I drove 30 minutes to drop off my bike for service on a Saturday at 2:00. Posted hours are 10:00AM to 4:00PM. Shop is empty. Doors locked, voicemail is full. No sign indicating why they are closed and if they will reopen today. A waste of my afternoon. The friend that recommended the shop warned that they never answer their phone. I should have been more cautious. read more

Finally saved up and got the bike I had been ooging over and saving up for since March. Could I have gotten this bike elsewhere? Sure, but I came back to them because of the experience I had when I first was checking things out in March. Once I was ready to buy, they got me all set up and I love my new bike! Buzzing around town on it with ease. Feel like a kid who got a new pony! read more

I've been going here for 10+ years. CVC is one of my favorite 'real' bicycle shops. By 'real' bicycle shop I mean a place run by committed enthusiastic staff. CVC is a small operation so don't go in there expecting them to drop everything the moment you walk in. John has provided excellent service and free advice/consideration of my nutty plans/ponderings for my next mod or bike whether I made the buy then and there or even at all. Thanks John! read more

Went to this place on a recommendation on Saturday, 4/11/15. There were two employees and one customer in the store at the time. I walked in with my wife to ask questions about getting some work done on an old bike that we wanted to get running again. At no time did either employee acknowledge us, say hi, or tell us that someone would be right with us. Have you ever been in a place where you felt so uncomfortable that you just left? After five minutes of waiting to be helped in some way, we ended up leaving. Now we, by no means, are avid bike riders nor do we look like your average bike rider (I am 50 and my wife is 48) but we soon realized that this was not the place for us. Now I am not the kind of person that goes around accusing people of being racist or prejudice, but today I felt uncomfortable and more importantly that I did not belong here! I am in customer service myself, and even if you have to make a customer wait, you at least acknowledge their existence. At no time were we ever spoken to or acknowledged. We ended up going to another shop in downtown Hayward. Immediately upon entering the Hayward Cyclery, we were greeted and asked how we could be helped by numerous employees throughout the visit. All we were looking for was someone who knew what they were talking about to guide us through what needed to be done. Castro Valley, in whole, can use some sensitivity training in a lot of their businesses, including this one. read more

Awesome secret hidden bike shop in a sleepy town! Cheers to Paul for being very helpful and an all around cool guy. Kudos to the crew there for a great tune up on my mtn bike. It feels completely dialed in now!!! Bonus for not trying to sell me one of everything in the store when I walk in...even though I did want one of everything. But due to its location on the outskirts of C.V., I assume they'll never get a sidewalk or a proper driveway in front of their shop. It's just a big incline of uneven pavement! I'll continue to cringe as I'm reminded of that fateful moment of undercaffeinated insanity when I tried to make a U-turn along that slope--while trying to escape sudden impact from overcaffeinated soccer moms on cell phones in their land tanks speeding in both directions--and my car left a nice streaking kiss on that asphalt that I'm sure made dogs for miles around tilt their heads and howl. I guess that's just the price of admission to this hidden gem. Will definitely continue to patronize CVC for all my biking needs. I'll just, uhh, park wayyyy down the street. Yeah. Now Yelp would like to know if I have additional tips on this business. Hmm... Wheelchair Accessible? I don't see an option for "Wheeeeeee!!!" Parking: Ha!!! (OK, to be fair, a few spaces shared with a coffee shop next door...truck-friendly) read more

Came here sometime ago to buy a bmc race/team machine.. Was told to leave my number and the owner will get back to me with pricing..guess what? No call... Oh well. Bought a time frame instead... Then i came in again needing to have my chain rings adjusted, waited for 20 mins while the only guy chatted on the phone, mind you I was there first before the phone call.. He proceeded to chat away while 3 more customers come in.. So fed up i left and went to EDEN bikes a few Blocks down.. Better service and better bike shop altogether... Period! read more

It's 12:40 and they are not open though they advertise that they open at 12. A business should be open during business hours. Good thing I got a flat nearby and went here to have it fixed...oh wait they aren't open... read more

