When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Nearly New Bicycles
Why Nearly New Bicycles is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Nearly New Bicycles, located conveniently in Chicago's Uptown neighborhood, is a beloved local bike shop renowned for offering a diverse selection of affordable, quality used bicycles, including vintage Schwinn models and Columbia Trailheads. Operated by the knowledgeable duo Ron and Sonya, the shop prides itself on delivering exceptional customer service, creating a welcoming and personal shopping experience for both casual riders and bike enthusiasts. The store is an ideal gathering spot for friends and cycling aficionados looking to find unique bikes that stand out from the crowd. Open six days a week from noon to 8 PM, Nearly New Bicycles also provides quick and reliable bike repair services, making it a convenient one-stop shop for all cycling needs. The shop’s dedication to quality is evident in the continuous quality checks performed on their refurbished offerings, ensuring customers receive dependable, well-maintained products. Whether you're searching for an affordable vintage ride, need maintenance on your current bike, or simply want to chat with friendly bike experts, Nearly New Bicycles offers an inviting environment perfect for meeting up with friends and sharing a passion for cycling.
Here's what people think of Nearly New Bicycles
As of recent, Nearly New Bicycles holds a 4.9-star rating based on 266 reviews.
With an outstanding rating of 4.9 based on 266 reviews, Nearly New Bicycles clearly excels in customer satisfaction. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly and knowledgeable staff, particularly Ron and Sonya, who are appreciated for their attentive, personalized service and deep biking expertise. Customers also highlight the shop's excellent selection of well-priced and unique used bikes that often can’t be found elsewhere, making it a favorite bike shop in Chicago. Positive reviews mention the hassle-free repair services and the welcoming atmosphere that invites both novices and experienced cyclists. On the other hand, some negative feedback, albeit minimal, notes that the shop operates on a cash-only basis, which can be inconvenient for some customers. A few reviewers pointed out limited weekday hours to start at noon, which may not fit everyone's schedule. Despite these minor concerns, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing high-quality bikes, fair pricing, and exceptional customer care. Nearly New Bicycles stands out as a reliable, community-focused shop that provides both great products and a warm environment for bike lovers to gather and connect.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Tuck Murray
This place is great. Read the reviews ahead of time and thought it would be the right place to find a cool used road bike. My visit went exactly how I thought it would. The owners (Ron & Sonya) are very friendly. I explained to Ron what kind of bike I was looking for and he pointed out a few options in the front of the shop. He let me test out a Maroon Raleigh 12 speed from 1983 around the block. It ran perfectly. Before selling it to me, Ron said he would swap out the tires with fresh ones. I talked with Sonya while he fixed it up. Afterward, he rang me up (cash only) and I was on my way. The bike has been really fun to ride around the city and has cut my commute time to work dramatically. I’ve been so happy with it I figured I should write a review as well. Highly recommend checking out their shop if you’re looking for new wheels.
Nicky Jasper
All of the glowing positive reviews about this place are accurate: I had the BEST experience yesterday shopping for a new bike after mine was stolen a few months ago. I admittedly know very little bike “jargon”—I just needed something that was going to get me from point A to point B—but they asked thoughtful questions to figure out what kind of bike I was looking for, pulled multiple options for me to check out, and let me test ride several bikes to make sure they were a good fit. I am very happy with my purchase and overall experience.
Maddy Eichenberg
I can’t recommend this place enough! Sonya and Ron were the sweetest, and took great care of me. They let me test ride every bike they had that would fit my height, and kept encouraging me to really try them out, since they wanted me to love a bike, not just settle for one. The shop was busy with people in and out, but several people told me that they didn’t mind waiting or coming back, since this was the best bike shop in the city. Once I picked a bike, Sonya and Ron chatted with me and kept me laughing while Ron made final adjustments based on my test ride. They have a 60 day warranty and told me even past that they were happy to have me come in for help, adjustments, air, oil, etc. Can’t recommend this small business enough!! Edit: I wish I could give 10 stars! I had an unfortunate incident only a week after getting my bike, and the front wheel was completely bent. As soon as I walked in the shop, Ron fixed me up immediately, finding me a brand new wheel and giving the bike another once over. Both Sonya and Ron made sure I hadn’t hurt myself in the crash before turning to the bike, which was so sweet. I’m a customer forever!
