When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
R+E Cycles (Rodriguez Bicycle Company)
Why R+E Cycles (Rodriguez Bicycle Company) is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
R+E Cycles, also known as Rodriguez Bicycle Company, is a distinguished American bicycle manufacturer located in Seattle's University District. This shop specializes in high-quality tandem bicycles, cyclocross, mountain (MTB), and road bicycles, with a strong focus on custom-built bikes tailored to the unique needs of each rider. Offering an extensive range of models from adventure touring to fixed gear and folding bicycles, R+E Cycles provides a comprehensive selection to suit various cycling preferences and requirements. The company is renowned for designing its own bicycle fitting system called Next-fit™, which ensures that every bike fits its owner perfectly. With all tools and components crafted on-site by skilled staff, R+E Cycles embodies a true artisanal approach to bicycle manufacturing and servicing. The shop's welcoming environment near the University of Washington campus makes it an excellent spot for cycling enthusiasts to meet, explore custom options, and receive expert advice. Additionally, its reputation for exceptional customer care and the ability to create bespoke bikes — even complex tandems designed for unique rider combinations — makes it a favored local destination for both casual cyclists and serious riders.
Here's what people think of R+E Cycles (Rodriguez Bicycle Company)
As of recent, R+E Cycles (Rodriguez Bicycle Company) holds a 4.8-star rating based on 74 reviews.
Customer reviews consistently highlight R+E Cycles’ exceptional service and personalized attention. Many praise the staff’s dedication, noting how they invest significant time to ensure bikes fit perfectly and perform reliably, even under demanding conditions such as long-distance rides. Positive reviewers often mention the helpfulness and expertise of owner Dan Towle and his team, including their willingness to accommodate unusual requests and make custom modifications such as swapping handlebars to relieve rider discomfort. The shop's custom tandem bicycles, tailored to rider height and weight differences, received particularly strong acclaim for clever design solutions that cater to diverse needs. On the other hand, negative feedback is minimal but occasionally points to challenges like longer wait times for fully custom orders or the higher price point compared to mass-market bikes — understandable given the craftsmanship involved. Overall, the consensus is that R+E Cycles delivers outstanding value through personalized service, expert fitting, and durable, custom-made bicycles. Customers appreciate that they are not just buying a bike but entering into a relationship with a knowledgeable and passionate company committed to long-term support and satisfaction.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
MARC NORDLUND
Alder did an AMAZING job with the black primer over the weld job of my seat stays and seat tube. Can't give enough praise to the technicians at R&E Cycles. We LOVE our bike builders/technicians!!!🚴🚴🚴🚴🚴
Andrew Lim
R+E’s motto says that when you buy a bike from them, you buy the entire shop team- and it is absolutely true! I built a custom gravel bike with them in 2020, and have been going to them for services/repairs ever since. From custom frame design/decal/paint options with owner Dan, to personalized bike fitting and choosing components/parts with Smiley in sales, these guys really made the process of building your dream bike a joy every step of the way, from start to “new bike day”, without some of the attitude that one can get at other custom bike shops :) While going custom may seem pricey at first, I can attest to the fact that I’ve saved so much $ over time by having exactly the bike I wanted, done right the first time, with a steel frame that fits me like a glove, is stiff, light, indestructible, and rides like butter through pretty much anything I throw at it. Since that day, I’ve gone back for services with lead mechanic Alder and the whole crew. They take all the stress out of bike maintenance, are super kind, thorough, attentive to detail, and really do a fantastic job of thoughtfully catering their services to how YOU want to ride your bike. They will make honest recommendations and offer the right advice for you, not trying to make a profit for them or upsale on anything, and will be really fair about doing right by your bike until you are satisfied. Yeah the service may not be the cheapest you’ll find in town, but I promise that with R&E you get what you pay for- I.e bike tune ups done so right by experienced mechanics that I only have needed to go back on average once a year for minor adjustments, despite commuting/gravel riding/ bike camping / generally abusing my bike through rain and snow, year round - of course speaking from my own experience here, your miles will vary :). Anyways, R&E is that rare Seattle gem that retains so much soul, local charm, and personal touches from all the staff while still providing truly the best bike service I’ve experienced in my 20+ years of riding. It’s a rare and very special shop, team, and really a whole community ! Pictures of my bike and a recent R&E organized group ride :)
Cedric Easley
Fantastic company building great bikes! Just had a custom Phinney Ridge built around 650B, thru axles, all the proper refinements you’d come to expect. Smiley did my initial fit, great experience, and the final product just oozes comfort. Such a comfortable bike and I felt right at home on it from the first day. 5 weeks in, 1,200 miles on it, absolutely enamored with how it rides, how it looks and can confidently say this will be my #1 drop bar bike for a very long time. I use this bike recreationally, it’s my road bike, my training bike, gravel grinder, gravel race, and light bikepacking/touring/rando rig. It does it all, comfortably, and that speaks volumes. Just did a 130 mile day like it was nothing, ride quality allows for the big days to be a success. Can’t go wrong with a Rodriguez, long live USA hand built frames! The shop is also well stocked with anything else you might need and as always, if they don’t have it, it can be ordered.
