Sumbaum Cycle

For cyclists across Illinois, finding a bicycle store that combines a rich history with modern service and a commitment to fair pricing can be a rare find. In Joliet, Illinois, Sumbaum Cycle stands as a true local institution, holding the prestigious title of the nation's second-oldest bicycle store, established way back in 1894. This impressive legacy is matched by their unwavering dedication to providing high-quality bikes, accessories, and expert service, all while prioritizing customer satisfaction and honest dealings. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting your cycling journey, Sumbaum Cycle is a destination that promises quality and integrity.

Sumbaum Cycle's longevity is a testament to its core values, which resonate deeply with the Illinois community. As one recent customer enthusiastically stated, "I recently visited Sumbaum Cycle and was really impressed with their pricing. Compared to other shops in the area, their bikes and accessories are very reasonably priced without compromising quality. I was able to find a high-quality mountain bike for much less than I expected, and they even threw in a free tune-up." This highlights a significant advantage for local shoppers: the ability to find premium products at competitive prices, a refreshing contrast to inflated costs often seen elsewhere.

What truly sets Sumbaum Cycle apart, and contributes to its enduring success, is its upfront and honest approach. The same customer noted, "The staff were upfront, honest, and never tried to upsell me on anything I didn’t need. If you’re looking for fair prices and great service, this is the place to go. Highly recommended!" This commitment to transparency and genuine customer care fosters deep trust, making Sumbaum Cycle a preferred choice for many Illinois residents seeking reliable cycling solutions. Another concise yet powerful review affirmed this, simply stating, "Great people and Excellent Service! They tuned my son's bike."

Owner Ted Sari, who has operated Sumbaum Cycle for 37 years, emphasizes that "Customer service is Number One. It keeps us alive." This philosophy is clearly evident in every interaction, from helping customers choose the right bicycle to providing meticulous tune-ups and repairs. Sumbaum Cycle isn't just a business; it's a family atmosphere where relationships with customers are valued above all else. This focus ensures that whether you're looking for an entry-level bike or a high-end model, you'll receive the same respectful and knowledgeable service. Their team of four long-time employees, all experienced cyclists themselves, further enhances the expertise and personal connection offered to the Illinois cycling community.

Sumbaum Cycle is conveniently located at 114 N Larkin Ave, Joliet, IL 60435, USA. This address places it prominently on Larkin Avenue, a major thoroughfare on Joliet's west side, making it highly accessible for residents throughout Joliet and the wider Illinois region. Its position across from Tony's Fresh Market further aids in its visibility and ease of location.

Joliet, being a significant city in Will County, boasts a comprehensive road network that allows for straightforward access to Sumbaum Cycle from surrounding communities such as Plainfield, Shorewood, Crest Hill, Romeoville, and Bolingbrook. For cyclists driving in, there is likely convenient parking available, which is a practical consideration when bringing a bike in for service or picking up a new one. The store's consistent operating hours (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, and Saturday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, closed Wednesday and Sunday) make it easy for customers to plan their visits.

The longevity of Sumbaum Cycle at this location since 1975 speaks to its established presence and accessibility within the community. For Illinois residents, finding a well-known and easily reachable bike shop that has served generations of cyclists adds an extra layer of comfort and reliability. Whether you're coming from across town or from a neighboring county, Sumbaum Cycle's location ensures a convenient and straightforward visit.

Sumbaum Cycle provides a comprehensive array of bicycle sales, services, and accessories, catering to a wide range of cycling needs for the Illinois community:

• Bicycle Sales (New and Used): They offer a diverse selection of bicycles, including road, mountain, commuter/urban, comfort, cruiser, fitness, hybrid, and children's bikes. They are a preferred retailer for popular brands like Trek and Electra, and also carry Aventon E-bikes. Their inventory includes models ranging from hundreds of dollars to high-end bikes up to $10,000, with a focus on catering to "any type of riding you want to do." They also sell pre-owned bikes.
• Electric Bicycle Sales: With e-bikes constituting a significant portion of their sales (around 30% and growing), Sumbaum Cycle is a go-to for UL certified e-bikes that reach speeds up to 28 mph, offering both commuter and hybrid models from brands like Aventon.
• Bicycle Repair and Maintenance: More than half of their business is dedicated to service and repairs. They handle everything from basic tune-ups ($89.00) and flat tire repairs ($15.00 on bike) to more extensive "Deluxe" tune-ups ($185-$225) which include detailed cleaning, chain, and cassette work. They also offer chain replacement, brake adjustments, wheel truing, and hub rebuilds.
• Winter Storage and Service Deals: Customers can leave their bikes at Sumbaum Cycle over the winter at no extra cost if they pay for a tune-up, allowing for convenient off-season maintenance. They also offer seasonal discounts on tune-ups (e.g., $100 off Level 3, $50 off Level 2).
• Vast Accessory Inventory: Sumbaum carries a wide assortment of accessories including helmets, lights (including daytime running lights), gloves, jerseys, locks, baskets, pumps, tools, maintenance supplies, bags, panniers, and car racks.
• Parts Sales: They stock various bike parts including wheels, tires/tubes, shifting/braking components, handlebars, pedals, drivetrains, and more to support repairs and upgrades.
• Price Matching: Sumbaum Cycle explicitly states that they price match, ensuring customers get competitive deals without compromising local service.
• Expert Advice: The experienced staff provides guidance on bike selection (e.g., recommending hybrid bikes for beginners) and safety, emphasizing the importance of helmets and lights.

