B-17 Bikes

Welcome to B-17 Bikes, a highly specialized and deeply respected bicycle shop located in Fairfax, California, the veritable "birthplace of mountain biking." For passionate cyclists, particularly those with a leaning towards mountain biking and competitive racing, B-17 Bikes is far more than just a retail space; it's a dedicated hub of expertise, precision, and genuine passion. Unlike general bike stores, B-17 Bikes zeroes in on providing unparalleled service and optimization for serious riders, ensuring their bikes are perfectly tuned for both performance and safety on California's diverse and challenging trails. This article will provide a comprehensive insight into what makes B-17 Bikes a standout choice for local enthusiasts, highlighting its unique focus, the exceptional skills of its owner, and why it's the ideal partner for your competitive or recreational cycling pursuits in the Golden State.

At the heart of B-17 Bikes is Jim Hewett, a name synonymous with mountain biking excellence in Marin County. With over 30 years of experience in mountain biking and nearly 20 years dedicated to racing, building, and repairing bikes, Jim brings a wealth of knowledge and a competitive edge to his craft. This personal background means he "possesses a passion for mountain bike racing and customer service," a combination that translates directly into the quality of work and advice offered. For Californians who take their riding seriously, whether aiming to "be more competitive in races or simply want to optimize their bike for a safer and more enjoyable ride," Jim's expertise is invaluable. His reputation as being "very reliable, honest, and highly knowledgeable" is consistently echoed by grateful customers who have trusted him with their most prized cycling possessions.

In a region famed for its world-class mountain biking trails and vibrant racing scene, having a mechanic and advisor like Jim is a distinct advantage. B-17 Bikes caters specifically to those who understand that meticulous maintenance and thoughtful upgrades are key to unlocking a bike's full potential and ensuring a superior riding experience. This dedicated focus sets B-17 Bikes apart, solidifying its position as the premier choice for serious mountain bikers and performance-oriented cyclists across California.

B-17 Bikes is conveniently located at 2410 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Fairfax, CA 94930, USA. This address places it strategically in Fairfax, a town steeped in mountain biking history and a natural magnet for cyclists from across Marin County and beyond. Sir Francis Drake Boulevard is a major thoroughfare, offering excellent accessibility for customers traveling from various parts of the Bay Area.

The shop's presence on a key road ensures it's easy to find, whether you're driving your bike over for service or simply cycling by. While details on parking are not explicitly provided, being located on a main boulevard often means there are options for street parking or nearby lots. For cyclists, its location in Fairfax makes it an ideal stop before or after tackling the renowned mountain biking trails of Marin County, including those on Mt. Tamalpais or in the Tamarancho network. Its operating hours are generally 12-5 pm daily, though they also offer appointments outside of business hours by call or text, providing flexibility for busy riders. This blend of a central location in a cycling-rich area and accommodating scheduling makes B-17 Bikes highly accessible to its specialized clientele in California.

B-17 Bikes specializes in high-quality mountain bike service and optimization, catering to competitive riders and those seeking peak performance and safety. Led by Jim Hewett, an exceptional mechanic with decades of experience, the shop offers a focused menu of services designed to enhance every aspect of a mountain bike's performance.

• Comprehensive Tune-Up Packages: B-17 Bikes offers tiered tune-up services to meet varying needs, ensuring thorough maintenance and optimal performance:

  • Splitrock Tune ($150): This foundational service includes inspecting the frame, fork, and components; adjusting brakes (bleeding additional cost), front and rear derailleurs, bottom bracket, headset, and hub bearings; truing and tensioning wheels; lubricating cables, housing, and chain; and checking tire pressure. It's designed to provide reliable, timely repairs.

  • East Peak Tune ($225): Building on the Splitrock Tune, this package adds bleeding brakes, replacing new cables and housing, and adjusting, cleaning, and lubricating suspension components. This is ideal for riders seeking a more comprehensive performance upgrade.

  • Repack Overhaul ($425): The most extensive service, the Repack Overhaul includes all features of the East Peak Tune, plus a complete overhaul/rebuild of the fork and shock, as well as overhauling/greasing the suspension, bottom bracket, and headset. This is recommended for the most comprehensive service and best value, particularly for serious riders.

• A La Carte Bike Repairs: For minor fixes or specific adjustments, B-17 Bikes also offers individual repair services. They strive to complete bike service quickly and accurately.

• Performance Optimization: Jim's expertise extends beyond standard repairs to optimizing bikes for competitive racing and enhanced ride quality. This includes appropriate performance upgrades and fine-tuning to ensure riders can be "more competitive in races or simply want to optimize their bike for a safer and more enjoyable ride."

