I went on the South Side History Bike Tour yesterday, and I want to give a shout out to the three ride marshals in their yellow safety vests from Blackstone Bicycle Works. They did a great job and made me feel safe on the ride. I felt we were in good hands. Beforehand they checked everyone's tires and inflated them. On the ride, they kept us all together--not always an easy task. And when I got a flat tire on the ride, they fixed my flat AND showed me how worn out my back tire was, which I hadn't been aware of, and recommended a get a new one a.s.a.p. I was able to rejoin the ride. Thank you, Blackstone! read more

I had a horrible experience. I signed in at the QR code on the door. I waited as there were three people ahead of me being serviced already. A white lady walked in with a child and bike and they began servicing her. I asked a worker how does the QR code sign in work, and how do they decide who is to be serviced next, and told him that I was here before the woman they were now servicing. He couldn't answer any of the questions. Another white lady came in and they began servicing her ahead of me and as telling other people that they are close to closing and they ask me to leave as I protest them servicing these white women ahead of me repeatedly. The manager on duty tells me that I can go somewhere else and pay to have my bike fixed somewhere else if I don't like the service. I continue to protest and he ask me to leave and threatens to call the police. I finally leave after the police are on the phone and he's giving them my description. That Manager is a racist Karen. read more

So kind and open shop was so helpful! They helped me clean my chain and replace my derailleur wire. read more

In my opinion a great organization all around. In addition to the great community outreach and working with young people all the employees are such pros. Beyond this, they stand by their work. Would reccomned to a friend / go there again 15/10. SK read more

I JUST got back from Blackstone Bike Shop and I will definitely be back. I am normally very intimidated by bike shops 'cause let's face it, I know nothing more about bikes than there are two pedals and I use my feet to push 'em, and then it gets me places. I get nervous in heavy traffic, I don't ride with my pant leg rolled up, sometimes, yes, I even bike in flip flops. Amateur. But the staff at Blackstone Bike Shop (pros, and kids alike -- and to be quite honest, the girl that pumped my tires up for me couldn't have been more than 12 years old and she had infinite more bike wisdom than I ever will) were super nice, helpful, and friendly. I wasn't even afraid to ask my stupid n00b questions, like, "So... what do the gears do?" and when told to oil my chain every couple weeks: "... How do I do that?" They never made me feel stupid, they checked my bike over for anything that might need to be fixed for safety reasons, and didn't even make fun of me for bringing in a bike I thought was broken but actually wasn't. The whole thing took no more than 15 minutes and I walked out feeling good about my bike inspection and the new bottle of chain lube I bought, all for a grand total of $11. I'll be back next week for a new brake pad ($4, plus $5 labor) and maybe some bike accessories. Or a helmet. But the most important thing I got was BIKE KNOWLEDGE -- me, Miss Unrolled Flare Leg Jeans and Flip Flops Wobbling in the Middle of the Street. I now know what gears do and how to oil a chain and my dignity is still intact. Priceless. read more

This place truly is as good as it gets! As many other reviewers pointed out, there are a frustratingly small number of bike shops in Woodlawn/Hyde Park-- especially when you consider all the University students in the neighborhood with bikes! When I was deciding where to take my bike to get the brakes repaired, Blackstone Bikes was the obvious choice. The only other bike shop I could have gone to was a stuffy, overpriced one on 55th/Hyde Park, where the cheapest bikes you can buy start at around two hundred bucks! My wallet was trembling at the thought of being taken to that place, fearing they would talk me into services that I just didn't need. Because my brakes weren't working, I carried my bike about a mile to the store, and when I rounded the corner, the young kids who work at the shop came rushing over to help me. When I got inside, there was a lot of hustle and bustle, but I tried to stay out of the way in a back corner. As I looked around, I saw a diagram about apron colors. I hadn't realized it before, but every kid was running around with a red, green, purple, or black apron. The aprons, much like the belts in martial arts, signified skill level! As a martial artist, I thought this was an awesome touch. At Blackstone Bikes, I only paid $10 to get my brakes repaired, but I wanted to give them so much more-- not only did my bike get fixed, but I loved to see that the kids who work there are gaining skills and priceless experience. I am *SO* happy that I took my bike here, and I know I'll be looking for excuses to bring it back. read more

