Sunday, March 25, 2007

Bike Shops


Bike Shops

Making a trip to the French bike shop is a little different than the states but if I know my audience well I know you’ll enjoy. Depending on the exchange the prices aren’t always cheap. The fun part is you’ll always find one or two things you like to take back for friends.
One cool thing about France is that you may find European models and colors you can’t buy in the states. Some shops have their own kits and these seem to be the best sellers among the tourists.

Paris—Cycles Laurent. With 3 visits under my belt Cycles Laurent qualifies as one of my “worth a visit” shops. It’s small and won’t blow you away but is run by the 3 generations of cyclists. They know in July to have kits available. Also be aware they always try to give you one size too big (laughs). As for complete bikes I seem to recall Scott, Cyfac, and some limited Assos clothing in stock.

9 Boulevard Voltaire - à 100 mètres de la Place de la République – Metro Stop use Republique or Obekampt.

Paris—Velo et Oxygen. With a chain store atmosphere this shop isn’t on my favorites list but if you need something they have a good selection and the staff seemed nice. This shop is not far from the Arc de Triomphe on the Avenue of the Grande Armee. If you’re into motorcycles the area around the shop will be heaven as it seems every brand of Moto is sold on shops on this street.

72 ave de la Grande Armée, 75016, PARIS, 01 45 74 27 38

Paris—Cycles La Gazelle-Etoile. I probably would not send anyone out of their way to visit but it is just down the street from the Velo et Oxygen so maybe you’d like to stop. The shop was very small with only 2 frames and 3 complete bikes in stock. You will find Bianchi, Colnago, and Stephan Roche brands here and a tiny selection of accessories.

13 ave de la Grande Armée, 75116

www.la-gazelle.com

Lourdes – Cycles Arbes. I have visited this shop on 3 occasions and have been more than satisfied every time. The owner is very helpful and it is worth the visit. The shop is not directly in town but more on the outskirts. Walking will take 20 minutes each way from town. Cycles Arbes has had a nice selection of high-end Pinarello and Look bicycles as well as a good selection of nice clothing including Castelli.
Tél. 05 62 94 05 51, 51 Bis, Avenue Alexandre Marquis, Lourdes

Bourg D'Oisans—Cycles et Sports. Another worth spot to visit--If you like team kits this is your place as they have them from floor to ceiling and they also have several versions of their own kits. They don’t have too many bikes for sale—more accessories but they do have large service area so if you’re having mechanical issues perhaps they could help. Located in the heart of Bourg d’ Oisans the store is busy in July and best of all is right next door to an artisan chocolate shop.
Place du Doctuer FAURE 38529 Bourg d’ Oisans 0033 04 76 79 16 79
http://www.cyclesetsports.com/

Decathlon—Chain With locations all over France you’ll see plenty of Decathlons during your travels. They are a sporting goods chain that has a bike department so don’t count on them for all items. If you need a tire, tubes, sports drinks, then they are your place. Think of them more of a back-up spot than a primary destination on the “must see” list. If you plan on camping than Decathlon can be a helpful place as well.

1 comment:

Mark. said...

I was looking up the shops on your site and it seems that Cycles Arbes may have a different address than you have listed. Maybe they have moved? Same phone number though.

10 Rue Francois Abadie
65100 LOURDES

http://www.cycles-arbes.com/