• Custom Bike Builds and Adjustments: While not explicitly stated as a full "build" service, reviews indicate Jim's skill in building and servicing bikes to meet individual rider needs, suggesting an ability to customize and configure setups for optimal performance. His "wide-ranging skill set of all things bikes" allows for tailored solutions.

• Expert Consultation and Advice: Jim is highly regarded for his knowledge and honesty. Customers benefit from his decades of experience in mountain biking, racing, and mechanics, receiving reliable advice on maintenance, upgrades, and overall bike care. This advisory role is a key part of the value B-17 Bikes provides.

B-17 Bikes distinguishes itself through several key features and highlights that firmly establish its reputation as a top-tier destination for mountain bikers and performance-oriented cyclists in California.

• Owner's Deep Expertise and Passion: The most significant highlight is Jim Hewett himself. His "passion for mountain bike racing and customer service," combined with "decades of experience" (over 30 years in mountain biking, nearly 20 years racing, building, and repairing), provides an unparalleled level of expertise. Customers explicitly state he is "highly knowledgeable" and an "exceptional mechanic."

• Specialization in Mountain Bike Performance: B-17 Bikes is Marin County's "premier shop for serious mountain bikers." This focused specialization means that every service, recommendation, and piece of advice is tailored to the unique demands of mountain biking, including competitive racing. They understand that "investments in quality components and regular maintenance pay off in improved performance."

• Reliability and Trustworthiness: Customers consistently praise Jim as "very reliable" and "honest." This builds a strong foundation of trust, crucial for intricate bike services where precision and integrity are paramount. The assurance that your bike is in "good hands" is a recurring sentiment.

• Personalized Customer Service: The one-on-one interaction with Jim ensures a personalized experience. He genuinely cares about optimizing each individual's bike for their specific needs, whether for competitive advantage or enhanced enjoyment and safety. This contrasts with larger, less specialized shops.

• Competitive and Optimization Focus: For riders looking to gain an edge in races or simply get the most out of their bike, B-17 Bikes excels in "optimizing their bike." This includes not just repairs but also appropriate performance upgrades, reflecting Jim's own racing background and understanding of what it takes to be competitive.

• Strategic Location in a Cycling Hub: Situated in Fairfax, the "birthplace of mountain biking," the shop is perfectly positioned within a vibrant cycling community. This location not only attracts serious riders but also allows for a deep understanding of local riding conditions and preferences.

• Flexible Appointments: While having standard business hours, B-17 Bikes offers the flexibility of appointments "outside of business hours" by call or text. This caters to the schedules of dedicated riders who may have limited availability.

To benefit from Jim Hewett's expertise and to schedule service for your mountain bike, you can reach B-17 Bikes through the following contact details:

Address: 2410 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Fairfax, CA 94930, USA

Phone: (415) 715-1331

Mobile Phone: +1 415-715-1331

Email: [email protected]

Business Hours: 12-5 pm daily. Closed Sunday and Wednesday. Call or text for an appointment outside of business hours.

For residents of Fairfax, California, and the broader Marin County cycling community, B-17 Bikes stands as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination, especially for those with a serious passion for mountain biking and performance. Its unique suitability for locals stems from its deep specialization, the unparalleled expertise of its owner, and a business model tailored to the needs of dedicated riders.

Firstly, the singular focus on mountain bikes and competitive optimization sets B-17 Bikes apart from general bicycle shops. In Fairfax, a town synonymous with the birth and evolution of mountain biking, having a "premier shop for serious mountain bikers" is a vital resource. Locals engaged in racing, or those simply seeking to "optimize their bike for a safer and more enjoyable ride" on Marin's challenging trails, will find Jim Hewett's decades of personal racing and mechanical experience invaluable. This specialized knowledge ensures that intricate technical issues are resolved with precision and that performance upgrades truly make a difference.

Secondly, the personal integrity and reliability of Jim Hewett are consistently highlighted by satisfied customers. Being described as "very reliable, honest, and highly knowledgeable" fosters a level of trust that is paramount when entrusting a high-performance bicycle for service or complex modifications. This personalized, one-on-one approach means locals aren't just getting a service; they're gaining an experienced advisor who is genuinely invested in their cycling success and safety. The flexibility of offering appointments outside regular hours also caters directly to the busy schedules of active cyclists, demonstrating a true understanding of local rider needs.

Furthermore, the value proposition of B-17 Bikes lies not just in its service menu but in the outcome: improved performance, enhanced safety, and greater enjoyment of the sport. For Californians who invest significantly in their mountain biking passion, B-17 Bikes ensures that those investments pay off. It’s not simply about fixing what’s broken; it’s about elevating the entire riding experience. In an area rich with cycling opportunities, B-17 Bikes stands as an indispensable local partner for those who demand the absolute best for their bikes.

B-17 Bikes

2410 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Fairfax, CA 94930, USA