I normally hate bike shops because the staff is usually arrogant or just plain rude. I know I'm not a vegan Food-not-Bombs Critical Mass hipster who lives in Humboldt Park, but I still enjoy riding my bike, and my bike still needs to be fixed now and then. Today, I brought in my bike, a Trek, along with an old Schwinn bike basket that had been on my grandma's bike, and asked, "Could you attach this basket onto my bike?" The guy explained that they would have to jerry-rig it, and the process would involve a hack-saw (gulp!), but it was definitely possible. And it could be done in about a half-hour's time for $15. The Blackstone Bike Shop is in the back of the Experimental Station, which just started hosting the Woodlawn Farmer's Market today. So I wandered through the market, looked at the Dorchester Community Gardens, and then just went and sat in the bike shop's little outside courtyard area. While I was seated there, I chatted with two of the employees, and watched customers come in and out with various problems and questions. Everyone was laid back and friendly. What I really appreciate about the bike shop is that they have a youth program, where they teach young people in the community how to fix bikes. When I went into the shop, my bike was ready. Everyone appreciated that I had salvaged the bike basket--"way to go...very cool." As I was pedaling away, the guy who had worked on my bike called after me, "It looks great! Come back soon!" I certainly will. read more

This place is seriously amazing. Some jerk stole my bike seat and post and I had been putting off getting it replaced. I figured it would be a pain to find a replacement. I went to Blackstone and was pleasantly surprised to find younger kids learning to repair bikes. They got a replacement post and seat for my bike and I also picked up a helmet. For service and the parts themselves, I paid under 20 bucks. The guy outside also put some oil on my gears which finally fixed the gear change problems I've been having. I would give more than 5 stars if I could. Also, the tall caucasian guy teaching the kids and working that day is ridiculously attractive. 10/10 would break bike to see him again. read more

Good business with a good cause. They're cheap, too. From their website: "Blackstone Bicycle Works' mission is to provide educational and recreational opportunities to local boys and girls (ages 9 and up) in the context of a retail bicycle shop. We also serve the public by offering bicycle repair, sales of bikes, parts and accessories, and bicycle mechanics classes for adults." Their selection of rebuilt bikes isn't huge (anywhere from 4-7 depending on what day you show up) but it's always changing based on what they've got in the shop. I think they can also custom build a bike. They've got parts and frames from the cheapest Huffy to the nicest Trek. The guys are nice, the prices are incredibly reasonable, and it's all for a good cause. Support these guys. read more

I've never been to a better bicycle shop. The combination of quality work, hospitality, and reasonable pricing is difficult to find and when I do find it, I keep to it. I've been here twice and that was enough to sell me. I also think it's great that the bike shop is directly beside a school and includes an after school program for the students. You'd be hard pressed to find such a gem. Go here, definitely. read more

If you're a bike owner in Hyde Park or Woodlawn, this place should absolutely be your first stop. If you're a bike owner in the rest of Chicago, this still might be worth the trip. For one, they do excellent work in a quick but friendly atmosphere. You will not be shamed for your lack of bike knowledge. Nor will you be overcharged. Prices are cheap and the staff/volunteers genuinely seem to want you to be happy with your bike, whether it's riding away on a new one or just figuring out what the heck is up with your gears. They know their stuff and they doll out expertise efficiently. For two, visiting this place will make you feel better about the world. Going on a Saturday afternoon and seeing a dozen kids careening around and working on bicycles - that's a happy place. The afterschool program is a very cool way to give back to the community. They deserve your support for this reason alone - it just so happens that they'll also do a spectacular job taking care of your bike. read more

