Prince George has some of the most picturesque and accessible cycling trails in the province. And now, more than ever, people have a profound appreciation for the simple joy of strapping on a helmet and setting out for a ride.
That being said, you don’t want your first time on the trails to be your last. The bike will spend most of the time up, against a wall if you come home sore and aching.
“If the bike fits properly and is comfortable, it’s more likely you’ll use it forever, and that’s true for children and adults,” says Marianne Koops, manager of Koops Bike Shop. “If it’s not an enjoyable experience you’re not going to use it and ultimately you’re wasting your money.”
A lot of adjustments can be made to almost every bike to ensure a better ride for each rider. For example, moving the seat forward and back or up and down, re-positioning the handle bars, and making brake lever adjustments can help kids with control and offer a better riding experience overall.
“Most people have no idea that a seat can move forward and back, not just up and down,” Koops says. “That can make a huge difference for your comfort level. The seat has to be adjusted so it sits under you in the right spot.”
Customers are first asked what sort of riding they intend to do. Is the bike for kids cruising around the cul de sac, a thrill-seeking mountain adventurer, a city commuter, or a nature lover who wants long rides along river paths?
Budget is a factor but, more importantly, the Koops family believes in value. A cheaply made bike that breaks apart won’t encourage a lifelong love of cycling. An expensive bike with all the latest gadgets often isn’t necessary either. Instead, it’s important to invest in a well-made, durable bike that’s customized to your needs.
“If you invest in a better brand you’ll save in the long run,” Marianne says. “It won’t need to be constantly repaired.”
Koops Bike Shop believes so much in its products that it offers a trade-up program for kids’ bikes. “We expect the bike is going to last and, when they outgrow it, we will take it back on trade-in towards their next purchase,” she explains.
Her brother Jeff is the store’s head mechanic. His team reconditions the old bikes for resale, which in turn helps people who can’t afford a brand new bike.
If you’re ready to hit Prince George’s many bike trails in comfort, drop by Koops Bike Shop to get the bike that’s a perfect fit for you. It’s at 1659 Nicholson St. Call 250-563-4828 or 250-564-2503, email info.kbs@shaw.ca or follow them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
