Bikes shops are tricky and working there is never easy given how complex and persnickety customers can be. I should know -- I am not easy to please. But this place is special. The people here treat you with dignity. I observed the workers there show some real down home hospitality to a man who was practically impossible. While they weren't able to help me with my request they certainly impressed me with the humanity they showed. Hats off to you! read more

One of the best bike shops in the city! Very customer driven and super friendly team. Prices are affordable. I also love a team that does its best to educate the consumer about the maintenance performed. This ensures that I'm well-versed on what they just did on my bike and keeps me in the loop. We can't thank them enough for all their help this summer. XO, The Brooks Family (Samantha, Alan, Edgar) read more

Best bike shop. Hands down. The owner is a great guy I've know for years. Nothing like a good local business and this one the best.

I have been coming to Uptown Bikes for years, but only recently signed on to Yelp, so my review is long overdue. This place is quality through and through. Yeah, they're smaller than some other shops. Maybe they don't have the widest selection of merchandise, but they've chosen what they carry for a reason. Every person there knows their job (some summer staff may be in training, and still learning, in which case they've come to the right place just as you have). They explain what is wrong, what can be done, and the pros and cons of any options. I have a couple of bikes - and they flat out told me I shouldn't put more repairs into one, it wasn't a strong enough bike for my weight and the amount I rode, no matter how it may have fit me in terms of comfort. And I believe them - after all, they were going to be the people making the money off the repairs. They have taken great care of the workhorse bikes that I have had and even chased down parts on a 40 y.o. bike when I was hit by a car. I have gone to other bike shops (every neighborhood should have one or two, and I've lived in three different neighborhoods since I first came to Uptown Bikes). Nearly every other shop has tried to upsell me on accessories, or get me to buy a new bike (really? get rid of a Schwinn that was made in Chicago? for a mountain bike? to ride on the streets of a flat town? I just need a new tube!) If you brought a bike in for a specific issue, Uptown Bikes will tell you when something has to be fixed for safety, what could be done, and what might be nice. I also really appreciate that their receipts state what was fixed - not just a price paid. And you know why? B/c they give warranties. Yes, that's right, they take pride in their work and want you to be satisfied with it too. Only once have I had to take advantage of that warranty, and that was fixed by a person in training. Some people have said they cost more than other places - do those other places give itemized receipts and warranty their work? I'm guessing no. Uptown Bikes gives value for price, no guessing about it. And, they're personable. The third time I walked in, they greeted me by name. This is the bike shop to go to when you have a choice, no doubt about it. Thank you Maria, Nora, Pete and John. You're good, and good people. read more

The best! No bs, no egos, no nonsense. They were great. The dude who fixed my bike took it to the back and ten minutes later I had it back good as new. It was a bit pricey but I don't think it could have been cheaper. All in all, awesome! read more

The staff is friendly. I was very satisfied with the service and price. I use my sixteen year old bike to commute 7 miles each way to work. One of my shifters snapped off on the way home from work and I stopped by Uptown Bikes. Due to the age and manufacture of my bike I knew I would not be able to get a new part that would be compatible. My only hope for salavaging the bike was a used part. Uptown Bikes came through. I could not believe they had the perfect used shifter. It works great and the price was fair. If I had taken this to some of the other bike shops I have been to, they would have told me I would have need to replace more parts than I wanted to (due to the compatibility issue I mentioned earlier) with new parts and I have no doubt that that would have cost me more than this bike was worth. read more

Love it. For the avid cyclist, a good relationship with your LBS (local bike shop) is essential. I bought my main ride (commuter, errands, leisure, etc...) here. I actually didn't live in Uptown at the time, but I moved to the neighborhood shortly thereafter. After moving away, I still bring my bike here whenever I need anything done. The staff was very helpful to get me the bike I wanted in the right size for me, not just to make a sale. Whenever I bring my bike in for service they go over everything that needs to be done in great detail and explain anything I have questions about. They always give me an estimate that has never failed to be spot-on, and if they do have to replace something else or go above and beyond the estimate they gave me, they always call me to discuss it first. Some other less reputable bike shops will just do whatever expensive repairs they decide you 'need' and stick you with the bill. I guess technically an estimate is just that - estimated - but Uptown Bikes sticks to it. The only downside is that their new bikes selection has dwindled somewhat, but I realize they're catering to the needs of the community they serve, and they carry what sells. They actually told me that they stopped carrying newer years of the model of bike I bought from them (although they still carry other models by the same manufacturer) because the maker started using a bunch of anodized parts, increasing the price tag by more than 150%. So they said in good conscience they couldn't continue to sell it. I may not necessarily agree with their decision, but I can definitely respect it. read more