This place Hass to be the worst bicycle shop I've ever been to I bought a bike in May 2020I still have not received my bike yet I'm actually filing a police report against this pet person they have not even gave me a courtesy call I bought two bikes from them and if you guys are going to read this review please give me a call back my name is David I bought two bikes off of you guys in May I'm also filing a police report against you guys for not giving me my money back and for having my bicycle for over nine months now thank you guys very much for an absolutely nothing read more

Probably one of the most passionate shops around the CV/Hayward area. the owner, John, is very knowledgeable along with his whole crew. Patient guy and wasnt trying to just sell me any bike. He helped me understand what I should look for and consider when purchasing a road bike. He ended up showing me all sorts of Specialized road bikes that they had in stock. I still wasnt sure after test riding so he gave me a catalog to take home and look through in case i want to order one that he didnt carry. the next week that i came in, he had a Wilier Mortirolo that was just my size. Gave it a test run and instantly fell in love. He made adjustments and i became infatuated. Great tailored service and he ended up selling it to me for $1800 instead of the MSRP of $2600. Gotta support your local bike shop. FYI - They do local rides every other sunday from the shop i think and they are very helpful and inviting, though i have yet to join. read more

I went to CVC to have my fork replaced. John provided professional and friendly service, staying on top of the vendors to ensure a timely delivery. His work on the bone was great; it rides like a dream. Thanks CVC! read more

CVC has always been one of the best bike shops to visit for friendly service, honest sales, and amazing repairs. It's no wonder that I've been a customer since 1996. John K. has been part of the cycling industry for much of his life and his expansive knowledge about many products astounds me. He will find you the best solution to your bike's problem while doing his best to keep it easy on your wallet. Then leave it up to John or his amazing mechanic, Ray, to make sure the repair is done right just about every single time. Old or new, they know how to fix it. If you're looking for a new ride? Walk in and any of the employees there will be happy to show you what they've got. Everything from fun and casual to elite level racing bikes. If you're patient during busy hours rest-assured that you will get the attention of a focused and expert group of employees that will offer their honest opinion on what might be right for you. Not sure? Take test rides...They're cool with that! Finding you have to wait? Go next door for some great coffee at Valley Java. I can't say enough about the experiences and friendly people at this shop. I've been heavily into racing for the last 4 years and my BMC, Cannondale, and old Stumpjumper (all bought at CVC) are ready to go, every time. read more

Nice friendly owner and sells higher end products. Only complaints are, price is a bit high and it's done when I can get it attitude.

I have been an avid road cyclist for years, but only recently got turned on to long distance touring. Unfortunately, I couldn't muster much enthusiasm for the rides most bicycle tourists are riding, and the idea of panniers wasn't that thrilling to me, either. Enter John Koslosky and the guys at CVC. John is super knowledgeable about all things bike related and so patient with his clients. After carefully listening to my touring needs and also my passion for road bikes, John came up with the perfect solution for me. He recommended a carbon fiber Specialized Roubaix Comp with a massive 34mm cogset that would give me incredible low end gearing for those long, loaded climbs. Additionally, he recommended using a Yak bike trailer, eliminating the need for panniers. John gave me a great deal on an upgraded 32 spoke wheelset and matched them with a pair of Armadillo 25 steel-belted tires. He totally shared my enthusiasm for the bike and made sure everything was promptly ordered and delivered on time as promised. His main mechanic, Ray Lim, was equally amazing- putting my new cogset, Ultegra triple derailer, and durace chain on in less than 10 minutes; including tune-up! The rest of the guys at CVC were also totally courteous and helpful. All in all, they made my bicycle purchase extremely enjoyable and rewarding. And the bike delivered on the climbs. I have more gearing than my friends touring with triple chain rings and my bike is lighter and way cooler. I love the Yak bike trailer and it is hard to tell it is even there. I keep looking back to make sure it is still there. Thanks John and the gang at CVC. I'm all smiles and love my new ride. read more

Prompt, helpful and courteous and they were not even open yet! Love being able to shop local, support small business and get exactly what we need! read more

Castro Valley Cyclery - Bikes Near Me - Castro Valley, California

When it comes to bike shops in the bay I have been to them all. What I love about CVC is the service. The workers are friendly and far from over bearing. The let you look, they answer your questions, they are smart and fair. Prices are comparable across the board. Haven't had a bad experience with them yet. read more

