Working in bike shops has been a significant part of my career journey, offering diverse experiences across various retail environments. From small, family-run businesses to large corporations like REI, each shop presented unique challenges and learning opportunities. My experiences range from Trek dealerships to Performance Bikes, Atlanta Cycling, and finally, Rei Bike Shops. This journey provided a comprehensive view of the bicycle retail landscape, highlighting the differences in management styles, work culture, and customer service approaches within the industry, especially when considering REI bike shops.
Early Days: Learning the Ropes at Trek Dealers
My entry into the world of bike mechanics began unexpectedly after a layoff in 2009. Finding myself in San Antonio, Texas, I landed a job at a Trek dealer. Despite the modest pay of $8 an hour, this year-long stint was invaluable. The experienced mechanics took me under their wing, and I absorbed a wealth of knowledge, starting from the ground up. However, the management style was unpredictable. We humorously nicknamed the place “Thunderdome” due to the sudden policy changes and abrupt firings, creating a somewhat unstable work environment.
Alt text: Bicycle mechanic apprentice learning wheel repair techniques at a Trek bike shop, San Antonio, Texas.
Moving to Atlanta, Georgia, I sought further experience, initially volunteering at a bike co-op. Following this, I briefly worked at Performance Bikes. Unfortunately, this experience was disappointing. The corporate emphasis on speed over quality led to rushed and, frankly, subpar work. Adding to the frustration, my hours were consistently under 20 per week, all for the same $8 hourly wage. The work ethic and environment were simply not a good fit, and I felt professionally compromised.
Finding a Fit and Moving Up in Atlanta
Fortunately, my next role in Atlanta was at another Trek dealer, but this one was vastly different. Owned and managed by a welcoming family, the shop fostered a warm and supportive atmosphere. The quality of work was prioritized, and I felt valued as an employee. While the pay was only slightly better at $9 an hour, the positive work environment made a significant difference.
Seeking better compensation and a shorter commute, I transitioned to Atlanta Cycling. This move proved to be a turning point. The pay was considerably higher, and the shop offered consistent hours and profit-sharing based on performance. The training was robust, and I took pride in the quality of my work and the shop’s reputation. Sadly, this positive experience was cut short after a year due to a relocation to Texas. For anyone in Atlanta looking for a reputable bike shop, both as a customer or employee, Atlanta Cycling comes highly recommended.
Embracing the REI Experience: Opportunities and Challenges
Upon moving to Texas, I joined REI, marking my entry into a large retail corporation and specifically REI bike shops. REI offered consistent hours, especially for those willing to work across different departments like general sales, registers, and teaching classes. The benefits package was initially attractive, although health insurance for part-time employees was later reduced. My nearly three-year tenure at REI provided valuable experiences and insights into their operations.
Alt text: Exterior view of REI store showcasing a selection of bicycles for sale, highlighting REI bike shops.
One of the significant positives of REI was its commitment to training. They utilized Barnett’s Bicycle Institute practices, a well-respected standard in the industry. For committed employees, REI offered the opportunity to attend Barnett’s formal training, a substantial professional development benefit. Furthermore, the employee discounts were exceptional. I recall purchasing a Thule hitch rack for a mere $75 during a “mega pro-deal” event. The pre-shopping at garage sales was another enjoyable perk.
However, working at REI bike shops also presented challenges. Despite being a modern retailer in many aspects, REI’s bike service record system was surprisingly antiquated, relying on paper forms well into recent times. Labor scheduling was also a point of frustration. Based on corporate projections made weeks in advance, staffing levels could not easily adapt to sudden surges in bike repair demand. This often led to customer wait times of several weeks, even with multiple mechanics on staff, simply due to inflexible labor allocation. Explaining these delays to customers, knowing the repairs could be turned around in 48 hours with adequate staffing, was professionally embarrassing.
REI Bike Shops: A Positive Experience with Corporate Realities
Overall, my time at REI was largely positive. The experience heavily depends on local management, but the foundational aspects of training, customer service expectations, and employee benefits were generally strong. REI uses established Barnett’s methods for bike servicing, ensuring a consistent and professional approach to repairs. The potential for professional development through Barnett’s training and the generous employee discounts are significant advantages of working at REI bike shops.
Reflecting on my bike shop experiences, choosing between REI and a good local bike shop is a complex decision. If I were still in Atlanta, I likely would have remained at Atlanta Cycling for many years, valuing the close-knit, family-like atmosphere and direct connection to the shop’s success. At REI, while offering stability and benefits, you are inevitably a smaller component within a vast corporate structure. Local bike shops often foster a sense of belonging and shared purpose, where individual contributions are more directly recognized and rewarded. Both environments have their merits, and the ideal choice depends on individual priorities and career goals within the cycling industry.
Alt text: REI bike shop mechanic assisting a customer with bicycle selection and advice, emphasizing customer service.