I took my 1967 Schwinn to Uptown Bikes 5 years ago to get it back in shape to ride. For about $200 in 2005, they got it rollin. New seat, new handle bars, new break lines - the works. I loved their customer service then and I'm more in love with it now. I took the bike in again this summer - ready to try bike commuting. I needed a full check-up, got a new saddle and made a few adjustments. John D, in particular, is my guy there. He has been so friendly, knowledgable and just awesome every time I've been in. I went in today after my pedal fell off (as 40 year old pedals will do) and was out the door within an hour with new pedals, a good lock and adjusted handle bars. The whole team there is spectacular. Great customer service from people who want you to love your bike and love your bike shop. They are so welcoming into the world of Chicago Cycling. read more

I was pleased with their service. I bought a bike here at the beginning of the summer. There was no pressure to buy an overly expensive bike, and I walked away with a bike that fit my needs. After 6 months, I had some mechanical issues with my rear wheel. They did a warranty repair quickly. I brought the bike in on a Friday. They got 2 new wheels delivered and installed on Tuesday after Labor Day. I was happy with the service and look forward to adding more miles to my bike. read more

Dear Uptown Bikes, I love you! I have never been to a bike shop that was so friendly demystifying. They listened to what I needed and responded honestly, and they went the extra mile on my repair (not to mention it was done quickly). I learned a lot from talking to the workers and appreciated that they were willing to educate me rather than up sell me. Hands down the most positive experience I've had in a bike shop on the north side! read more

Great people, service is bar none, I really have nothing but great things to say about this place. They've fixed a wheel and a broken spoke on my girlfriend's cruiser at a fair price, and they have helped me rebuild a bike with the parts of my choosing. Nora was my mechanic and worked closely with me to ensure I was satisfied with the work being done, worth every single penny if you ask me. I'm also impressed that they had some really nice used bike parts for sale, pair of Zipp Service Course handlebars for $35? Don't mind if I do. I really can't stress enough how friendly and knowledgeable everyone is; if I'm not careful I find myself just wanting to hang out and soak up all the knowledge that this place has to offer. Salt of the earth kind of people that you can trust. read more

This shop makes me feel good! Kind and conscientious people who work here, always willing to take extra time to explain things, show you tips and tricks, and answer questions. Their prices are fair and the work is good. Woman and POC owned and that's what up! read more

Super helpful! Helped me get/mount a new lock for my bike. They were all super knowledgeable and eager to help. Definitely going to be my go to shop for all my needs. read more

The staff at Uptown bikes was welcoming and helpful. They stayed with us until after closing with no complaint. Their prices are as low as any sustainable business can reasonably make them. Unlike many bike shops and auto garages, Uptown bikes is very woman-friendly. In fact, most of the people in the store were women when I went. They got my recently resurrected bike going for almost no charge, and did not try to sell me any unnecessary services. I will definitely go back! read more

Having just moved to Chi, I had to store my bike outside this winter and wanted to get a general tune up, a new seat/post, and some fenders for my daily commute downtown. I never learned much beyond basic maintenance, so I fully admit to knowing nothing in a bike shop and wanted a hand in figuring out what needed to be done. I first went to Kosy in Lakeview. Their sales people referred me to the mechanics. The grumpy mechanics referred me to the sales people. After 45 minutes, someone finally acknowledged my need for help but was less than helpful in answering my questions. He just told me to"just go pick what I wanted," and my bike "needed a lot of work and it was going to take a long time to get it back to me." It's a busy time of year for them, certainly, but this was utterly ridiculous. I walked my busted bike up to Uptown Bikes, where Maria immediately put my bike on an assessment stand and talked me through all things fender while waiting for the John the assessment guy. He was back in 5 minutes, and in another 5 told me the tuneup "recommendation" wasn't as dire as Kosy implied: just some minor tweaks and a new tire - and they'd have it fixed up in a few days. For half the price of what Kozy quoted. Skip Kozy. Go to Uptown Bikes. John and Maria are super friendly, and gave me some great advice on parts for distance commuters. read more

