Fenton, Mi — October 19, 2020
The Lasco Press has reported on several fundraising efforts by the LAFF Pathways initiative. Most recently the 2020 Cider Cycle and the opening of Phase One of the Pathway. We had the opportunity to meet Ron Stack, who is the Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors for LAFF Pathways. Ron is also the owner of Cyclefit Inc., full-service bicycle and snow sports retailers with locations here in Fenton and in Saginaw.
It makes sense that a bicycle shop owner would be heavily involved with LAFF Pathways. The non-motorized trail that will connect the communities of Linden, Argentine Township, Fenton Township, and Fenton is already seeing heavy use from bicycle riders.
Conversation With a Bicycle Shop Owner
Admittedly, I am not into bicycles, I had never even been into a bicycle shop. My naive impression was that a small bike store was an overpriced place to get a bicycle. So, my first question to Ron was, “Why should I come to you to get a bicycle instead of going to the “big box discount store?”
Ron’s face lit up, “That’s a great question, and one I want everyone to know the answer to.” He went on to explain that my impression was not uncommon. However, thinking that you will end up paying more at a small bicycle shop is a misconception that is far from the truth. “We sell new bicycles at the same price point as the discount stores,” Ron said.
If you are looking for a sleek professional road racing bike, so you can join the Tour de France, Ron sells those. And yes, they are very expensive. Specific models such as specialty frames designed for off-roading or light-weight bikes designed specifically for competing triathletes can also be found at Ron’s cycle fit shop.
But, if you do not need the exotic and just want to ride with the family on a beautiful fall afternoon, a visit to Cyclefit at 1006 North Leroy Street in Fenton will cost no more than a stop at the “big box.”
Service, Service, Service
Ron is quick to point out there is a second answer to the question of why to choose the bicycle shop. Every bicycle must be assembled before it’s displayed for sale. Do you want your bike put together by a minimum wage worker with an adjustable wrench? Or would you prefer a professional bicycle technician to install all the parts with the assurance of proper tightness and a job done right?
Consider this, after the break-in period and connections are in need of an adjustment and retorque, is the big box store going to provide that service. Cyclefit does that for free on the bicycles they sell.
Quality Bicycles & Snowboards, Lickety-Split Service, and No Snobbery
It only takes a few minutes at the Cyclefit store to understand they mean it when they say ‘Quality bicycles & snowboards, lickety-split service, and no snobbery!” Visiting the shop was not the scary experience I expected. My other misconceptions quickly melted away.
- A wide price variety, sales, specials, discounts, and closeouts.
- Used bikes, kids bikes, they even take trade-ins.
- A huge selection, grandma’s tricycle, men’s and women’s beachcombers, hi-tech.
- Accessories, not just pedals and grips, specialty equipment, and clothing.
- Friendly and welcoming, snobs-no way, actually helpful, even for a novice like me.
Dave D., Matt C., Bethany M., Tom C., Rebecca S., Ron says his staff is the greatest. Find out for yourself, visit the shop, even if it’s just to take a walk around and see the cool stuff they have to offer.
Oh, yes, snowboard season is not far off. Ask about Cyclefit’s winter activities as well.
