Join Get Your PHX this month as we check out an atypical bike shop that’s turning heads in downtown Phoenix: The Velo Bike Shop & Café.
Everyday, Phoenix’s core is transforming into a more walkable and rider-friendly city. Sidewalks are widening, trees are being planted and neon green bike lanes are popping up all around. The only thing missing was a community bike shop… until now.
On th
e corner of Garfield and Second Streets sits a gray building surrounded by a wave of metal poles and a metal cyclist statue in the center. If it were not for the hoard of bikes parked out front, you might mistake it for an art gallery – an intentional move by owner Jason Boles who adds, “At the end of the day we’re near Roosevelt Row and we knew art had to be part of the experience.”
Let’s get one thing straight this is not your average bike shop. It’s a gathering space for bicycle enthusiasts, students, downtowners, and really anyone looking for a place to relax and connect with the community. Where you can service your bike, grab a cup of coffee or just hang out with friends.
“Cycling should be a social based event, so a quality cycling store or retail location should also be a hub for the community,” Boles said.
Stepping inside, you’ll be amazed by the incredible revamp Jason made with the space. The shop features sustainably sourced wood counter tops and sleek light fixtures overhead.
Among the array of bicycles and skateboards neatly snaking around the shop, you can expect to find local bike brand State Bicycle Co., which is headquartered in Tempe. Keeping as much local and sustainable was an important part of Jason’s mission.
The expansive space is also home to an espresso bar café with a couple pocket-seating areas. Local beans from Flagstaff fill each cup, and local craft beer fills the fridge. That’s right folks, The Velo is among the few bike shops here in the state licensed to sell beer and bicycles at the same time!
Anyone looking for a group of gung-ho cyclists wanting to “get out of the office” and head down to South Mountain? The Velo has become a hub for such adventures where cyclists of all levels are invited to take part. Check out their Facebook for upcoming bike events.
Walk, ride or drive down to this month’s Get Your PHX local pick: The Velo Bike Shop & Café. Thank you to our host/bike shop owner, Jason Boles, for supplying the wine and music all night long!
As always, RSVP below.
When: Thursday, June 18th, 5:30P – 7:30P
Where: The Velo Bike Shop and Café: 828 N. 2nd St., Phoenix, 85004
Details: Wine will be pouring all night by our great hosts and entry includes a complimentary raffle ticket
RSVP HERE please so we can get an accurate head count.