Detroit Bikes will open its first retail location May 8 at 1216 Griswold in Detroit.
Kicking off at 11 a.m., the all-day event will showcase the company’s hand-made bicycles manufactured in Detroit.
The flagship store, Detroit Bikes 1216, is located on the first floor of the Albert apartment building in the heart of Capitol Park. The 1,200 square-foot space has been restored to reveal ornate crown moldings and stone columns. New features like oak paneling and antique display cases give Detroit Bikes 1216 a vintage feel.
In fact, Metzger’s Bicycle Shop, one of Detroit’s historic stores, which stood at 351 Woodward, inspired the new store’s design.
“We can’t wait for people to see it,” said Detroit Bikes President and Founder Zak Pashak. “Detroit Bikes 1216 is beautiful and evokes the city’s rich cycling history.”
In addition to its décor, Detroit Bikes 1216 probably won’t feel like any other bike shop. “You won’t be overwhelmed by hundreds of different models and your choices won’t be directed by a salesperson,” explained Detroit Bikes Retail Manager, Bill Sirl. “You’ll be able to take your time and decide what interests you.”
Detroit Bikes 1216 will serve as the showroom for the company’s growing line of signature bicycles manufactured in Detroit. In addition to its own cycles, 1216 will feature American made accessories and products by other local makers like Woodward Throwbacks and Better Life Bags.
As the first new retailer to move into Capitol Park, Detroit Bikes will expose audiences to a secluded part of downtown that’s undergoing a transformation. “It’s great to see people filling up some of the blank spaces,” said Josh Greenwood, Owner of Urban Bean Coffee in Capitol Park. “People are starting to get out and venture past their cubicles and explore more of the city.”
Founded in 2011, Detroit Bikes manufactures accessible, quality bicycles in Detroit. Leveraging a rich tradition of skilled manufacturing and innovative design, the company operates a 50,000 square-foot factory on Detroit’s west side with a capacity to produce 100 bicycles a day.
