Last time I went in, I was just browsing and had a few questions about various products I've been curious in. Once again, I wasn't on a bike and wasn't dressed in my Sunday best - they barely helped to answer my questions and treated me like a nuisance. I was about to buy a couple of things and then it hit me, why am I still giving these people my business?
This is a really good bike shop for top end bikes. The services offered here, including the fit service, is very good. The mechanics know their stuff, and are friendly. Although their main store is in Virgina, they do have a nice variety of bikes here you could try out. Their nutrition section is lacking. They have a small selection of apparel, but I prefer other brands that fit me tighter and better.
It's hard to find a place like this, I absolutely trust them with my bikes. Having been a customer for years (purchasing & service) I can honestly say this is really a world class shop. They have never tried to up sell me or steer me to an item I didn't need or want.
I've had other people tell me similar stories about going in on "normal people bikes" and being totally ignored. It's true, this place is awful, period. I try to "support my local bike shop," but honestly, how can I support these guys? Looks like the long drives to Spokes or buying products I can't see first from Amazon is the way to go for me.
My first experience at the shop was great, I was on a ride about a year ago and realized I should probably invest in some good gloves after freezing my hands off, they were extremely helpful in getting me a good pair, although they were rather expensive. I'd noticed how the guy's face lit up when he saw the bike I was on, but didn't think much of it. I should have noted it because subsequent experiences and conversations with others have led me to realize that this is a pretentious shop who only care about how much money they perceive you'll spend (and completely shortsighted in that many customers don't look like they're going to spend a lot of money).
I've had two other experiences since then, I went in to get a light (no bike); the guy pointed to some on the wall (cheap low quality ones). I wasn't interested in any and then saw a case with the more high tech ones that were significantly more expensive. When I indicated that these were what I was looking for, his demeanor changed entirely and he became extremely helpful.
My second experience happened when I came in on my other bike, my much less fancy commuter bike. I was barely regarded, and they were just willing enough to quickly sell me the tube I needed and get me out.
They do have some casual commuter wear that is work appropriate but you will pay for it. They main attraction is the performance gear. Which they have some nice stuff.
Even if I owned a $200 dollar huffy I would still come here; at least they will fix it right the first time and not leave me stranded.
This place is best for apparel and accessories. The staff were relatively friendly; about as friendly but not nosey as you would expect. I'd say friendly than an average Bethesda store. That said it is indeed expensive and it is not a large full service bike facility that some of the more dedicated larger stores are. It is good for a shorter trip to get some items.
Being the closest to me (there are two others in downtown Bethesda), I walked over earlier this week. The gentlemen in the back (working on the bikes) was very helpful. I inquired about general service on my Scott S20. He advised since they are more catered towards high end bikes, it could be pricey to get it serviced there. Since HTO is out of business, I will try Big Wheel Bikes next time for service. Also, I was looking for a screw to the front end light and he gladly provided at no charge and showed me how to easily fix it myself next time. All and all, it seemed they definitely know their customer service and are upfront about charges as well. I may not go there for service or purchase of a bike but I will gladly give them business for small purchase/item.
All in all it is a good shop for a quick stop.
Freshbikes Cycling is a US Bicycle Store based in Bethesda, District Of Columbia. Freshbikes Cycling is located at 7626 Old Georgetown Rd, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA.
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