someone new to the sport, Elise spent the time explaining which bike and accessories would be appropriate for her as a beginner, including bike and accessories. This type of genuine and above-and-beyond service is sometimes hard to come by, but you can find it here, the customer added.
Average prices:
E-Bikes: $3,140
Triathlon bikes: $4,429
Operating hours:
Sunday – Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday – Wednesday/Friday: 10 a.m.—6 p.m.
Thursday: 10 a.m.—8 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m.—5 p.m.
Contact: (780) – 757 – 0418
Address: 6655 178 St NW #422, Edmonton, AB T5T 4J5
Pros
- Excellent customer service.
- Vast selection of merchandise.
- High-quality triathlon bikes.
Cons
- Some customers complained about not being able to buy parts unless you pay Element by the hour to install them.
Revolution Cycle
Revolution Cycle is another shop which strives to provide the best experience and high-quality bikes. They are known for a vast selection of merchandise, knowledgeable staff and friendly service. Whether you are new to the sport or need a bike upgrade, you can count on Revolution Cycle. After all, it is run by people who ride bikes as a major part of their lifestyle. “If you have ever been unsure about riding a bike, go on into this store and speak with their staff,” said a satisfied client.
Another new customer who had no intention of purchasing anything during his visit ended up with a bike and absolutely loved it. Loved it so much that he put on approximately 100 km in the first few weeks of owning it. The shop offers not only bikes but also accessories, clothing and gear to make your rides safe and pleasurable. Besides, there are certain maintenance services you can receive at Revolution Cycle.
What attracts us the most in Revolution Cycle is the welcoming atmosphere and experience you receive as a customer where no matter how immature your questions might be, they will be explained and answered. In fact, that is what many other customers noted about: the staff does not act pushy to make a sale and do not make you feel neglected.
Average prices:
Mountain bikes: $949
Road bikes: $2,449
Electric bokes: $3,049
Operating hours:
Sunday: CLOSED
Monday – Saturday: 10 a.m.—6 p.m.
Contact: (780) – 570 – 9704
Address: 2016 Sherwood Dr #108, Sherwood Park, AB T8A 3X3
Pros
- Vast selection of merchandise.
- Friendly and knowledgeable staff.
Cons
- Some customers complained about parts delay which affected maintenance timeframe.
Cranky’s Bike Shop Riverbend Square
The simple mission of Cranky’s bike shop is, as they say, “to help riders get the most out of their cycling experience. Whether you are getting ready to hit the trails in the Edmonton River valley, get fitted for a new road bike, or get a run bike for your little one, we’ve got you covered.” It is a family-owned business established in March 2001.
Besides offering vast selection, (including e-bikes, mountain bikes, road bikes and more to suit every rider), they educate their staff about brands, materials, maintenance and everything customers would need to know about cycling.
As a satisfied customer noted, being a self-professed ‘newbie’ to the world of cycling, and as someone who had to be on the receiving end of a bit of ‘attitude’ at another bike shop, it was refreshing to be treated as a valued customer at the Cranky’s shop. He did not feel rushed. Questions were answered. Attention was paid, and the knowledge and expertise were shared, he added.
Another significant part of Cranky’s shop is the maintenance section. The mechanics at the shop are convinced in showing love and care to every bike that requires repair. All locations also offer full-service adjustment of your current bike to fit your body frame the most conveniently for riding.
Average prices:
Road bikes: $2,229
Mountain bikes: $899
Electric: $3,599
Operating hours:
Sunday – Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday – Wednesday/Friday: 10 a.m.—6 p.m.
Thursday: 10 a.m.—8 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m.—5 p.m.
Contact: (780) – 988 – 2088
Address: 540 Riverbend Square NW, Edmonton, AB T6R 2E3
Pros
- Vast selection of merchandise.
- Full-service repair shop.
- Convenient locations.
Cons
- A few customers complained about customer service.
Hardcore Bikes
Hardcore Bikes began in 1988 as a specialized shop for mountain bikes. It started small in a tiny alley shop and later expanded into a full-scale store with repairing and servicing parts. A regular client who goes to the mountains regularly noted that he is in his second decade of shopping at Hardcore Bikes.
If you are into mountain biking, keep this shop on your list of must-go places. Mountain bikes are their specialty which means you can find bike parts and hand-built frames.
Hardcore Bikes say about themselves, “the people who work here ride and race and believe that cycling is more than a business, it is a lifestyle. Most of our customers we know by name and we treat our customers the same way we treat our friends.”
Average prices:
Electric bikes: $6,499
Road bikes: $3,099
Mountain: $4,599
Operating hours:
Sunday – Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday – Friday: 10 a.m.—6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m.—5 p.m.
Contact: (780) – 439 – 4599
Address: 10008 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 1Z3
Pros
- Specializes in mountain bikes.
- Maintenance shop included.
