I am in the process of looking for a good bike shop in Chicago, and would really appreciate any comments or suggestions. I am looking to get my wife a low-end mtb. The first thing I would like is a LBS that will actually fit her for a bike, even if it is around a $300 bike. It seams to me that most bikes in this price range have about the same components so what I am looking for is what fits her best. I know $300 is not going to get much but for how she will ride the bike it should be fine; it will never really be ridden hard unless maybe my 2 year old gets his hands on it in a few years ;) It will be mainly used on bike paths possibly pulling a bike trailer for the kids, once in a while it could see a little more serious riding but rarely. My wife is 5’3” and likes the feel of mountain bikes and does not really like the smaller tires on hybrids. I am sure whatever we get is going to keep up with my 12yr old rigid Schwinn. Hopefully, if she likes the bike enough I can try to swing a new bike for myself as well. Thanks, in advance for any help.

For bike shops try the following: Kozy's - several locations (www.kozy.com) ; Performance (on Halstead, just N. of Fullerton); or Johnny Sprockets on N. Broadway (also check out this link for shops in the area : http://www.trailmonkey.com/images/ildata.htm)

Unless you already have a bike picked out and are shopping for the best prices, <b>avoid Village Cyclery </b> (N. Wells). I swear I'm not making this up, but last year I was shoppping for a new bike. I asked to take a bike out for a test ride and the clerk says, "we don't offer test rides. But we do offer a satisfaction guarentee, blah, blah." Good luck.

Try Richards in Palos, great $, great selection. www.richardsbicycles.com

Try Otto's in Oak Lawn. Otto is a one man shop, and he'll take the time to serve you and your wife, while explaining and answering questions. Richard's is good as well.

I am in the process of looking for a good bike shop in Chicago, and would really appreciate any comments or suggestions. I am looking to get my wife a low-end mtb. The first thing I would like is a LBS that will actually fit her for a bike, even if it is around a $300 bike. It seams to me that most bikes in this price range have about the same components so what I am looking for is what fits her best. I know $300 is not going to get much but for how she will ride the bike it should be fine; it will never really be ridden hard unless maybe my 2 year old gets his hands on it in a few years ;) It will be mainly used on bike paths possibly pulling a bike trailer for the kids, once in a while it could see a little more serious riding but rarely. My wife is 5’3” and likes the feel of mountain bikes and does not really like the smaller tires on hybrids. I am sure whatever we get is going to keep up with my 12yr old rigid Schwinn. Hopefully, if she likes the bike enough I can try to swing a new bike for myself as well. Thanks, in advance for any help.
If you are close to the western suburbs try Westchester Wheels in Westchester. They are a great shop, no high school workers. They are mountain bikers themselves and are very knowledgable. The shop carries great brands(Giant, Kona, Rocky Mountain, Haro, Jamis, Felt) and will fit you to the right bike. They stock $200 bikes to the $4000 high end Giants, RM's and Konas.