Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Bicycle Experts in Columbia
Since 1967, Walt's Bike Shop has been a cornerstone of the Columbia cycling community. Founded by Walter Gerards, our shop began as a small storefront and has evolved into a premier destination for cyclists of all levels. Our commitment to exceptional customer service and cycling advocacy has remained unwavering through three generations of ownership. We take pride in our deep local roots, having served countless riders through bike tours, club activities, and community events. Our expert team combines decades of technical knowledge with personalized service to ensure every customer finds their perfect ride. From basic repairs to custom builds, we approach each service with the same dedication that earned us our reputation.The 1994 expansion allowed us to enhance our offerings while maintaining the family-owned ethos that defines us. Today, co-owners Mark Bendel and Sarah Ashman continue this legacy, supported by a passionate staff who share our love for cycling. We invest in ongoing training to stay at the forefront of cycling technology and fitness trends. Our lifetime free labor policy for new bike purchases demonstrates our commitment to long-term customer relationships. Through every ownership transition, our core values of expertise, community engagement, and cycling promotion have remained constant. This enduring dedication has made us a trusted partner in the region's active lifestyle movement.
Services
Bicycle Repair
Bike Sales
Custom Bikes
E-Bikes
Accessories
Indoor Fitness Equipment
Details
- Year established: 1967
Highlights and features
- 50+ years of cycling industry expertise
- Certified Bosch/Shimano e-bike technicians
- Lifetime free labor on new bike purchases
- Custom bike fabrication partnerships
- Community cycling advocacy leadership
Services
Bicycle Repair
Our certified technicians provide comprehensive bicycle repair services using specialized tools and manufacturer-approved techniques. From basic tune-ups to complex drivetrain overhauls, we ensure optimal performance for all bike types. With over five decades of combined experience, our mechanics address everything from wheel truing to suspension system adjustments, maintaining your investment's longevity.
Bike Sales
We offer an extensive selection of premium bicycles from industry leaders like Trek, Salsa, and Electra. Our inventory includes road, mountain, hybrid, and specialty bikes for riders of all skill levels. Knowledgeable staff assist with proper fit analysis and component selection to match your riding style and terrain requirements, ensuring perfect bike-bodily alignment.
E-Bikes
Our electric assist bike program features models from Trek and Electra with integrated Bosch and Shimano drive systems. These modern cycles provide pedal assistance for commuters and recreational riders, featuring advanced battery technology and smart connectivity options. We offer specialized service support including software updates and charging system diagnostics.
Custom Builds
Through partnerships with Waterford Precision Cycles and Independent Fabrications, we create custom bicycles tailored to individual specifications. This service includes frame geometry optimization, component selection, and material customization for performance road, touring, and specialty applications, ensuring a perfect personal fit.
Fitness Equipment
Our fitness department features premium cardio and strength training equipment from Spirit Fitness and Body Solid. We provide expert guidance on home gym setup, space optimization, and workout integration. The selection includes treadmills, stationary bikes, and resistance systems designed for year-round training regardless of weather conditions.
People
Mark Bendel
Co-Owner
Mark brings decades of cycling expertise to Walt's Bike Shop, having worked in various roles since the 1990s. His deep understanding of bicycle mechanics and community engagement drives our commitment to quality service and cycling advocacy.
Sarah Ashman
Co-Owner
Sarah has been an integral part of Walt's Bike Shop for over 15 years. Her passion for cycling and community development shapes our customer service approach and ensures continuity of Walt's original vision for the business.
Sam Botts
Service Manager
Sam leads our repair department with 20+ years of experience in bicycle mechanics. Certified in multiple component systems, he ensures our technicians maintain the highest standards of technical proficiency and customer service.
Questions
What bike brands do you carry?
We stock Trek, Salsa, Felt, Surly, All-City, Electra, Catrike, and Terratrike. Custom builds available through Waterford, Gunnar, and Independent Fabrications partnerships.
Do you service all bike types?
Our certified technicians handle road, mountain, hybrid, recumbent, and electric bikes. We have specialized tools and training for all major component systems including Bosch and Shimano Steps e-bike technology.
What's included in your lifetime labor policy?
New bike purchases receive free routine tune-ups and labor for parts replacements. This covers standard maintenance services for as long as you own the bicycle.
Can you help with custom bike builds?
Yes, we collaborate with premier frame builders to create custom bicycles tailored to your specific riding needs, body dimensions, and preferred cycling disciplines.
Do you offer test rides?
We encourage test rides on all new bikes, including our recumbent trike selection. This helps ensure proper fit and performance match for your riding style and terrain requirements.