The Unlikely Cyclist

Hello, California cyclists! In the vibrant heart of Costa Mesa, a truly special bicycle store has carved out a niche by offering not just bikes and gear, but also a supportive and knowledgeable community for riders of all levels. We're talking about The Unlikely Cyclist, a shop that lives up to its name by making cycling accessible, enjoyable, and empowering for everyone. This isn't just another place to buy a bike; it's a destination where you'll find expert guidance, quality products, and a passion for two-wheeled adventures that resonates deeply with the Golden State's outdoor culture.

In California, cycling is more than just a mode of transport or a fitness activity; it's a way of life. From the iconic coastal highways to the sprawling urban bike paths and challenging mountain trails, riders across the state demand reliable equipment and knowledgeable support. The Unlikely Cyclist understands this demand and goes above and beyond to meet it. What makes them particularly unique, as customers rave, is their genuinely knowledgeable staff, exemplified by individuals like Lisa, who "knows her stuff" and provides recommendations that are "comfortable and stylish and reasonably priced." This commitment to personalized service and empowering every cyclist, particularly highlighted by their support for women in cycling, makes The Unlikely Cyclist a standout in the Southern California bike scene. Their focus on creating a welcoming environment, offering classes, and organizing fun group rides truly sets them apart as a community hub.

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The Unlikely Cyclist is conveniently located at 1663 Superior Ave B, Costa Mesa, CA 92627, USA. This easily accessible address places the shop in a prime spot within Orange County, making it a go-to destination for cyclists from Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Irvine, and beyond. Superior Avenue is a well-known thoroughfare, ensuring straightforward navigation whether you're driving or cycling to the store.

The area around The Unlikely Cyclist generally offers reasonable parking options, which is a major plus for customers arriving by car, especially when transporting bikes or larger purchases. For those preferring to cycle, the shop's location in Costa Mesa means it's often within a comfortable riding distance from many residential areas and is well-connected to local bike routes. Its presence in a lively commercial district also means it's generally well-served by local amenities. This strategic and accessible location ensures that whether you're popping in for a quick accessory, a full bike fit, or joining a group ride, reaching The Unlikely Cyclist is a seamless experience for California locals.

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The Unlikely Cyclist offers a comprehensive suite of services, catering to a wide range of cycling needs, from performance enhancement to comfortable commuting and everything in between.

• Expert Bike Sales and Consultation: They specialize in helping customers find the perfect bike, whether it's a road bike, an electric bike for car-free living, or other styles. Their staff, described as "very knowledgeable," takes the time to understand individual needs and preferences. They stock a wide array of brands including Cannondale, Linus, Cervelo, Specialized, Bianchi, Pashley, Brompton, and more, ensuring a diverse selection for every rider.
• Professional Bike Fitting and Saddle Consultation: Understanding that a comfortable ride is crucial, The Unlikely Cyclist offers master bike fitting services with specialists like Lisa. Their philosophy is that "your bike should not hurt you," and they work diligently to optimize your bike's setup for comfort and efficiency, preventing common cycling discomforts.
• Full Service and Repair Department: The shop boasts a "full service department" with a "master mechanic" known for fast turnaround times and excellent attention to detail. Services include tune-ups, overhauls, custom bike builds from the frame up, and wheel building and service. This ensures that whether you need routine maintenance or a complex repair, your bike is in expert hands.
• Cycling Apparel and Accessories: Beyond bikes, The Unlikely Cyclist offers a carefully curated selection of cycling apparel and accessories. They are noted for carrying a fine range of women's cycling apparel in an inclusive size range (XS through 3XL) from brands like Velocio, Castelli, and Machines for Freedom. They also provide accessories from leading brands like Kask, Swift Industries, fi’zi:k (as praised by a customer for comfort and style), and nutritional supplies.
• Classes and Group Rides: Fostering a strong cycling community, The Unlikely Cyclist organizes "fun" classes and group rides. These initiatives provide opportunities for cyclists to learn, improve their skills, and connect with like-minded individuals, enhancing the overall cycling experience in Orange County.
• Electric Bike Sales and Service: Recognizing the growing popularity of e-bikes, they help customers select "cute, utilitarian, electric bike for car-free life," showcasing their ability to meet diverse modern commuting and recreational needs.