Sumbaum Cycle distinguishes itself through a remarkable blend of heritage, customer focus, and comprehensive offerings:

• Historic Legacy: As the nation's second-oldest bicycle store (established 1894), Sumbaum Cycle boasts a unique history and deep roots in the Joliet community, having been owned by the Sari family since 1951. This longevity speaks volumes about their reliability and enduring quality.
• Fair Pricing and Value: Customers consistently laud Sumbaum for "reasonably priced" bikes and accessories without compromising quality, often finding high-quality mountain bikes for less than expected. They even offer a free tune-up with certain bike purchases and explicitly state they price match.
• Honest and Transparent Service: A key highlight is the staff's upfront and honest approach. They are praised for never trying to "upsell" unnecessary items and providing genuine recommendations, building significant trust with customers.
• "Customer Service is Number One": This core philosophy, as emphasized by owner Ted Sari, translates into a welcoming "family atmosphere" where staff take the time to build relationships and understand individual cycling interests, serving beginners and seasoned riders alike.
• Extensive Inventory (Bikes & Accessories): Sumbaum keeps a robust stock of approximately 150 new bicycles in the store at any given time, including popular Trek models and Aventon e-bikes, along with a wide assortment of accessories and parts.
• Strong E-Bike Focus: Recognizing the growing trend, Sumbaum actively promotes and stocks UL-certified electric bikes, which now account for a significant portion of their sales, catering to a new generation of riders.
• Expert Repair and Service Department: More than half of their business is dedicated to service and repairs, with experienced staff adept at everything from quick flat fixes to detailed tune-ups and winter storage programs, offering professional care that big box stores cannot.
• Experienced and Friendly Staff: The presence of four long-time employees, all experienced cyclists, ensures that customers receive knowledgeable advice and skilled workmanship from individuals passionate about the sport.

For those in Illinois looking to connect with Sumbaum Cycle, here is their contact information:

Address: 114 N Larkin Ave, Joliet, IL 60435, USA

Phone: (815) 744-5333

Mobile Phone: +1 815-744-5333

You can call them during their business hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. They are closed on Wednesdays and Sundays. Feel free to visit their website for their bicycling catalog, current sales, and more detailed information about their services and inventory. Their friendly team is always ready to assist you with your cycling needs.

For residents across Illinois, particularly in Joliet and the surrounding communities, Sumbaum Cycle is not just a suitable bicycle store; it is an invaluable local institution. Its remarkable 130-year history as the nation's second-oldest bike shop speaks volumes about its enduring quality, reliability, and deep roots in the community. This legacy translates into a trustworthiness that is hard to find in today's retail landscape.

The commitment to "fair prices and great service," coupled with an honest approach that never pushes unneeded items, directly addresses what many Illinois locals value most in a business. Whether you're seeking an affordable yet high-quality mountain bike, a cutting-edge e-bike, or expert repair for your trusty commuter, Sumbaum provides exceptional value without compromise. The significant portion of their business dedicated to service and repairs, backed by experienced mechanics, ensures that your bike receives the attention it deserves, whether it's a simple tune-up or a more complex fix.

Furthermore, Sumbaum Cycle's "family atmosphere" and dedication to treating people "the right way" create a welcoming environment that encourages repeat business and strong community ties. For any Illinois resident looking for a bike shop that offers competitive pricing, a vast selection of quality bikes and accessories (including popular Trek and Aventon models), efficient repairs, and most importantly, genuinely kind and honest service, Sumbaum Cycle is the definitive local choice. It's a place where tradition meets modern cycling needs, ensuring every customer, from beginner to expert, feels valued and well-served.

Sumbaum Cycle

114 N Larkin Ave, Joliet, IL 60435, USA