Excellent, friendly, helpful staff. Not at all the cliquey dismissive types that often plague bicycle shops. I needed to get a new tube and tire for my road bike and the staff member helping me brought out four possible tires and explained the benefits of each. She answered all my questions pleasantly and patiently. read more

Love, love, love Uptown Bikes. They have done fantastic work on my bikes and didn't make me feel dumb when I had to ask them for a bit of a tutorial on how to use the gear shifts properly (my bike is probably a little fancier than I needed when I bought but I love it). Anyway the staff is always super helpful, seems very knowledgeable, and they aren't pushy like some places can be - and it's a bonus for me that they are not far away so I can pop over when needed. But if i have a question or repair need, this will be the first place I go. They are awesome. read more

I just cannot say enough good things about this bike shop!... from Maria the owner, to all of the staff... they are professional, knowledgeable and kind. I ride my bike pretty much year round, as it is my means of transportation and they honor and respect that. I went in Sat. with a wheel that had come off my bike, so initially they thought it was just a cracked axel, but it turned out to be a craked frame! the bike is still under waranty but they told me they would help me out if I did not get help from the shop I purchased it from. I have been coming here for about 10 years and they are always quick, courteous and helpful. Thanks Uptown Bike peeps, YOU ARE AMAZING!!! read more

Brought in my vintage Raleigh to get the gear shifter replaced, and they offered to also fix my seat which had the wrong clamp on it, AND found the original seat post bolt for me, all for a very reasonable price. This is my bike place from now on. No other bike shop tops the service and quality of Uptown Bikes. read more

Broadway Bikes - www.ginettcolon.com - Bikes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I had gone in for a tune up and was very impressed! They were so friendly and did an amazing job with my bike. Their prices are extremely reasonable and they have great communication regarding the work your bike needs. Uptown bikes is definitely the best place to take your bike in Chicago! read more

Fast and friendly! Brought my bike in for a tune-up today and was told it would be ready tomorrow and here I am picking it up already! Thanks! read more

I love Uptown Bikes! You can't beat their prices or selection. I needed a random rear lamp for my non-scwinn bike rear wheel (connected to an old fashioned generator -- hard to find) and they actually had one and sold it to me for $10 and put it on right then and there. I'll always go back here for bicycle needs! read more

So I'd been riding around on an 80's model Peugeot cruiser, which is a sweet bike, but it's heavy as all get out and slow... just not what I want anymore. I wanted something a little faster, definitely lighter. So it was time for a new bike. Enter Uptown Bikes. I live close. They're a local business. I figured I would rather drop a little extra and develop a relationship with Uptown Bikes rather than do a big box store purchase. What I really like about Uptown Bikes is that everyone is SUPER friendly. They didn't judge me (yes, I wanted a damn basket on my bike and yes, I need sturdy tires because I'm fat) and answered all of my questions very patiently and thoroughly. Hannah was a champ. Very honest and very sweet. I took a few bikes for a test ride and ended up liking a hybrid that's much lighter and easier to handle than my old bike. I rode it home after about an hour that the shop needed to put on a kickstand, install the basket, etc. Did I spend a bit? Yeah. Whatever. I love riding and I'm so thrilled with my new purchase. read more

bought a sweet ass yellow bike off of craigslist. problem is, it won't peddle. so after i found out this terrible news, i wheeled the sweet ride to the bike doctor...the doctor being uptown bikes. so, they took my bike and are going to give me a diagnoses today. they were super friendly and helpful, considering i showed up 5 minutes before they closed. i'll update after i hear how much the repairs will cost! read more