I have always been a cardio-nut, but I haven't been able to lose much weight over the last year. My friends told me it was because my muscles had gotten used to what I've been doing; one friend suggested bike riding. Ok, great. I don't own a bike. Where do I start? Check Yelp. Voila! I found Blackstone Bicycle Works and I was really impressed with their reviews thus far. I immediately knew which shop I'd be checking out. Long story short, I really loved how the staff voiced their extensive knowledge regarding all things bicycle, which was fantastic for me, especially since I haven't mounted a bicycle since a bad biking accident over 10 years ago. I also appreciated the fact that I could buy a refurbished (yes, gently used but darn near new) bike. I wasn't too thrilled about the idea of spending beaucoup bucks on something I'm partially afraid of, and partially scared I might not thoroughly enjoy. But, I walked out eager to hop on my new bike, and confident in my purchase. Sometimes after making a fairly larger ticket purchase, I end up with buyer remorse. Not this time. My receipt was pretty light, and I feel like I should actually go back in and pay for some of the one-on-one guidance they so freely offered me. Blackstone Bicycle Works is the ONLY place in the city I'll go from now on, for any bicycle needs. ... Now if only they could merge the exercise associated with bicycling with the sheer exhilaration of a Harley. I'd be in heaven. read more

I cannot comment on their refurbished bikes, but when I called these guys 5 minutes before closing on a Saturday needing an emergency flat fix, they did me one better. There was no need to come in, I was told, because their guys would come and meet ME with the new tube for the repair. Wow! Within 10 minutes they'd arrived and changed the tube, all for a very competitive price. I will not hesitate to call these guys for a quick repair in the future. read more

Blackstone Bicycle Works does good work. Their social mission (a part of the larger social mission of Experimental Station) is admirable, and you get a feel-good buzz just stopping by the place. The mechanics are willing and eager to look at your bike, and if they are too busy, they always are ready at the date and time they tell you to return. My largest complaint with BBW is their hours -- I hate soliciting other bike shops in the area (especially DJ's -- that guy is a grump!), but on two separate occasions, I've visited only to find them closed, and was forced to go to another bike shop. Of course, their closure information is on their website, so I take full blame for that frustration. Either way, everyone that works here is a boss. I had a weird bike problem and couldn't find the right bolt/nut combo, so they let me rifle through their bolt/nut drawers until I found the perfect thing! One thing BBW should do is make it easier to donate to them. read more

Low-key, friendly service that is pretty darn quick if you time your visit right. I went in for a wheel true, a new saddle, and a new lock, and was out in 15 minutes. If it'll take longer, they send you to the Experimental Station café next door to wait. (If it's busier or you need a lot done, you'll have to leave your bike for a few days.) They don't have a huge selection of stuff - they only had one kind of women's saddle, for example - and it's generally more utilitarian than high-end. Their youth education program is pretty cool- they've got a lot of aspiring young bike mechanics on site learning the nuts and bolts of the business. read more

Not the best place for service, parts or price but very admirable mission and convenient location. And everything is acceptable in terms of parts and service, though Blackstone is meant more for amateur cyclists in terms of repairs and quality. read more

My first experience was indeed a great. Came in to get two inner tubes installed. Great prices, great customer services, and an overall friendly environment . Definitely will visit again read more

Blackstone Bicycle Works - Great things going on at the place - Bikes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I took a vacation trip Chicago and wanted to be able to bike with my 8 yr old. The L doesn't allow kids to travel with bikes and Divvy (the ride share program) doesn't have kid's bikes. Got a $20.00 bike for son that I took on and off the L an I rode Divvy. Thanks for make our Chicago trip extra special. read more

Paid an awesome visit to this place the other day - and actually didn't purchase anything. My bike was stolen a bit back and a colleague recommended I stop by here to see if they had any used bikes for sale. I showed up and the inside of this place was mad busy - a lot of teens moving to and fro, pushing bikes in and out and working in the little fenced in courtyard-type deal outside. Waited in the line for a little bit - fifth or sixth in line and basically two guys were dealing with the customers while the other employees/students were hard at work. But they got to me, I found out they didn't have any bikes for sale, no problem - I'll definitely be back for small needs that I have for my bike. This is the type of place that makes you appreciate the experience the fun of maintaining your own bike for years on end. As an aside, the inside of this place is sweet and it's worth stopping by just to soak in the ambience - was able to witness some of the mentorship of the students first hand, and the interior is definitely unique. Employees are laid-back and knowledgeable, as well. read more

