When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Backpedal Cycleworks
Why Backpedal Cycleworks is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Backpedal Cycleworks is a well-established neighborhood bike shop located in Portland, Oregon, known for its expert bike sales and comprehensive repair services. With over 17 years in business, it has become a staple in the Woodstock, Arleta, and Lents areas, offering a community-centered experience for cyclists of all levels. The shop originally began as a home-based operation focused on repairs and vintage bike sales, gradually expanding to serve a wider range of needs including commuter bikes, road bikes, and cyclocross models. Backpedal Cycleworks is especially appealing for those who depend on biking for transportation as well as recreational cyclists looking for high-quality service and knowledgeable staff. The owner, Rick Shaputis, is a Portland native and a graduate of the United Bicycle Institute with 8 years of bike repair experience. The shop is known for fostering a community atmosphere, with an envisioned bike loaner program for customers needing temporary transportation during repairs. Located in the heart of the Mt. Scott neighborhood, it's a perfect meetup spot for friends and cycling enthusiasts to discuss bikes, get repairs done, or shop for the perfect ride.
Here's what people think of Backpedal Cycleworks
As of recent, Backpedal Cycleworks holds a 4.3-star rating based on 101 reviews.
Reviewers of Backpedal Cycleworks generally praise the shop for its welcoming atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and reliable repair services. Many positive reviews highlight the owner's expertise and genuine commitment to the cycling community, underlining how the shop serves both casual riders and daily commuters effectively. Customers appreciate the personalized service and the shop's focus on commuter bikes as well as classic and entry-level models. The friendly environment and the community spirit are also commonly mentioned in favorable comments. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to occasional issues such as longer wait times for repairs or limited bike stock, which can be a downside for customers needing immediate service or specific models. A few patrons have mentioned that communication during busy periods could improve. Overall, the majority of reviews affirm the high quality of service and community-centered approach that defines Backpedal Cycleworks, making it a trusted and highly recommended local bike shop in Portland.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ronald Peters
Stumbled upon Backpedal Cyclery while in the neighborhood and decided to pop in. Glad I did—the owner was super easygoing and genuinely enjoyable to chat with. The shop has a solid selection of gear, tools, and bikes, all priced competitively. It’s clear he knows his stuff, and I’d have a lot of confidence bringing a bike here for service or maintenance. If I lived in Portland, this is definitely the kind of place I’d trust to get me set up and keep me rolling. Great local vibe, highly recommend stopping in.
Jacqui Murray
This place is great, cool store front, he is super honest, even affordable. I took my Rad Wagon in because I could not get it to power on and had confirmation it was not the battery. Dave got it up and running at what feels like an amazing price. He’s a reputable repair through Rad, lucky to have him in the neighborhood.
Robert Petersen
The real story is that the owner must be hurting financially; he will do anything to charge you as much as possible. Inflate a tire 25.00 new tubes, $25.00, that's right, you go in with a flat tire and walk out $55.00 less in your pocket, all while bravely insulting you as not a professional bike repairman
Randy Flip
I ordered a bmx from Canada from this shop, had been looking for it for years.. David is a very honest business man, I sent the full amount for the bike + shipping (shipping was more than the bike itself). I highly recommend the shop. Bike was packaged with care.
Matheas Michaels
Disappointed in myself for not leaving a review after all these years of coming here. This shop is a fixtures in the local community, and I am so grateful for the honest, and attentive work they provide. Thanks, Dave!
How to reach Backpedal Cycleworks
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Why Backpedal Cycleworks may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Backpedal Cycleworks with your friends?
Backpedal Cycleworks offers an exceptional gathering spot for groups of friends or family who have a shared enthusiasm for cycling and community connection. Located in the vibrant Southeast Portland neighborhood, it provides more than just bicycle repairs—it delivers a unique social experience grounded in local spirit and camaraderie. Meeting here means enjoying a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where everyone from cycling novices to seasoned riders feels comfortable and valued. You can support a neighborhood business that thrives on personal attention and expertise, making it easy to bond over common interests and shared rides. The shop’s open, friendly vibe combined with its central location means it naturally becomes a hub for friends to catch up, plan biking adventures, or simply hang out while your bike gets tuned up. It invites a sense of community not often found in typical service shops, making it an ideal spot to rally, recharge, and connect with others who appreciate quality service and cycling culture.
What types of activities can groups enjoy at Backpedal Cycleworks?
Backpedal Cycleworks caters to a variety of activities that perfectly suit group meetups, especially for those who love bicycles and the outdoors. First and foremost, the shop offers full-service bicycle repair that can spark conversation and collaboration. Watching expert mechanics at work encourages curiosity and learning, and it’s a shared experience that engages everyone in the group. The open mechanic area is visible to customers, allowing your friends to observe the “bike magic” unfolding, which can be a captivating way to pass the time. While some friends wait for repairs, others can explore local coffee shops nearby, creating natural extensions for socializing. Additionally, since the shop is deeply embedded in the community, it often acts as a launch point for local group rides, scavenger hunts, or cycling events planned with friends. This makes Backpedal Cycleworks a versatile venue for both casual hangouts and active, bike-centric gatherings.
Why is Backpedal Cycleworks perfect for hosting a group meetup?
The layout and philosophy of Backpedal Cycleworks are perfectly geared towards accommodating groups who want more than a quick bike fix. The shop’s customer-first approach means repairs often happen while you wait, especially minor fixes like flat tire repairs, making visits efficient and enjoyable. There is a small but cozy waiting area designed with family-friendliness in mind, including toys that entertain children, helping keep young ones occupied and happy. This thoughtful detail shows how the shop encourages multi-generational visits and group outings where everyone can feel comfortable. Its community-focused nature fosters a welcoming environment that encourages interaction not only among friends but also with staff and other customers, turning a routine bike visit into a memorable social experience. Moreover, the shop’s reputation for quick, attentive service means your group won’t be stuck waiting around for hours, freeing up time to explore the surrounding neighborhood or grab a bite together.