I'm learning to be a do-it-yourselfer when it comes to repairing bikes. In other words, I have a lot of questions and half completed projects and need help. The gang down at CVC is always helpful (and patient). I go in there for parts, advice as well as service. Always friendly and they LOVE talking bikes. There is so much to this sport/hobby and I learn so much just shooting the breeze. Occassionally a bit busy and service may take a few days longer than you were hoping....but busy is usually a good sign. read more

CVC is a place you can go to find a wide range of most everything on 2 wheels (without a motor). I have been going to CVC since 1991 and without the expert service and advice of John "KOS" Koslosky My riding level would not get me past the boat docks at Lake Chabot. If there is a desire to learn and push the progression of what is possible on 2 wheels...Kos will back you up. With his many decades of cycling wisdom/ magic touch by "spinning the wrench" Kos has the ability and passion to get your and your bike/equipment/fitness up to par to tackle you goals and experience cycling at the highest level. read more

This shop disappointed me. I heard rave reviews, and that the owner was an Olympic-class bicycle mechanic, but the work I got done on my bicycle was far from Olympic-class. As well, hours are limited and the owner pursues an aggressive bike racing hobby, which has him gone for extended periods, so I had to leave my bike there for days at a time. It's a beautiful shop with an experienced owner, but my results were neither inexpensive nor masterful. read more

This place is great. Its a small shop and not much there. But what they have is quality at great prices. Very competitive. They have a mix of specialized, BMC, Ibis. think a little shop that can do a lot. The selection here is a little small, just like all the stores in Castro Valley. But what they have is what I need, great bikes. But this place has to be the most helpful in the area. This is a super shop, I wish I lived a little closer. They are a nice bunch, very knowledgeagle of their bikes. Bikes ***** not sure about the mechanic *clothing. ***** staff ****overall One downside, not much parking. read more

I've lived in CV almost all my life and never knew this place existed! I bought 2 bikes (1 for myself) last week and the customer service was GREAT. We were helped by 2 employees, Kevin and Paul, who were both knowledgeable and extremely helpful. I am also a newbie to biking and asked a lot of stupid questions that they were more than happy to answer. We were able to test ride the bikes and they made the necessary adjustments to ensure our comfortability. I was there for quite some time and never felt rushed or pressured to buy anything....although, I had initially gone in looking for 1 bike and ended up walking out with 2. BUT I was given a nice discount that I just couldn't turn down. Another added plus: My bike purchases come with a lifetime of free tune-ups that can be redeemed once a year. (I've seen these tune-ups go for $~90) I will definitely take them up on this offer and plan to shop here for all my future biking needs. THANKS A BUNCH CVC! read more

It is hard to find local shops anymore that actually have a passion for what they do. These guys know bikes. They did amazing service on my Specialized and I'll continue to come back for service. read more

I just got fitted here on 2/23/12 and all I can say is wow. John got me dialed in way better then I expected. I bought a used bike off of Craigslist knowing only a few things about road bikes and got lucky and bought something that semi fit me. However during the fitting John noticed my handle bar looked a little small it was a 42cm that actually ran a little smaller then 42cm anyways we swapped that out for a 44cm and omg that was the game changer right there. It was instantly a different bike. I was always told it's normal to feel uncomfortable on a road bike etc etc. Well after my fitting with John you know what I say to that "Go get fitted by John Koslosky over at Castro Valley Cyclery". He got me on a really comfy saddle, he got my seat post in the position so I have as much power and comfort as possible. He got the right stem on my bike so I wasn't so hunched over anymore. He put cleat stackers under my cleats to even something that I forget out maybe my knees but don't quote me on that. He did so much that I knew this guy wanted to get me feeling the best I could possibly feel on my road bike which is why the least I can do is write him an excellent review on his fitting abilities, his fantastic shop, and his awesome crew of mechanics. Long live Castro Valley Cyclery and the excellent services they bring to the people that encounter this fine establishment. read more

These guys are the best! Highly recommend CV Cyclery for high end and low end budgets. I appreciate them fixing me up with the tires and tubes today! Have a Happy New Year! read more

Overall bad experience.I left a Mtn bike for parts upgrade and when I got back the bike was finished and I asked for my old parts back,they said they didn't have them and they were gone.Very rude to deal with. read more