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• Women-Owned Small Business with an Empowering Mission: The Unlikely Cyclist is proudly a women-owned small business, a feature that customers specifically appreciate and love supporting. Their mission is to empower "all women – regardless of ability, shape or size – to excel in the sport of road cycling," creating a uniquely welcoming and inclusive environment that was born from the owners' recognition of the discomfort some women felt in traditional bike shops.
• Highly Knowledgeable and Personable Staff: The team, including individuals like Lisa, is consistently praised for their deep expertise and friendly, approachable demeanor. Customers highlight their ability to provide insightful recommendations for products like bibs and cycling shoes, ensuring comfort, style, and reasonable pricing. This personalized attention sets them apart.
• Comprehensive Product Selection: The shop offers a wide and impressive selection of bicycles, parts, apparel, and accessories from renowned brands. This extensive inventory caters to diverse cycling disciplines and preferences, from road bikes and electric bikes to specialized components and stylish apparel, making it a one-stop shop for many cyclists.
• Strong Community Engagement through Rides and Classes: Beyond sales and service, The Unlikely Cyclist actively builds a vibrant cycling community. The provision of "fun" classes and organized group rides creates opportunities for customers to connect, learn, and enjoy cycling together, fostering a sense of belonging among local riders.
• Expert Bike Fitting and Comfort Focus: A significant highlight is their dedication to proper bike fitting and saddle consultation. With a "master fitter" on staff, they emphasize that "your bike should not hurt you," working to ensure optimal comfort and performance for every rider, a crucial aspect often overlooked by other shops.
• Commitment to Quality and Practicality: The shop's recommendations, such as the fi’zi:k cycling shoes being "comfortable and stylish and reasonably priced," underscore their commitment to quality products that are also practical and offer good value, aligning with the needs of everyday California cyclists.

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Ready to visit or connect with The Unlikely Cyclist? Here’s their contact information:

• Address: 1663 Superior Ave B, Costa Mesa, CA 92627, USA
• Phone: (949) 566-5202
• Mobile Phone: +1 949-566-5202

Feel free to reach out by phone during business hours to schedule a bike fitting, inquire about specific products, or simply get expert advice. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff are always ready to assist the cycling community of Costa Mesa and beyond.

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For locals in Costa Mesa and across Southern California, The Unlikely Cyclist is more than just a bike shop; it's a vital community resource and a true partner in your cycling journey. Their suitability for the local California user stems from several key aspects that resonate deeply with the lifestyle and needs of riders in the state. Firstly, as a proudly women-owned small business, it offers a refreshing and inclusive environment that particularly appeals to and empowers women cyclists, providing a space where everyone feels comfortable and understood. This focus on inclusivity broadens the appeal and makes cycling more accessible for a wider demographic.

Secondly, the overwhelming feedback from customers consistently highlights the exceptional knowledge and personalized attention provided by the staff. The ability of individuals like Lisa to offer tailored recommendations, from specific bibs to comfortable and stylish cycling shoes that are also "reasonably priced," demonstrates a genuine commitment to customer satisfaction and a deep understanding of cycling ergonomics and product value. This level of expert, individualized advice is invaluable, ensuring that locals make informed decisions that enhance their riding experience. Whether you're a seasoned road cyclist tuning up for a long ride along the coast or someone looking for an "electric bike for car-free life" to navigate urban landscapes, their diverse inventory and expertise cater to California's varied cycling scenes.

Finally, The Unlikely Cyclist's commitment to building and nurturing a cycling community through "fun" classes and group rides is a significant draw for locals. In a state where outdoor activities and community engagement are highly valued, these initiatives provide perfect opportunities to connect with fellow enthusiasts, learn new skills, and explore the beautiful Southern California terrain together. This comprehensive approach, combining expert sales and service with a strong community focus and a welcoming, knowledgeable staff, firmly establishes The Unlikely Cyclist as the ideal local bike shop for Californians seeking a truly enriching and supportive cycling experience.

The Unlikely Cyclist

1663 Superior Ave B, Costa Mesa, CA 92627, USA