My old bike was stolen; it was a piece of garbage that they pieced together anyways. So I bought a new unassembled bike online and brought it here for them to assemble it. The truth is that i really want to like this bike shop, I really do, but the experience I've had there was abysmal. There were kind people, but they took too long to do too poor of a job every single time. I appreciate what they are but their service and skill is just not up to a standard I am satisfied with. read more

Knowledgeable, responsive and affordable. Never try to upsell, and maintain a great selection of products.

Very good place where to go for bycicle repair, they really know their stuff and they are a little rusty but helpful. If you know something about bikes you can also just stay there and fix your problem on your own using their tools for free. If you want to buy a second hand bike you can find pretty good things, but the prices are not the cheapest. I bought a very nice radley city-bike for roughly $100 and was completely satisfied with it, but of course it was second hand and so there were a few things that weren't perfect read more

Absolutely fantastic. Good prices (not internet-low, but definitely average or below compared to most places in town) Staff is friendly, not pushy, not arrogant, eager to help. They clearly take pride in their work and don't have a time-clock mentality. They are not overloaded with work during the day and you don't have to beg for someone to help you out. I had to get a spoke replaced and the wheel retrued, and the guy was like "I did my best man, but I couldn't get it quite true, so I gave you a few dollars off" (in that case, it was $15 total -- amazing.) Getting a flat repaired is $19.41 ($15 labor, $4.41 for the tube.) It is just really unusual for that kind of work on bicycles these days -- most stores just sell high end bikes to yuppies and could care less about a $15 job. (I don't want to get them in trouble if they have to raise prices, so I'll remind you that you should always be clear up front about charges when you bring a bicycle in for repair *anywhere*.) A few used bikes for sale; higher than craigslist but I imagine given a solid tune-up and checked over so actually a better deal (e.g., $130+tax for a nice old 18 speed.) A grab bag of used parts as well (e.g., a kooky old Brooks saddle.) Part of a cool non-profit that does a bunch of things in the neighborhood including after-school/vocational training for kids. I was skeptical because I thought that would mean the quality of the work would be low, but actually it is very good. Given all of that I would say, given the comparable stores, that this place should be the Hyde Parker's destination for bike repair. Tati Cycles is supercool as well, but I never have actually been because the hours are so weird and he even says "I probably won't have time to fix your bike." A nice cafe with wifi to sit in and read and be a hipster next door while they work on your bike. Maybe this is how they get us to write nice reviews on Yelp. read more

Stopped there yesterday. I really admire their mission. There were quite a few people there. I looked at their selection of used bike. Maybe they had 25 bikes for sale. I thought the prices were really high. Maybe it's because of what they are doing for the community. I can buy a much nice bike brand new at a retail store. I wanted to support them but I just couldn't afford to. read more

I've bought three bikes here over the years. No complaints about the bikes, two of which I've been able to flip for a profit. During my latest visit I found the organization and efficiency have declined. Bikes that are for sell, being repaired or the personal property of staff are all stored together. They opened 30 minutes late, no posted prices on the bikes (which is good I guess, leaves room for negotiation). Lots of staff sitting around cursing, which I wouldn't mind if I didn't have to sit around waiting for my bike for 30 minutes. Operations aren't as tight as they were a year or two ago. I understand it's a youth program, the just gotta step it up. I enjoyed sitting around talking to the old brothers in the lot tho, added bonus. read more