Scott
So happy with my new Phinney Ridge bike! Smiley and Alder and all the folks at Rodriguez did a fantastic job, from the custom fit to helping me figure out all the final details. I love the color and the bike only came in at only 23lbs! It's a dream to ride!
Richard Witt
If you are looking for a custom bike experience, go here. We flew over 2000 miles from the Midwest to go through the fit process for our custom tandem. Smiley is VERY good at what he does. I’ve been riding for 45 years, and I still learned a few things. I can’t recommend this more. We are looking forward to the rest of the process. Will update as required.
How to reach R+E Cycles (Rodriguez Bicycle Company)
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Why R+E Cycles (Rodriguez Bicycle Company) may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at R+E Cycles (Rodriguez Bicycle Company) with your friends? Because this unique bicycle shop in Seattle’s University District is more than just a place to buy or repair bikes—it’s a vibrant hub for cycling enthusiasts that offers a rich, personalized experience for groups and individuals alike. With a stellar rating of 4.8 out of 74 reviews, the company’s reputation for quality craftsmanship and exceptional customer service is well-earned. Whether you and your friends are casual riders, committed cyclists, or just looking for a place to gather and share your passion for biking, R+E Cycles promises an inviting atmosphere tailored to meet all your cycling needs. They design and create custom bicycles—including tandems perfect for riding with a buddy—making it an ideal spot to explore bike fitting, maintenance, and group rides together. The shop’s location near the University of Washington adds to its appeal, making it accessible and a natural meeting point for students, locals, and visiting cyclists eager to discover quality bikes and connect over shared experiences. Rallying here combines the excitement of expert guidance, the fun of exploring new bike models with friends, and the bonding of a community centered around movement and adventure.
What activities can you enjoy at R+E Cycles that make it perfect for a group meetup? First and foremost, the shop offers in-depth custom bike fittings using their unique Next-fit™ system, ensuring every rider in your group finds a bicycle perfectly tailored to their size and riding style. This personalized service is invaluable for groups looking to ensure everyone rides comfortably and safely. Beyond fittings, customers can explore a broad range of bicycle styles designed and crafted in-house, including tandems for shared rides, cyclocross bikes for off-road adventures, mountain bikes, and classic road models. These diverse offerings cater to different group interests and skill levels, meaning everyone can find a ride suited to their adventure preferences. The shop’s in-house manufacturing and repair services mean groups can not only purchase bikes but also get hands-on demonstrations, maintenance tips, and expert repairs—all within a welcoming environment staffed by passionate, long-tenured employees who know their products inside and out. The communal atmosphere fosters camaraderie as groups plan rides, share experiences, and deepen their knowledge about biking together.
What makes R+E Cycles especially suitable for group gatherings? The atmosphere and philosophy of the shop emphasize community and long-term relationships. The staff’s dedication to customer satisfaction and high-quality craftsmanship means your group will feel supported from the moment you walk in. Because the workshop is known for building bicycles from pre-drawn custom plans and pioneering technologies like their proprietary fitting software, it offers an educational experience for casual riders and experts alike. Groups can enjoy demonstrations on bike assembly, learn about specialized parts like their Adventure or UTB touring models, or discover the benefits of fixed gear bikes—all tailored to different riding styles and preferences. The shop’s location on the Ave in Seattle’s University District is not only convenient but nestled in a lively neighborhood full of eateries, coffee shops, and parks—perfect for post-ride socializing or planning the next adventure. Whether you want to share stories over coffee, explore biking routes near the University of Washington, or get hands-on bike knowledge, the environment supports all these activities in one accessible spot.
How does the staff at R+E Cycles enhance the group experience? The team behind R+E Cycles is central to why this place is a magnet for meetups. Each employee is deeply experienced and committed, with many having worked at the shop for years or even decades. This continuity translates into a knowledgeable, friendly, and trustworthy staff that welcomes group visits and encourages dialogue about cycling. When your friends arrive, they won’t just meet salespeople—they’ll meet skilled bike builders and repair experts who participate actively in the cycling community and love sharing their passion. The shop’s full-service nature means any question about fit, style, maintenance, or ride type can be answered on the spot, and the staff often enjoy crafting personalized solutions to meet unique rider needs. Groups interested in tandem bikes, for example, will appreciate the staff’s expertise since Rodriguez specializes in a variety of tandem models, some custom-built and convertible. This expertise supports your group’s ability to try, compare, and select bikes that encourage shared adventures.