Bridget Kunkel
The 248 excellent reviews don't lie - this place is a hidden gem! Rode away with the most perfect bike for me at a super fair and reasonable price. Sonya and Ron are super kind and care about their customers. Awesome place!
Chad Emerson
I STRONGLY RECOMMEND this business for anyone who needs bike repairs. Very knowledgeable, quick, great pricing, etc. This business is the total package, great people who are great with their customers. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
How to reach Nearly New Bicycles
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Why Nearly New Bicycles may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Nearly New Bicycles with your friends? Because this bike shop isn't just a place to buy a bicycle—it’s a vibrant community hub tailored for groups who share a passion for cycling or simply want to enjoy a memorable outing together. With an exceptional rating of 4.9 out of 5 from over 260 reviews, Nearly New Bicycles has earned a reputation for outstanding customer service, expert knowledge, and an inviting atmosphere that welcomes beginners and seasoned cyclists alike. The staff’s genuine and approachable manner makes everyone feel comfortable, even those who may be new to biking or unsure about what bike to choose. As a meetup spot with friends or family, it offers not only quality bicycles but also an experience that combines education, camaraderie, and fun. Whether you and your group are looking to explore new trails, upgrade your current gear, or just spend a day immersed in a shared hobby, Nearly New Bicycles becomes much more than a retail location—it transforms into a gathering place full of energy, expert advice, and lots of enthusiasm for all things cycling.
What kind of activities can a group do at Nearly New Bicycles? First and foremost, the shop features a wide selection of high-quality used bicycles that cater to all interests and skill levels. Your group can spend time browsing and test-riding different bikes, comparing features and finding the perfect match for everyone's preferences and needs. This process alone encourages lively discussions and bonding as you share opinions and tips among friends. The knowledgeable staff provide detailed guidance to help each person find a bike that suits their style and budget without any pressure, enhancing the group experience. Beyond shopping, Nearly New Bicycles hosts occasional group rides and events, which make for fantastic opportunities to enjoy Chicago’s scenic bike routes together. These rides build community, encourage healthy activity, and form lasting memories. Additionally, the store offers repair and maintenance services, so groups can learn quick tune-up skills or have their bikes serviced while relaxing with friends, making it easy to extend your visit meaningfully.
Why is Nearly New Bicycles the perfect place for a group meetup? The answer lies in its balance of professionalism and warmth. Unlike many big-box stores or impersonal outlets, Nearly New feels like a neighborhood spot where every visitor is treated like a friend. The welcoming environment encourages social interaction among customers, which is ideal for groups wanting a relaxed but purposeful outing. Its accessible location in Chicago makes it easy for everyone to gather without hassle. The store’s hours, from noon to 8 PM daily, provide ample flexibility to plan meetups at convenient times, from afternoon explorations to early evening sessions. Moreover, the fair pricing on used bikes means your group can enjoy quality products without the sticker shock of new models, which is perfect for friends or family who want to get into cycling without a huge investment. The addition of expert advice, safety tips, and community rides ensures that everyone feels supported, making it more than just a shopping trip—it's an immersive, social experience that your group will want to repeat.
What should your group expect when visiting Nearly New Bicycles? Expect an engaging and informative visit where you can take your time considering options, try out different bikes, and soak in the enthusiasm of experienced cyclists and staff members ready to assist you. The atmosphere is friendly and down-to-earth, making it easy for everyone to participate regardless of previous biking experience. Groups can also access a comprehensive range of bike accessories, such as helmets, locks, and lights, enabling you to gear up for group rides immediately. There is a sense of community and shared passion that emerges naturally, encouraging your friends and family to connect not only through the bikes themselves but through the stories and advice exchanged in the shop. Plus, the emphasis on quality and affordability helps group members feel confident about their purchase choices, knowing they're getting excellent value and support from a trusted local business.