When I moved to Chicago I was bike-less, having given away or sold most of my stuff before moving to town. A year later, I still hadn't figured out what to buy, so my roommate gave me his bike, since it had been sadly languishing in his damp, cold basement for years, unloved. Uptown bikes was the closest bike shop, so I figured I'd give them a try, and see how they treated me and my new-to-me bike. I have been so consistently pleased with the service, the staff and the prices, I've never had qualms about going back. The only issue I've ever had, is that they're closed on the one day a week that I never have meetings. Darn them! Don't they know the world should revolve around me? Some of the service I've received there: * A check-up/overhaul of my new-to-me bike when I first got it. Replacing rusty chains, and making this bike that had languished unused for so long, into a safe riding machine for me. Under $150 for all parts and labor. I took my bike in to them in early Spring, so it took about a week to get it back. Next time I'll make sure to visit in winter for major maintenance, as they'll be less busy. * The check-up was the first and only time i was "upsold" anything. When I asked for advice on safely locking up my bike (having rarely ever locked up my bike in my last town), they not only demonstrated the best way to protect my bike and it's easily removed components, they also pointed out that a quick $10 investment would give me a better/safer cable lock to supplement my u-lock. I gladly took that advice. * When I was feeling like the seat that came with the bike wasn't quite right for me, I stopped in a few times to check out what they had on hand. I ended up with the first seat they recommended for me, and they took the time during one of my none purchase visits to make sure the seat shaft was more easily adjustable by me (having carpal tunnel can make it impossible to work things that stick a bit). $30 investment for a happy tush. * I stopped in another time for a tire that seemed to be going flat. It was a broken strap that was quickly and cheaply fixed (though I don't recall exactly how much). A couple hours later, my tire was flat again, so back I went. Turns out the tube also needed replacing, and they had missed it the first time (a small hole or something). As an apology for missing the hole while replacing the strap, there was no charge for replacing the tube. A minor mistake, one of those things that happens when the shop is busy, and they offered the courtesy tube replacement without me even asking. * After many months of happy riding, I suddenly faced a horrible noise and a quick run into Uptown Bikes to find out what was going with my baby. Turns out my headset had gone bad? Some thing in the handlebar thingy was rusted, probably from sitting in that damp basement for so long? That took a couple hours for them to get fixed for me, and the guy who did the work made a point to show me the old parts and explain what went wrong. That was a $70 fix, but well worth it. * I went back recently because I had gone from occasional riding to 10-15 miles a day, and half-centuries on the weekend. And my back brakes felt a little 'loose' compared to my old bike. Nora took the better part of a half hour to look over my bike, including riding it around to test out the brakes. My brakes were fine, it was just one of those "each bike is slightly different" things. And Nora pointed out that my back wheel needed to be trued, so I should put that on my future to-do list. No charge for all that time and attention. * Today I decided since I was going to vote (early and often!), I'd drop my bike off for wheel true-ing on my way. Not only did they remember me, what my bike needed, but also that I've been apartment hunting lately. I dropped off my bike, ran a couple errands, and it was good to go by the time I walked back. A quick $20. * And since I'm sadly moving all the way up to Rogers Park in a week, I asked for a recommendation of a bike shop closer to my new home. And they were more than happy to provide a recommendation of a place where I would get trustworthy service. I can't remember the names of everyone in there (I suck with names). But I have never had a bad experience with anyone. I've never felt mocked because I'm not hugely bike knowledgeable. They've even recommended me learning how to do somethings myself to save money. The most "negative" thing I've ever heard them say is to recommend to another customer that they not spend too much money on a Walmart-level bike, as it wouldn't be a good investment. I'll miss having them so close by after I move. read more

