New Cycle Shop for Hastings
With cycling continuing to increase in popularity, Cycleshack Hastings, located in the former Handsome Cycles premises on Harold Place, is a welcome newcomer to the town and already doing brisk business.
The shop is part of a small East Sussex chain with locations in Polegate, Lewes and East Grinstead. The firm’s guiding principle, according to owner Steve Granger, “is to provide a friendly, approachable service for everyone and… to encourage anyone to become enthusiastic about cycling. We believe people should feel comfortable in a bike shop and be able to buy their ideal bike, whatever their needs.”
During its 13-year existence, Cycleshack has seen radical changes: an overall increase in cycling, possibly partly boosted by both the government ride-to-work scheme and people using bikes to exercise during Covid. The recent e-bike revolution has also got people onto the saddle, especially in hilly areas such as Hastings, and enabled existing cyclists to remain riding for longer.
To better understand and serve customer requirements, Cycleshack endeavours to become rooted in the community where its shops are located, explains shop manager Harvey – who along with Kevin, George and Myles, comprise the Hastings staff team. Harvey has worked with bikes since he was 13 and built wheels which have literally been around the world. “We don’t employ anyone who isn’t a dedicated cyclist,” he explains – at one branch this even includes a triathlete.
Product and technical knowledge are consequently extensive, and all mechanics have completed the nationally accredited CYTECH apprenticeship scheme. Since electric bikes are considerably more complex than their people-powered counterparts – involving motors, control systems and associated software – such expertise is of paramount importance.
Aside from routine repair and servicing, the more welcome since the closure of High Tide Cycles in St Leonards, and available to all and on any make, the Hastings shop also offers what Harvey describes as, “bespoke fitting;” ensuring each bike perfectly matches its owner, to avoid aching backs and strained limbs. “It’s important to get the frame size right, don’t buy online,” advises Harvey, “especially those getting bikes for their 60th and 70th birthdays!” For customers purchasing a new bike, Cycleshack provides pre-delivery inspection and assembly. “Something you don’t get from an internet ‘bargain’,” adds Harvey.
Having excellent industry connections, Cycleshack can source a wide range of makes, including Cannondale, Trek and Orbea. The latter is a Spanish employee-owned enterprise, part of the famous Basque country-based Mondragon Cooperatives.
When HIP visited, the shop, centrally located on Havelock Road, had comprehensive stocks of parts and accessories and staff offering unhurried, friendly advice to a steady stream of current and prospective customers. And of course, they mend punctures.
Tel: 01424 722815. cycleshack.co.uk
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