Absolutely first-class service from Brennan. It was a real pleasure to deal with this independent bike shop. Brennan went the extra mile to help me. Five stars well-earned for pure customer service! read more

Made the trek from Oakland, because Kos and his crew are EXEMPLARY in taking care of, having the depth of knowledge+sage and are fearless about repairing and tuning really old steel bicycles with Sturmey-Archer Hubs. They also go above and beyond the call of duty when it comes to trouble-shooting and offering a personal touch. I even left my Specialized Tricross with them, after I picked up my Dutch Olympia Batavus, so they could tune it up, too. Seriously, you get what you pay for at this shop--and some of their service offerings are priceless. You won't get the 'Tude here, either--all ridership levels are welcomed. WAY-BEST is all that really needs to be said!! read more

DO NOT give this place any of your business!! The negative reviews are correct! My husband and I walked in to this bicycle shop on a whim as I was looking for a bicycle and we were in the area. We were not acknowledged until after about 5 or 10 minutes inside the shop. John, the owner, finally approached us after spending fuck knows how long yapping with this older guy at the counter...it really is like a bar/club. The model and size of the bicycle I wanted was not in stock at the store so John ordered it...this was the latter part of December. We did not pay for it but we were quite certain that we would purchase it after I tested it. When we got home, Paul from the store called and said because the bike was located in Ohio, it would take about 2 weeks to arrive and I said no problem. After calling the shop multiple times with the voice-mail being full and sending an email via Facebook, to follow up after two weeks no one responded. I was DONE! I bought the bike elsewhere and received much better service! Almost two months has gone by and Paul leaves a message today that he just built the bike and wanted to let me know. I called back and asked when did the bike arrive and he said a few days ago...BULLSHIT! He said that he knew nothing about the order from December. Umm really? You were the one that called me on the day it was ordered to let me know it would take about two weeks. He says thanks for calling and I said that was bad business and to let John, the owner, know. This place doesn't care or want your business. John and his idiot employees are a bunch of lying assholes and I am so glad that I didn't wait for a call that came 2 months later! read more

So I have been riding for 30 plus years. I ride about 6k miles a year and started to develop problems w/ the fit on my road bike. I looked online at other places and decided to give John(owner) and his staff a chance. Sitting on the trainer for about 30 minutes, John was able to recognize what needed to be done. After a few adjustments, we went for an hour ride. I instantly could feel the difference. The next day I did 60 miles w/3500' of climbing and had no problems! This is definitely an underrated shop that deserves a lot of props! John has been doing this for over 30 years and it shows. His staff is very helpful and enthusiastic w/ no attitudes. Everybody makes you feel like your at home. I highly recommend the place for your cycling needs or just to hang out! read more

These guys are hiding in plain sight; had no idea they were here until I took a wrong turn looking for Foothill and ended up on their street, with the concrete bib in front of the shop a convenient turn-around. Even then would have missed them if I had not looked up. Oh, a bike shop here?? Who knew???? A few weeks later, I needed help with some cleats for my new shoes (a whopping $18 item) and I must say, they could not have been more helpful. Got to meet the owner Jon, a real old school bike freak even if he does lean toward carbon now. They installed the cleats, insisted I take a few test spins to make sure the placing was correct, helped with adjustments. Labor charge was zero. And they give discounts for Calif Ride for Aids riders. I spend a few minutes browsing, to note that their inventory of accessories is small-shop-sized but very selective. You will not find any rubbish here. In short, they have can-do mentality, know what they are about, and seem more interested in service and end results than making a quick buck. Kind of makes me want to go back and spend some serious $ to make sure they stick around. Highly recommended (if you can find them!) By all means, go. read more

Never in my life have a seen a business owner not react to a customer like this place. My BF went in to grab a brake cable and literally watched the guy chat with a friend, answer the phone and look around the place. He had to actually walk to the guy and say something to get any help. To add insult to injury, the guy refused to let him use a credit card because the cable was only $2.00. If you value customer service, go somewhere else. WE WILL NOT BE BACK. read more

