Bike shops in Manchester
Manchester has a thriving cycling community, supported by several excellent bike shops that cater to all types of cyclists, from beginners to professionals. Here are some of the best bike shops in Manchester:
Evans Cycles
Evans Cycles is a well-known chain with a branch conveniently located in the Deansgate area. The store offers a wide range of bikes, including road bikes, mountain bikes, e-bikes and hybrids. They also offer bike maintenance, accessories and expert advice to help you choose the right bike. This is a one-stop shop for both beginners and experienced cyclists.
Location: Deansgate, Manchester
Services: Sale, repair, accessories and maintenance of bicycles.
Pop-up bikes
Popup Bikes, located near Manchester Victoria Station, is a unique bike shop that combines sales, rental and cycle cafe. This is Manchester city center’s first cycle park and bicycle repair shop. They offer a variety of bike types for sale, including used options, as well as repair services and secure parking. The relaxed atmosphere of the cycle café makes it a great place to relax and connect with cyclists.
Location: Corporation Street, Manchester
Services: Repair, bicycle rental, parking and bicycle café.
Harry Hall Cycles
With a history dating back to 1955, Harry Hall Cycles is a family-run shop that has long been a favorite with Manchester cyclists. They offer a range of bikes including road, mountain and hybrid bikes, as well as a variety of cycling equipment and accessories. Their knowledgeable staff is renowned for offering expert advice and personalized service.
Location: Whitworth Street West, Manchester
Services: Sale, assembly, repair and custom construction of bicycles.
Addicted to cycling
Cycle Addicts, located in Rochdale, serves Greater Manchester with an impressive range of bikes and equipment. From high-performance road bikes to electric bikes and kids’ bikes, they cater to all types of riders. They also offer a full repair and maintenance department, as well as a variety of cycling accessories.
Location: Rochdale, Greater Manchester
Services: Sale, repair, accessories and assembly of bicycles.
The bike doctor
The Bicycle Doctor is a well-respected independent bicycle shop in Rusholme, known for its reliable repair services and wide range of bicycles. From daily commuters to high-end road and mountain bikes, they have something for every type of rider. The store is popular for its expert mechanics who provide complete maintenance of the bikes.
Location: Dickenson Road, Rusholme, Manchester
Services: Sale, repair, maintenance and accessories of bicycles.
These stores offer everything from new bike sales and rentals to cycling repairs and accessories, ensuring Manchester cyclists have everything they need for a great ride.
Where to lock your bike in Manchester
Manchester is becoming more and more bike-friendly and there are many designated places throughout the city where you can lock your bike safely. Here are some of the best places to lock your bike in Manchester:
- Downtown Bike Racks
Manchester city center is equipped with plenty of bike racks that provide a convenient and secure place to lock up your bike while you explore. These racks are usually located near popular places, shopping areas and public transportation hubs. Some common locations include:
- Piccadilly Gardens
- Pierre Square
- Deansgate
- North District
These areas are well lit and busy, which can deter theft. It is advisable to use a sturdy D-lock or chain to secure both the frame and wheels of your bike.
- Transportation hubs and stations
Manchester’s main transport hubs have dedicated cycle parking facilities to accommodate commuters. Stations like Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester Oxford Road and Manchester Victoria have secure cycle parking areas and lockers. These facilities often benefit from CCTV coverage and are located in busy areas, providing increased security.
- Manchester Piccadilly Station: Offers sheltered bicycle parking with video surveillance.
- Oxford Road Station: Has bicycle racks near the entrance and under the station arches.
- University campuses
If you are cycling around the University of Manchester or Manchester Metropolitan University, there is plenty of secure cycle parking available on campus. These bike racks are often sheltered and located close to main buildings, libraries and student unions, providing convenience and safety for students and staff.
- University of Manchester: Bicycle shelters are available in different locations on campus.
- Manchester Metropolitan University: Designated bike racks and covered shelters are located near large buildings.
- Shopping centers and public buildings
Many shopping centers, public libraries, and museums have designated bicycle parking spaces. The Arndale Centre, Manchester Central Library and Manchester Art Gallery are popular locations with publicly accessible cycle racks.
- Manchester Arndale Center: Bicycle racks are available near the main entrances.
- Manchester Central Library: Offers secure bicycle parking right outside the entrance.
- Bikes ephemeral cycle park
For those looking for added security, Popup Bikes offers Manchester’s first indoor bike park, located near Manchester Victoria station. This facility offers covered, secure parking, ideal for those who need a safe place to leave their bike while working or exploring the city. Membership options are available for regular users.
- Location: Corporation Street, Manchester
- Features: Secure parking, repair services and bike café.
These designated areas provide secure options for locking up your bike, allowing you to explore Manchester worry-free.
Cycling in Manchester City Reddit
Find positive reviews and experiences of cycling in Manchester on Reddit. Find out what locals and visitors say about bike routes, rental options, and the city’s growing cycling community.
- “Cycling in Manchester is fantastic! Cycle paths and trails, like the Fallowfield Loop, make navigating the city easier and safer. The Bee Network Cycle Hire is very convenient and the growing cycling community is great. I highly recommend exploring Manchester by bike! » – R. Cliton
- “The Manchester cycling scene has really improved! New bike paths and parks make driving enjoyable. Popup Bikes is a great place for bike rentals and repairs. The city is becoming more and more bike-friendly – it’s definitely worth taking the tour! – Marry Wilson
Local cycling clubs in Manchester
Manchester’s cycling scene is supported by several active local clubs which cater for a range of interests and skill levels. Joining a cycling club can improve your riding experience and connect you with other cycling enthusiasts. Here are some notable local clubs:
- Manchester Wheels: One of Manchester’s oldest cycling clubs, Manchester Wheelers offers a variety of activities from competitive road races to casual social outings. The club is known for its inclusive atmosphere and regular group rides.
- Red Rose Route Club: The Red Rose Road Club is a popular choice for road cyclists, hosting regular rides and group events throughout the year. The club welcomes cyclists of all abilities and offers structured rides suitable for different experience levels.
- Stockport Clarion Cycling Club: Located just outside Manchester, Stockport Clarion Cycling Club offers a diverse range of activities including road cycling and mountain biking. The club is known for its friendly character and caters to competitive and recreational cyclists.
- Greater Manchester Cycling Club: The Greater Manchester Cycling Club promotes cycling throughout the region with various rides and events. The club is involved in community rides and cycling advocacy, supporting local cycling initiatives.
- Chorlton Cycling Club: Based in the Chorlton area, Chorlton Cycling Club offers a range of activities from social outings to training sessions. The club is known for its supportive environment and local cycling events.
These clubs provide excellent opportunities to engage with Manchester’s cycling community and enjoy organized rides and events.
Final verdict
Cycling in Manchester offers a dynamic and rewarding experience for cyclists of all abilities. From scenic routes like the Fallowfield Loop and the Rochdale Canal Towpath to the convenience of cycle hire schemes and secure parking options, the town offers plenty of opportunities for both casual and dedicated cyclists.
Joining local clubs can further enhance your experience, connecting you with other enthusiasts and organized events.
Whether you’re hitting the city streets or exploring the surrounding countryside, Manchester’s growing cycling infrastructure and vibrant community make it a great place to take up cycling.
Enjoy the ride and see everything Manchester has to offer on two wheels.