Fairly unprofessional operation. Don't expect to be greeted when you walk in, even if there are lots of people standing around. (Although once I was greeted by an incomprehensible toothless man!) It's difficult for the customer to tell who works there or what's for sale. I spent a lot of time aimlessly wandering around, still not being greeted or helped. Most of their bikes for sale are upstairs in a separate part of the building--with no signs to help you figure this out. Finally I found some teenage staff and arranged for a test ride. (The staff kindly opened doors for me and offered to carry the bike downstairs, so customer service points there.) Turned out the bike I was test-riding had almost no functioning brakes. Guys, that's a great thing to fix BEFORE you ask me to buy the bike. Pros: low prices for bikes and maintenance. $16 for a flat change, $65 for complete tune-up. The space with bikes for sale is quite beautiful. Good location, just a few blocks from campus. This place could be great! My advice for whoever runs it is 1) advertise more. You should be getting all the student business! and 2) think about how to improve the customer experience. Make sure the bikes you are selling are in basic working order. And you'll get more repeat customers if they don't have to wade through confusion and chaos. read more

After having my front bike tire stolen off my old mountain bike, I was expecting to spend a lot of money and be in for a hassle in having it replaced. I hadn't visited Blackstone Bicycle Works before, but in hindsight, I sure wish I had been bringing my bike into this place throughout the year. The two guys running the place and providing mentorship to the young kids are incredibly helpful, friendly, and down to earth. Aaron (I believe that was his name...) went out of his way to make sure that the front brakes worked correctly after the tire was replaced. The fact that this shop is providing training skills to kids and teenagers from the community warrants your business in and of itself. Given that I know next to nothing about bikes, it is awesome to see such young kids with such valuable skills. I certainly be returning to Blackstone for all my bike needs. read more

I had a really good experience with them last weekend. I kept saying that this would be my year for a new bike and promised myself to visit Blackstone during the farmers market. I found a great little cruiser and because of the great service (and proximity of 1 block to my home) my husband decided to bring in his bike. Then he decided to bring in my old bike (too big, men's, no me gusta). They were super busy and there was a sense of controlled chaos that seems to work for them. Besides, you can't beat the smile on the kid's faces. They are great kids and neighbors and this program has such a positive impact on them and our neighborhood. Keep up the good work!! read more

You need one more star for Blackstone. A solid 6. Stop being part of the problem and start being part of the solution. The Stone is a community service program for at-risk Woodlawn kids and a bike store all in one. Shop there, visit there,volunteer there and donate an old bike there. They sell recycled bikes. And you don't need to spend a fortune, really you don't. Get a solid used bike for the city, and consider yourself wise indeed! read more

The lack of bike shops on the South Side sucks big time, but fortunately this place not only fulfills a void but also provides unique service. For one thing, these guy's aren't bike snobs like you may find at many shops in hipper parts of town. You can tell they're used to dealing with all kinds of people from kids, to novices to experts. I'm an intermediate DIY kinda guy and I can just come right in, say what I need and be done, but I've observed them help out customers who don't know much with grace. Also, their rates for repairs and services will be probably the best in town. The reason why I became a DIYer is because I've been to several shops that try to sell you all kinds of unnecessary things and charge an arm and a leg for simple stuff, but Blackstone doesn't do that. I understand that shops do this because they have to stay afloat but thats another reason why Blackstone is so great because they're non-profit. Another thing is that these guys have one of the best selections of used bike parts. Only, thing I've found comparable is Uptown but I've seen even rarer stuff at Blackstone than them, probably because of the location being not as bike hip, which is a plus when shopping. So no matter where you are in the city, if you're looking for used/rare bike parts, I suggest checking this place out. For example, I found an ORIGINAL Schwinn 21.1mm threaded ALLOY stem here, only costed $5, its godlike. I don't even think they knew how rare it was. You won't even find that on Ebay. Lastly, these guys not just provide retail service, but they help out the community and promote great business practices that can help save the world. :P read more

Great project, great people: here kids learn to work, to repair bikes, to be at the register... Only 4 stars because you cannot expect that the repair always is well done at the first trial. But it is a project that is worth supporting! read more