Cons
- A few reviews featured complains about customer service.
redbike
Garneau is a cyclist-friendly area with its biking lanes, parking convenience, and overall bustling vibe. Hence it is no wonder redbike opened right between a famous Sugarbowl restaurant and a French bakery (Eleanore and Laurent). Another convenience about the location is the closeness of the University of Alberta: students often prefer biking to driving or taking a bus as their commute.
Overall, the whole atmosphere of the shop is welcoming and completely resonated with the neighborhood: hardwood floors, brick walls, and wooden structures house the large selection of bicycles, displayed in an old-world fashion. redbike is stocked up with excellent quality merchandise for anyone considering a new or used bike. (There is also a service department to fix any issues you have with your cycle.) Moreover, redbike carries necessary gear, accessories, shoes, clothing and helmets from various brands in different colours and materials.
Besides a well-curated selection of bicycles, we suggest this store to anyone who is looking to shop on a budget, yet hoping for a high-quality ride. While you might spot some mountain bikes for over three thousand dollars, there are some reliable options to check out for under eight hundred dollars (commuter bikes.)
Average prices:
Gravel bikes: $4,299
Mountain bikes: $2,699
Electric bikes: $7,319
Commuter bikes: $759
Operating hours:
Sunday – Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday – Friday: 10 a.m.—6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m.—5 p.m.
Contact: (780) – 435 – 2674
Address: 10918 88 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 0Z1
Pros
- Convenient location.
- Vast selection of new and used bikes.
Cons
- Inconvenient area for parking a car.
Old Strathcona Cycles
Located on Whyte Ave, Old Strathcona Cycles is a lifestyle bike shop. They are proud to offer Edmonton a selection of quality bikes for both sport and leisure rides. That includes competitive rates and full tune-up services, as well as useful tools and products that you can use at home.
As they say, “we want to see Edmontonians out riding their bikes, having fun, and enjoying all that our city has to offer.” The city has plenty of riding paths to offer, indeed. River Valley alone is pleasurable to explore on a bike with friends or family.
To add more about maintenance, customers testify of quick and knowledgeable service. A satisfied client noted that a technician explained everything that they were doing, put air in the tires, and the charge was only $20. He definitely will be back when his bike needs a tune-up, and will recommend Old Strathcona Cycles to everyone.
Average prices:
Contact or see in store availability.
Operating hours:
Sunday – Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday: 10 a.m.—5 p.m.
Wednesday – Saturday: 10 a.m.—6 p.m.
Contact: (587) – 523 – 6453
Address: 10135 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 1Z5
Pros
- Convenient location.
- Selection of useful biking merchandise.
Cons
- A few reviewers found maintenance services overpriced.
Cycle-Logic
Cycle-Logic is one of the long-established shops that began in 1987. What they offer is a wide range of services, including racing, coaching, training, building bicycles, and custom fitting.
We recommend this place if you are especially concerned with choosing the right size of a bike: Cycle-Logic uses GURU Cycles Dynamic Fit Unit to find the right fit for each rider who walks into the store. The way they do it is by allowing you to feel adjustments to your riding position in real-time: you keep pedaling while your position is being altered.
Another factor which makes customers trust the staff at the store is knowledgeable owner (Rich). He draws his experience from years of racing, and coaching as well as “keeping his finger on the pulse of current engineering breakthroughs to provide an unmatched, guaranteed fit.”
A reviewer noted that even though she did not buy a bike from the store directly, Rich did the bike fit for her, adjusted their cleats and made sure that all the parts are moving smoothly. Last but not least, he is doing all of these without any charge. Rich is such a nice person to work with, she will definitely buy my next bike from him, the customer noted.
Average prices:
Contact for services and prices.
Operating hours:
Sunday – Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday – Friday: 11 a.m.—5:30 p.m.
Saturday: 12—5:30 p.m.
Contact: (780) – 433 – 1046
Address: 7805 109 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C6
Pros
- Personalized bike adjustments.
- Various services offered.
Cons
- No particularly negative reviews.
Why Trust Us
Buying a bike might be less confusing than buying a car, it requires many elements to consider and often the help of an expert. That is why researching the best bike shops in Edmonton we made sure to present you with a list of variations.
Selected shops earned at least 4.5 stars on Google and hundreds of positive reviews. Customers both new and regular speak of their favourite shops, sales experts and mechanics that assisted them in finding a perfect bike or maintaining an old one.
Edmonton cycle shops display a well-curated selection of mountain, road, and e-bikes as well as more budget-friendly options for a city commute.
Finally, we considered opinions of other buying guides such as Biker Radar and Consumer Reports that interviewed and consulted industry experts on how to buy the best bike for your lifestyle.
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Updated date
April 28th, 2023
About the author
Maria Kossman
Maria Kossman is an essayist, and content specialist at Rant-it.ca. Her writing appeared in a variety of fashion magazines. When she is not focused on reviewing and writing, she spends time exploring coffee shops, English literature and antique malls.
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