What opportunities for exploration and group fun does R+E Cycles offer outside the shop? After getting fitted or picking up a new ride, your group has immediate access to some of Seattle’s best urban and nature cycling routes. Being near the University of Washington and Seattle’s diverse cycling terrain means you can take your new or serviced bikes on an exploratory ride together—perhaps sampling the Burke-Gilman Trail or cruising around nearby neighborhoods. R+E Cycles also organizes or supports group rides and events that encourage cycling enthusiasts to connect beyond the store walls, offering your meetup the chance to engage with a wider community. For groups interested in bike touring or adventure cycling, Rodriguez’s lineup includes highly regarded touring bikes like the Rainier and the Adventure series, allowing your friends to plan extended excursions enthusiastically. Plus, the shop’s focus on durable, high-performance parts means your group rides can be safe, comfortable, and customized to the terrain you want to tackle. This makes R+E Cycles not just a one-time stop but a launching pad for countless shared bike adventures.
How does R+E Cycles combine tradition with innovation to create a unique gathering place? Founded in 1973, Rodriguez Bicycle Company has decades of experience creating handcrafted bicycles and pioneering fitting technology. This tradition of craftsmanship, combined with their modern innovations like the Next-fit™ software and custom bike plans, means that every customer and group that comes through their doors receives a blend of thoughtful engineering and cutting-edge technology. The shop’s commitment to manufacturing parts onsite and maintaining a hands-on approach to service cultivates a knowledgeable environment where groups can learn, experiment, and find exactly the type of bike that fits their needs. Whether your group is interested in the challenge of cyclocross, the efficiency of fixed gear models, or the camaraderie of tandem biking, R+E Cycles meets these desires with deep well of expertise and custom solutions. This fusion of heritage and innovation creates a unique experience that makes get-togethers here both educational and memorable.
What amenities and services support a seamless and enjoyable group visit? R+E Cycles is designed to accommodate different group sizes with professional fittings and attentive service that minimize wait times and maximize satisfaction. Their skilled mechanics offer bike repair and maintenance on-site, meaning groups can bring their current bikes for tune-ups and emergency fixes while exploring new options available at the shop. The store layout encourages browsing and conversation, and the staff’s commitment to customer relationships means your group receives personalized attention tailored to your cycling goals and abilities. After a fitting, your friends can test ride custom-built tandems or mountain bikes to find the perfect match, then sit down with staff to discuss maintenance tips or upcoming cycling events. Being located in a lively neighborhood with many other attractions makes it easy to extend your meetup beyond the shop itself for meals or refreshments, lending convenience and flexibility to your group day out.
Why trust R+E Cycles for your group meetup over other bike shops? The distinct advantage of R+E Cycles lies in its holistic approach—combining bike manufacture, fitting, sales, and service all in one dedicated space staffed by passionate, experienced professionals. Most bike shops specialize in sales or repairs; R+E Cycles unites multiple disciplines under one roof, fostering trust and long-term relationships. Buyers benefit from knowing that their bikes are built and serviced by the same team they met at the shop, reinforcing a sense of community and reliability. Furthermore, the personalized service, custom bike options, and tandem specialties set this shop apart, catering to groups wanting to explore biking together fully. The long-standing reputation of Rodriguez Bicycles, combined with a near-perfect customer rating, gives your group confidence that this is a meeting place where quality, expertise, and shared enjoyment are top priorities.
How can a visit to R+E Cycles enhance your friendship or family meetup experience? Cycling is often about shared experiences and adventure, and R+E Cycles is the ideal backdrop to deepen those bonds. From discovering the perfect bike together and learning as a group about maintenance or riding techniques, to organizing subsequent rides using bikes built or serviced at the shop, the experience fosters teamwork and mutual support. Tandem bikes, in particular, provide a literal way to ride side-by-side, creating memorable adventures that strengthen relationships. The welcoming atmosphere, combined with knowledgeable staff, makes everyone feel included—whether you are beginner or expert riders. A meetup here can energize your group’s dynamic, inspire active lifestyles, and create stories to enjoy long after the visit, making it much more than a typical shopping trip but a true community event.
What is the long-term value of choosing R+E Cycles for group bike needs? The shop’s focus on building relationships through quality products and ongoing service means that groups who rally here can expect support for years to come. With their proprietary fitting technology ensuring bikes fit perfectly, and the on-site manufacturing and repair services providing top-notch care, riders can trust that their investment in a Rodriguez bike is lasting and reliable. The shop’s responsive team offers tune-ups, upgrades, and advice that keep group members riding at their best, making future meetups easy and fun. Because many employees have been with the store for years and are deeply knowledgeable, your group will always have access to expert guidance tailored to evolving needs. By choosing R+E Cycles, your group taps into a cycling community and expert resource that enhances every ride now and into the future.