Still love Blackstone and their mission. They just tuned up my bike. You have to be slightly patient as the teens navigate their processes but they'll keep working until the end result is solid. In this case the the alignment of the wheel was slightly off when they returned the bike but they fixed it and were friendly throughout the process read more

I went to Blackstone today and the experience was phenomenal. The young people working there are knowledgeable, helpful and passionate. They know their bikes, have taken care to repair/refurbish them and you can feel their sense of ownership and pride in their work. They directed me to the right bike, and gave me a great deal on a Trek 6500 (thanks, Chris). I just rode the bike for the first time this evening, and while it's early, I'm very pleased with this machine. I got a great bike, and helped out a tremendous community based organization. Definitely visit their shop. 5 stars, but only because I could not give 'em six. Keep up the great work guys (I wish I wrote down your names...you know who you are)! read more

The important thing about Blackstone Bikes is their mission to train and mentor young people. They give kids an opportunity to earn their own bike after working a certain number of hours in the shop, they are doing something that I really wish more places had the capacity to do. Many of the comments here seem to be from people who think that customer service is and should be the primary mission of this Shop. I think they are operating on a different model and when you go there I think it's a great experience if you get with their program instead of expecting to be served as one would in a regular business. This business is service oriented, but it is serving a community - not U of C consumers. When you take your bike to Blackstone, you get to participate in this bigger mission. For me that has been well worth the chaos the extra time, the occasional interruptions by enthusiastic kids, and sometimes having to return on another day. If I have en emergency I go to a regular shop. Also, when I went to get my bike fixed they said they were in need of volunteers. So- to some of the people who came in to get served and are unsatisfied: Perhaps consider that you may have something to offer in that regard-- to make the place operate in a way that is more comfortable for the academic set and excellent training for the kids. Something to think about... read more

I feel like this is what a small, hole-in-the-wall, community-focused bike shop should be like. If you're in Hyde Park and need tubes, basic components or need to borrow a floor pump, then look no further. If you're looking for boutique bikes, boutique parts, boutique clothes or a bicycle superstore then you'll need to look elsewhere. But it's nice to support these friendly folks when you can since they are actually doing something very worthwhile with their youth bicycle education project. read more

I would recommend this shop to anyone. They are providing a great service to the community with affordable prices. Keep up the good work guys. I will definitely be returning for all my bicycle maintenance and repairs. read more

Definitely buy your bike here. I just bought a bike there and my experience shopping there was great. The staff were friendly and helpful. The seat on the bike I wanted was too high, so the guy who works on bikes there got out a shorter post to lower the saddle to a mountable height for me. He dropped what he was doing and did this in about 30 seconds. The selection was pretty good when I went. They had some fairly schwanky cruisers there, and about 5 road bikes of varying sizes. The bikes were low priced. My nice used road bike from them was only $105 and I can't find anything wrong with it (that screams good deal, for those of you not too familiar with pricing). Their youth program is PHENOMENAL as well. The kids work there to earn hours towards buying a bike or goods in the store. It's basically giving kids a good place to go to learn skills and a sense of purpose. The kids were also really interested in what bike I was going to get, which I thought was cute. Support this organization! read more

this place rocks for used bikes. they really know their shit. I got a great road 10 speed bike and it is my baby. i went to them for several repairs as well and was satisfied with the service every time. plus their mission is awesome, working with the kiddies and such. if you live in hyde park, definitely pay them your patronage. read more

Friendly folks sold me a cool used Dutch cruiser for a good price at their Sunday farmers' market bike sale. Helmets are cheap ($15), locks are expensive ($45). Also, check the Backstory cafe next door. read more

Took my bike and trailer in and Aaron replaced the bottom bracket, chain and back tooth wheel thingee, along with adjusting the brakes, gears and truing up the rims. Ended up having to replace the front rim. All said and done it was at a very reasonable price and will keep my bike happy and healthy for my daily commute. The shop can be a bit hectic with all the kids running around, but its great to see them learning and focusing their energies somewhere positive. Good stuff. read more