Braldar

Is there a list floating around somewhere of LBS' with some touring knowledge? I'm in Bowling Green, Ky and while we have two good shops, neither know the first thing about touring, nor do they carry touring bikes or supplies. I would like to be able to see how different bikes fit and be able to see gear in real life (instead of on the internet) before I buy it. Does anyone know of any shops in western Ky or northern Tn?

Also, if there isn't a list out there, maybe we should start one and sticky it with some way of showing whether the shop is knowledgable of touring or just good for repairs. It seems like it would be helpful to those riding in the states in unfamiliar territory.

john bono

Honestly, there aren't very many shops that deal with tourers that much. Lots of stuff for racerboy, hybrid/comfort bikes, and mtn bikes, but shops that stock touring bikes and touring gear are pretty few and far between. The only place local to me that was/is able to do a soup-to-nuts job of equipping a rider for a tour was REI. Most of the shops I've seen don't even stock touring bikes.

mtclifford

My LBS in Morgantown, WV Wamsley Cycles doesn't stock a lot of touring gear or supplies but is very knowledgeable and will order anything you want. The owner did a lot of touring in the 70s and 80s and is really helpful. Then again it is a pretty long drive from Bowling Green.

mattm3

I looked at Wamsley for a Trek 520 last year and he said they carry them if they can keep them in stock (not in stock when I was there). That is a good store though. There's another store in downtown Morgantown that sells bikes and I believe they had both of the Cannondale touring bikes. REI is a good choice if you have one close by but you are limited to their brand of bikes. I think it's hard to find one store that sells multiple brands of touring bikes and equipment. You have to travel around to comparison shop.

Weasel9

Knowledgeable LBS?

Isn't that an oxymoron?



Bikes themselves aside, a great guy to talk to about racks/panniers is Wayne at thetouringstore.com. He's been super helpful with info, experience, and suggestions. Really nice to deal with, I've enjoyed every interaction I've had with him.

oldranger

Not at all, at least not here in Ventura, CA, astride the Pacific Coast Route. I have gotten good advice, and great service from Open Air Bicycles. I understand touring cyclists have priority status for repair work.

The owner loves to build wheels. He built me a pair in 2001 which I have used for commuting and touring since. No problems whatever.