This bike shop truly rocks. I took my 2008 Novara in for a tune-up and it rides like a completely new bike. Took my bike out for spin today just after picking my bike up yesterday from the shop and rode a total of 20+ miles including some street and trail. Thanks for hooking me with an awesome tune-up guys! I will totally be back. read more

Took my old Schwinn Varsity in for a tune-up.. Tires, tubes, brake pads..etc.. A week later the bike is done. The repairs seem to be solid, but they didn't even give the bike a wipe down before returning it....just a damp cloth reach around would have been sufficient..Sad way to treat a now former customer giving him back a filthy bike after a go-through... Lazy SOB's... read more

I think this place is run more like a bike club house rather than a business. I went in on a slow Sunday to look at a particular road bike that I had been researching online. While doing that I purchased a bike tire. I didn't realize the size was wrong so I decided to purchase the correct tires online and return the one I purchased when I would be in the area again in two weeks . I needed the tires immediately and since I live in San Francisco I didn't want to wait to purchase them from cvc when I returned to the area. So, a few weeks go by and I bring in the incorrect tire that I wanted to return. I walk into the shop and John is chatting with someone near the counter. There is a younger guy behind the counter that looks like he might be a bike mechanic? I walk in and stand by the counter. Also present is the very nice dude who I purchased the bike tire from looking very busy with a customer handling a test ride and a few other things? John does not break from his conversation with a, "can I help you" or "be right with you". He simply continues his casual bike chat with the other customer. I am basically ignored until I ask the guy behind the counter if he can help me. At that point John chimes is and says, " someone will take care of that in a minute" I got the impression that John, while friendly to other customers was rude to me because he only saw my as the "guy with the return". Before this experience I considered purchasing the road bike of my dreams from CVC. But, after this unhappy experience I will be spending my bike money elsewhere. A little customer courtesy goes a long way in my book. read more

Love the friendly and personable service here. I highly recommend buying your new bike here or getting your current bike serviced. Great prices too read more

I love my bike! Awesome folks there. They'll take care of you like you're family.

This is hands down the best bike shop in the Bay Area. John and his knowledgeable staff can do it all, I've taken my bikes there over 20+ years now. Would definitely recommend them, especially hard to find and hard to fix parts. This shop is top of the line all around. read more

I looked at the reviews and noticed one negative one - the person felt he and his wife were ignored. I know the feeling. But, I also believe I understand the "why". This is what I would imagine an old school European style bike shop to be like. I've never seen a business so apparently uninterested in the bottom line. They are interested in the customer and the sport. If only one person is in the shop, they might put every resource on that one person and not even notice the rest of the world until they are done with that customer. Once they are helping you, you are all that matters. And, contrary to possible appearance, they don't care what level of rider you are. They do care that you ride and have the ride experience. If you're just going to buy a bike to collect dust in a garage, this might not be the right store. But, if you're going to buy a bike to ride and possibly get connected to a whole world of riders, I don't think there is a better place anywhere. John and his team will hook you up. I can't un-select the "Price Range". So, I want to add they have everything now from inexpensive (but still quality) to ultra high end. read more

We just got bikes from these guys and had a great experience. They sell the high-end crazy stuff, but were very patient and understanding in setting me up with a cushy ergonomic low-end cruiser. Good selection and great staff. read more

Small local shop; I went in and spoke to John who was SUPER nice and helpful... spent quite awhile talking to me about the important things I should be looking for and helping me find a bike that suited my needs. I really wanted to make my purchase from him but they didn't have anything for me to ride and were waiting for a shipment. I was asked to come back next week and they would have a few for me to look at. So I called back the next week and still they had nothing, asked me to call back in the next two days...well the next day I was able to find a bike that I been looking at online at another shop, so I made a purchase elsewhere. I would definitely consider this shop when I need upgrades or work done... read more

I wasn't let down when I came in looking for a road bike. These guys sell specialized branded bikes but in reality the brand isn't a huge difference when you're starting out. I've been going in and out to this since I bought my bike and what makes me come back are th employees. Not only are they all knowledgeable in all aspects of the bikes from road to mountain, they are current with bike news and events that are happening. I love a community of people who love their passion for biking in such a helpful way when I'm out buy g my first bike,my first clipless shoes, and even fixing my first flat tire. I would recommend this shop to anyone buying their first bike! Great people, great bikes. read more