Northeast - D.C. bike shops

I did a search and the results were not helpful.

My brother moved to DC...well, Crystal City Va to be exact, and is looking to invest in a commuter bike ~$500 (including all the add-ons: lock, helmet, lights, etc.)

Can anyone recommend some good shops with friendly and patient service?

I saw this one (http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/bestof/2008/goodsandservices/show.php?id=35347), and liked what I read. But any suggestions would be very helpful.

Thanks all!

There is a "Spokes Etc" bike shop in Arlington that is good. I buy my bikes at Capitol Hill Bikes near my house. It is an easy drive or metro from Crystal City to the Hill.

In addition to Spokes, Etc, there is a Performance Bike shop about 5mi away but not metro accessible. Also, REI is a few blocks from Performance. Both offer less expensive commuter bikes and often have sales. I'd try Performance first b/c of price point. Spokes Etc. carries Trek, Specialized and maybe Raleigh. I'm not sure if Raleigh's prices. Cap hill bikes is metro accessible and so it Conte's Bike shop in Arlington. However, both carry brands that may be more expensive for starters. Spokes definintely has good service and nice, no-attitude, wrenches. Finally, don't forget about craigslist for good deals w/ in any particular budget.

Washington Checkbook just did a comparison of bikes shops all over the DC area. Three pages on the list, so around 100 shops. Price, quality and customer satisfaction for both new sales and repairs. Also compares the major online sites.

Washington checkbook is a membership organization, but anyone can buy a report online.

Thanks all! I'll pass all this on to my brother.

Mike/Slim_77