I started going to Uptown because it's woman-owned, and considering I've been to every other bike shop within two miles of my house and have only seen a woman working at one of them, that's important to me. It's not where I do all my bike-business, but it is where I buy my parts. They're friendly, they're helpful, and they've never tried to get me to buy something more expensive or fancier than I needed. In fact, there have been times when I've been about to buy something and they've talked me into an equally good product that's better for my needs and cheaper - I was looking to buy a new saddle, and went straight for the faux-leather one. One of the lovely gals that works there came over and got me to buy one that was cheaper but fit me and my bike better. I was also really impressed when I ducked in there for the first time, to buy a basket, then came back well over a month later and found that 3 of the people there remembered me. Sure, they remembered me by my bike, but that's still damn impressive, no? My only complaint is that it's really busy, so I've found that repairs take a little bit longer. But I'm not taking off any stars or anything, because I don't think them being busy is really such a bad thing. read more

The women in this shop are amazing! My bike was making an unusual sound, and other bike shops just made me think I was crazy or that there was no solution. Leah at Uptown Bikes actually listened to my description of the issue, and seemed genuinely excited to confirmed her suspicion and find the source of the noise. These ladies know their stuff. Not only did they tune up my bike and solve the noise, but they explained the issue and solution simply enough without being condescending. Great service and a great price, I will definitely be back for future check-ups on my Bikey. read more

When it comes to selling you parts or service they are happy to assist. However when you roll in on your way home because a crank arm is loose and you'd like some assistance to get home, they become a logical and policy nightmare. I was told "our head mechanic would have to make that call, you can leave it over night" so when I said that I would not leave it, but could I borrow his wrench to tighten it myself I was met with "it's against policy to use our tools", give me a break. About the most helpful they were was to tell me that Ace hardware across the street was closed on Sunday and I wouldn't be able to go buy my own 15mm Allen wrench. Thanks jokers. read more

I've been meaning to write this review for a while. I've had a wide variety of work done on my bike at Uptown (tune up, flat repair, new tires, chain inspection, replaced the bearings in my steering column), and I've been consistently impressed by their expertise and integrity. Just a few reasons why I like this place: * Friendly and knowledgeable: They've been willing to explain every step of their repairs to me, and answer all of my questions--even the really dumb ones. I don't just leave Uptown with a fixed bike, but with a better understand of how my bike works. * No sales pressure: They could have easily pushed a new steering column on me when my bearings broke down; I even asked if I should just buy a new one. But they did a tricky repair instead, for a fraction of what a new column would have cost. * Personal: They remember me, they remember my bike. It's like the bike maintenance equivalence of Cheers. read more

*** Update 4/21. My bike was returned 5 days ahead of schedule, clean and running great. Staff was again, very helpful and polite. Just 1 tune up, 1 new tube and 2 new gear shifters and about $150 later, I'm biking to work and don't have to mess around with the CTA until snow. Thanks UB*** So, I'm pretty much a bicycle virgin. For my 8th grade graduation, my parents bought me what was, at the time, a really nice bike. Now its 15 years old, with probably about 30 miles on it, gathering dust in my laundry room with a flat tire and a sticky gear-changer. I stopped in here on Sun, and waited patiently in line for a mechanic's attention. Obviously, I wasn't the only person who thought going to the bike shop on the 1st nice Sunday afternoon of the year was a good idea. Duh. I should have been here a week ago. The guy who briefly assessed my needs upon arrival (and then directed me to Aaron) was very friendly and accommodating. Aaron, the mechanic, looked at my neglected, aging cycle. Solemnly studied it, spun the wheels, messed with the gears and stuff. For all I know about bikes, he may have been a total quack, but he was polite looked like a professional. He decides it needs a new gear shifter and a tune up. I didn't even know bikes -got- tuneups. Double Duh. We talked for a while about if it was worth salvaging (its really not in that bad of shape, but tune-ups are like $80. You can get a new bike someplaces for like $200... but was this a bike worth investing in? Basically, we decided that there is very little wrong with it and once its cleaned up, it will probably be as good or better than most inexpensive new bikes out there... plus I would be spending $80 next year for a tuneup anyhow if I ride it as much as I plan to). We also talked about if my lock was adequate. I asked him about putting a rack-thing (I'm sure that is its proper name 'rack-thing') on the back and he explained that its just 4 screws, but the labor is $15 and I could possibly do it myself if I was somewhat handy and had a screwdriver... Just answered all my questions and was really straightforward, polite and patient. Bad news is, they are backed up for 2+ weeks. My bike will return, clean, shiny and new-like on the 25th. Yesterday was the 6th. I guess its been hibernating for the better part of 15 years, 2 more weeks won't kill me, but that -would- be a long time if I was reliant on my bike. So far, 5 stars for professionalism, politeness and not being jerks about the fact that I'm a bike moron. Lose .5 stars for holding my bike hostage for 19 days (I take responsibility for .5 star because I procrastinated about it for so long). I'll update my review upon return of said new-like bike. read more