How can Nearly New Bicycles enhance the experience of cycling meetups and group rides around Chicago? The shop acts as a central hub for planning and preparing your group's adventures on two wheels. With its extensive inventory of bicycles suitable for all terrains—from casual city cruisers to more rugged models for trail riding—everyone in your group can find something that fits their style. The staff can also recommend local routes and share safety tips, helping your group explore Chicago and nearby areas confidently. For groups looking to expand their biking skills, Nearly New often provides or promotes workshops and repair clinics, fostering a community of cyclists who can support each other well beyond the initial visit. This kind of ongoing engagement turns simple meetups into rich social experiences, encouraging repeated visits and stronger connections among cycling enthusiasts.
What makes the shopping experience at Nearly New Bicycles unique for groups? The shop's commitment to customer-centered service ensures that every group member, regardless of cycling knowledge, feels empowered to make the best decision for themselves. The “nearly new” inventory means you’re getting bikes that are like new but at a fraction of the cost, often with unique character or previous stories, which can spark interesting conversations in the group. Unlike large retail chains, Nearly New offers a personable and personalized shopping journey, making the process fun and educational rather than overwhelming. The staff’s undemeaning and knowledgeable approach means even novices feel confident engaging and asking questions. This dynamic creates an inviting environment where groups can bond over shared interests, learn together, and leave feeling excited and prepared for new biking adventures.
How does Nearly New Bicycles support responsible and sustainable cycling choices for groups? Nearly New’s focus on pre-owned bicycles aligns with environmentally conscious consumer behavior, promoting the reuse and recycling of quality bikes. This approach appeals to groups who value sustainability and want to reduce their ecological footprint while enjoying outdoor activities. By offering expertly inspected used bikes, Nearly New helps extend the lifecycle of cycling equipment, reducing waste and the demand for new manufacturing resources. For groups, this means you can enjoy your leisure activity with an awareness of environmental impact, sparking deeper discussions about sustainability during your meetups. The shop also encourages safe, responsible bike ownership by providing maintenance services and advice, ensuring that any bike purchased performs safely and efficiently, which benefits the entire cycling community.
What are the benefits of Nearly New Bicycles’ location and facilities for group meetups? Conveniently situated in Chicago, Nearly New is easily accessible by car or public transit, making group gatherings seamless to organize. The shop's layout is spacious enough to accommodate groups browsing together without feeling cramped, allowing everyone to move freely and interact comfortably. Its hours of operation, staying open until 8 PM daily, give groups the luxury of scheduling meetups around busy work or school days, even extending into the evening. The proximity to popular cycle routes and urban parks means your group can shop, gear up, and then head out for a ride without long travel times. These factors combine to make Nearly New not only a retail destination but a practical and preferable meetup spot where the logistics of group outings are easily managed.
What role does Nearly New Bicycles play in fostering a community of cyclists? Nearly New is more than a bike shop—it's a gathering place for cycling enthusiasts that welcomes newcomers and veterans alike. Its friendly, knowledgeable staff take pride in supporting local cyclists by helping them find exactly what they need to enjoy biking safely and confidently. The shop encourages dialogue and social exchange about biking trends, maintenance tips, and route recommendations, cultivating a vibrant network of riders. For groups, this translates into a welcoming social environment where connections can form organically, enabling shared adventures and cooperation beyond the walls of the store. Seasonal events and group rides organized or promoted by Nearly New also help build camaraderie and foster a spirit of collective enjoyment and support within the cycling community. This strong communal aspect enhances the value of Nearly New Bicycles as the ultimate destination for group meetups centered around cycling.
In conclusion, Nearly New Bicycles offers a compelling destination for friends or family looking to enjoy an active, social, and rewarding outing. From its unbeatable customer service and carefully curated selection of quality used bikes to its role as a community hub supporting group rides, education, and sustainable cycling, Nearly New creates an environment where groups can thrive together. Whether you are shopping for your first bike, upgrading gear, or just want to spend a day engaged with a shared passion, Nearly New provides all the ingredients for a successful meetup that blends fun, learning, and connection.