How does Backpedal Cycleworks support group cycling adventures?
Backpedal Cycleworks is not just a repair shop but an integral part of Portland’s cycling culture, making it ideal for groups planning rides or exploring the city’s extensive bike paths. The shop’s knowledgeable staff can help prepare your bikes for group excursions, ensuring every ride starts safely and smoothly. They understand the commitment bike commuters make and offer special services to get you back on the road quickly when issues arise, which is critical for groups relying on everyone’s bike to be in top shape. Additionally, the shop’s location is convenient for accessing popular cycling routes, making it a strategic meetup spot for rides ranging from leisurely family outings to more intense group exercises. By serving as a consigliere for local cycling knowledge, Backpedal Cycleworks also helps groups discover new trails, events, or cycling-related activities. This makes it more than just a maintenance stop—it’s a launching pad for shared adventures.
What makes Backpedal Cycleworks stand out compared to other bike shops?
Backpedal Cycleworks distinguishes itself through strong community values and a focus on personalized service that many larger, commercial bike shops lack. Being locally owned and neighborhood-focused means it can offer lighter traffic and shorter wait times, enhancing the overall customer experience. Its first-come, first-served policy adds a level of convenience for spontaneous visits, which is perfect for groups who may not want to schedule appointments but want to drop by together. Staff members are not only skilled mechanics but also passionate cycling enthusiasts who genuinely care about supporting riders of all levels. The open layout with visible workspaces adds transparency and an educational dimension to the visit, which is rare and appreciated by customers wanting to learn more about their bikes. These features combine to create a welcoming, resource-rich environment where groups feel encouraged to engage, learn, and foster lasting connections through their shared love of cycling.
How does the shop accommodate families and children during visits?
Backpedal Cycleworks thoughtfully incorporates family-friendly touches that make it easy for parents to bring children along during visits. The small waiting area features toys and a kid-friendly space designed to keep young riders entertained, helping parents relax without worry. This not only creates a calmer atmosphere but also encourages families to view biking as a shared activity and communal experience. The neighborhood vibe means it’s a safe and supportive place for children to feel welcome and for families to bond over cycling interests. The staff’s approachable manner further reassures families that they are valued customers regardless of age or cycling ability. By accommodating children with care and recognition, Backpedal Cycleworks invites entire families to join in on meetups, repairs, or ride planning without sacrificing convenience or comfort.
What kinds of repairs and services does Backpedal Cycleworks provide for groups?
Backpedal Cycleworks offers a comprehensive range of repair services designed to meet the needs of diverse cyclists within a group setting. From minor repairs like fixing flats and brake adjustments to major tune-ups and full overhauls, the shop is well-equipped to handle various issues efficiently. Many minor services are performed immediately while customers wait, which is ideal for groups seeking quick turnarounds that don’t disrupt plans. For more extensive repairs, typical wait times are generally five days or less, even during busy seasons, signaling reliability and professionalism. The shop’s open mechanic area also allows groups to observe repairs, enhancing trust and understanding of the work being done. Even in busy times, the shop prioritizes bike commuters and ensures that critical repairs are expedited to keep everyone moving. This makes Backpedal Cycleworks dependable for group meetups where bike readiness is essential.
How is the location of Backpedal Cycleworks advantageous for group meetups?
Backpedal Cycleworks is situated in a lively Southeast Portland neighborhood that boasts easy access to local cafés, parks, and bike-friendly streets, creating numerous opportunities for social activities beyond the shop itself. Its central location makes it accessible to residents in the Woodstock, Arleta, and Lents areas, ideal for groups spread across these neighborhoods. This positioning means meetups can blend practical errands—like bike care—with leisure outings such as grabbing coffee or embarking on a group ride without needing to travel far. The surrounding streets are bike-friendly and safe, reinforcing the shop’s role as a natural assembly point for cyclists. The neighborhood’s welcoming vibe complements the shop’s community-driven approach, ensuring groups feel part of a larger cycling culture deeply rooted in this area.
What kind of atmosphere can groups expect during their visit?
The atmosphere at Backpedal Cycleworks is relaxed, friendly, and authentic, reflecting the local Portland spirit of inclusivity and sustainability. Unlike larger, impersonal retailers, this shop prides itself on being a community hub where faces are familiar and every visitor’s needs are met with genuine attention. Customers often report feeling like part of a community rather than just a transaction. This sense of warmth permeates the space—a colorful, well-organized shop with visible working areas and comfortable waiting spots, all designed to encourage interaction and learning. For groups, this environment fosters communication, connection, and shared enthusiasm for cycling. It’s a place where beginners can ask questions without intimidation and experienced riders can share tips, helping everyone feel empowered to enjoy biking together.
Why is Backpedal Cycleworks highly rated by customers?
Backpedal Cycleworks’ 4.3-star rating from more than 100 reviews reflects strong customer satisfaction rooted in dependable service, friendly staff, and community focus. Customers often highlight the shop’s promptness in handling repairs, the mechanics’ expertise, and the welcoming atmosphere as key reasons they return and recommend the business. The combination of technical skill and local charm earns high marks, especially from those seeking a trustworthy bike shop that prioritizes their needs over quick profits. The ability to accommodate walk-ins and deliver efficient service even during peak seasons enhances its appeal. Moreover, the shop’s commitment to supporting bike commuters and families alike makes it a versatile option praised across different user groups. This reputation makes Backpedal Cycleworks a reliable and enjoyable destination for groups looking to combine quality bike care with social connection.