Place is ok, I wouldn't pass it up in an emergency or a repair but I don't plan on shopping there. First, you're assaulted with their political and "cars are evil" ideology the second you walk through the door, I know most hardcore cyclists have a tendency to lean left but the propaganda on the walls is a put off. Second, they aren't stocked very well, sure they can order stuff but the selection on hand is pretty limited. Not a horrible place, but there's better out there. read more

I cant agree with everyone. I stopped in here to pick up some lube bc of a tight link in my chain. I was assisted by a short asian girl, when I pointed to my chain my hand grazed the rotor of my brakes and she yelled "dont touch that". I just smiled and didn't bother telling her I've reassembled them myself or ask her why she thinks you cant touch them, it would have been amusing to listen to her make up some BS answer. Its not much of an experience and may not be a reflection of their service, but it ticked me off, i wont bother going back. read more

I LOVE Uptown Bikes! I have been coming here for regular service on my old rusty bike for 8 years! I was there last Friday with a major break down. They actually gave me a loaner until my bike was fixed AND I was able to make it to Cricital Mass! Thanks Uptown Bikes! You rock and roll! read more

I have seen plenty of bicycle shops in the city, and the one thing that stood out was how pretentious and disrespectful they were to the everyday bicyclist. Uptown Bikes, however, was nothing like those overpriced, hipster elites. These are people who love bicycles, and they are more than willing to help you find what you need. Combine that customer service with a dose of reasonable prices for good bicycles, and you have a recipe for success. read more

I had called around to a few places in the area as I needed to get a simple tune up on my bike; most of the other shops said I couldn't get my bike back for a couple weeks and were all very expensive. I spoke to John on the phone at Uptown, explained my situation and brought my Electra Straight 8 down to the shop. He said they could do a cleanup and simple tune up on the bike, the cost was about one-third of anywhere else, they were very honest, good people and had my bike back to me the NEXT day. Definitely check them out!!!!! read more

So I bought a bike and Pete was there to help again. It was great service again. After I chose my KHS Brentwood in light sky blue, Pete went through every part of the bike (some things were over my head) and explained the mechanics and purpose of the different gears, etc. We then went through security and I went with a u lock and a cable to secure the bike. He suggested that in the future I might want to get a basket or other accessories and also told me that they are not strict on there free 30 day tune up policy. Basically b/c I bought in winter and probably won't get to ride until Spring, he said just bring it in after about 30 days of use and they will do the necessary tune up. Fantastic. read more

Hannah and her team are excellent. I've brought my bike here several times for minor repairs. Last month I got a nail in my rear tire riding the lake path downtown and was pretty frustrated bringing it in on the front of the bus. They understood my frustration and were so fast, like 20 minutes from the time I carried it in and the time I rode out. Nothing but great things to say. Thanks, guys! read more

best bike store in town! They are quick and they give you options on things for your bike rather than push a product they have. You can tell everyone there is very knowledgeable about bikes and can give you great advice on almost anything about bikes. read more

We were very happy here. We inherited a bike that needed some work. We brought it by to use the free pump outside. They checked out the bike and realigned the wheels for $10 and we got a nice helmet for $35. The customer service was excellent and prices to match. Would go here again and again! read more

I feel like I'm riding a new bike, and all I did was come in for brake pad replacement & hub adjustment. They did a great job on the brakes, and I'm pretty sure the friend who fixed my bike threw in a few extra nice touches. No pressure, direct but friendly communication, skillful and honest work, all with a laid-back and funky Uptown vibe. read more