kegoguinness

I know this runs the "beat a dead horse" risk, as a lot has been written about bringing folders into stores. I think this is worth reiterating and sharing:

So much of my success in bringing my folder into stores in my city neighborhood is about attitute. I mean two things by this:
1. Confident and non-chalant---as others have posted, I act like my folder and I belong in the store. IMHO, this is the biggest factor in my success in bringing the bike into stores. Security guards look at me funny, but as soon as I act like a regular shopper (hi, can you tell me where the shampoo is?) there's no fuss and no questioning.

2. Polite and enthusiastic---when asked about the bike by employees I answer all questions and talk about how much I love the bike. Today, I went to an Ace Hardware in my neighborhood. Not only did an employee working the register/till ask me about my bike, but after a cheerful discussion, she offered to let me store it behind the register while I shopped!

I guess I am saying that for me, in my part of D.C., confidence, politeness and enthusiasm work very well. Instead of going in ready to do battle I go in ready to shop.

KitN

Very good points. Act like it's normal to bring a folder inside, be courteous and most places won't have a problem.

I've taken my bike into stores even some cafes and restaurants but I try to only do so on off-peak, slow hours when crowding and space isn't an issue or I simply fold up my bike and put it in it's bag.

Lalato

I agree wholeheartedly. I have only ever had a problem entering an office building, and once I bagged the bike, they were even OK with that.

In fact, it was kinda funny. the guards were shocked that the bike fit in a bag, so they gave up their protests that bikes weren't allowed in buildings as it was no longer a bike, but a bag.

--sam

rhm

+1. I take mine into stores in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Long Island City, &c. The security guy at one store that I frequent asks me to stow it in the corner near the door where he stands guard. Other stores let me in, no problem. You have to use your judgement; there are stores I wouldn't try, either because they're cramped or because the wares are fragile. No matter what you do, be nice. If someone offers advice, even bad advice, thank them sincerely.

jur

I thank you sincerely.

vincentnyc

not i only do it in stores...i just wheel my folded bike into a business building today...security guards looked confuse and asked me if they can help me. i asked where is so and so and they told me the 15th floor and away i went into the elavator w/o even bagging my bike.

KitN

Folders rule!

neilfein

That's awesome. It's all about attitude and confidence, but security guards are awfully good at these themselves; this is after all a huge part of their job. Well done.