Freshbikes Cycling

Category:	Bicycle Store
Address:	7626 Old Georgetown Rd, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
Phone:	+1 703-248-9600
Site:	freshbikescycling.com
Rating:	3.9
Working:	11AM–8PM 11AM–8PM 11AM–8PM 11AM–8PM 11AM–8PM 11AM–6PM 12–5PM

Location

Photos 38

Reviews 7

Bradford Castro

My first experience at the shop was great, I was on a ride about a year ago and realized I should probably invest in some good gloves after freezing my hands off, they were extremely helpful in getting me a good pair, although they were rather expensive. Id noticed how the guys face lit up when he saw the bike I was on, but didnt think much of it. I should have noted it because subsequent experiences and conversations with others have led me to realize that this is a pretentious shop who only care about how much money they perceive youll spend (and completely shortsighted in that many customers dont look like theyre going to spend a lot of money). My second experience happened when I came in on my other bike, my much less fancy commuter bike. I was barely regarded, and they were just willing enough to quickly sell me the tube I needed and get me out. Ive had two other experiences since then, I went in to get a light (no bike); the guy pointed to some on the wall (cheap low quality ones). I wasnt interested in any and then saw a case with the more high tech ones that were significantly more expensive. When I indicated that these were what I was looking for, his demeanor changed entirely and he became extremely helpful. Last time I went in, I was just browsing and had a few questions about various products Ive been curious in. Once again, I wasnt on a bike and wasnt dressed in my Sunday best - they barely helped to answer my questions and treated me like a nuisance. I was about to buy a couple of things and then it hit me, why am I still giving these people my business? Ive had other people tell me similar stories about going in on "normal people bikes" and being totally ignored. Its true, this place is awful, period. I try to "support my local bike shop," but honestly, how can I support these guys? Looks like the long drives to Spokes or buying products I cant see first from Amazon is the way to go for me.

wilbur chung

Needed a shop to install a headset and bottom bracket on new titanium frame, carbon fork. Found Contes via the web and emailed about getting work done the next day. They emailed back quickly telling me that it should be no problem (in contrast to a competing high end shop that told me I would have to wait a week or pay up for quicker service). Very pleased with shop and work done. This is a shop that enthusiasts would love. Nicely laid out, well appointed, a large stock of bikes on the floor (and hanging from ceiling), top end brands and accessories. The service area seemed very well run - entering very specific maintenance items (like chase BB threads) were all part of their automated system; no hand written notes... but a detailed print out of a half dozen specific maintanence items. I do a lot of my own basic maintanence - like truing wheels and swapping chains, but I was very glad to have had Contes do the headset and BB. Careful attention with work done - things like nice perpendicular and smooth cut of carbon steerer, a nice combination of headset spacers to give me most adjustment options possible, and using and then giving me some titanium prep (for when I installed other components to prevent galvanic corrosion from dissimilar metals). Everyone was very friendly and made a point to address you by your first name (once they knew it). Been riding for 20+ years; seen a good number of shops. Contes is definitely up there.

A Private User

We went to Contes to buy my almost 5 year old a bike. We had been to other bike shops in the area but were disappointed because all they had were schwinn bikes that were heavier than I wanted for my son. He was moving from a kettler balance bike to a real two wheel bike with pedals. We got him a conte bike and it s great. It is lighter than the same size kid bikes sold at the other bike shops in the area whch made it easier for him to ride. They totally agreed with us that he should skip training wheels and he did. The bike was a bit more expensive than a schwinn from a bike store (not a toys r us bike which are not as well made) but it is lasting longer. Our friends who spent over $200 on bikes from other bike shops are already having to replace their kids bikes because their kids have outgrown them. They had to get their kids smaller bikes at first because of the weight of the bigger bike. Contes kid bike was made with higher end, lighter materials so my son could get a good size bike. He loves it and so do we. The staff was very helpful and really know their stuff. We will be going back.

Alex Gray

Great selection of high-end bike components and bicycles, both mountain and road. If you need a part fast and youre willing to pay the extra money to get it that day go here. Being located in Bethesda the high-end shop comes with high end prices. Theyve never steered me wrong though and although I prefer to do my own bike work, theyve come through for me on a couple occasions when Ive needed a last minute fix or part immediately before race day. Customer care is hit or miss. Ive gone in before and been completely ignored and had to track someone down for help, actually that usually happens. But, when Ive asked for help theyve been respectful and are VERY knowledgeable, unlike some of the other big name shops in the area which seem to have staff who know less about bikes then I do.

Faisal Afzal

Being the closest to me (there are two others in downtown Bethesda), I walked over earlier this week. The gentlemen in the back (working on the bikes) was very helpful. I inquired about general service on my Scott S20. He advised since they are more catered towards high end bikes, it could be pricey to get it serviced there. Since HTO is out of business, I will try Big Wheel Bikes next time for service. Also, I was looking for a screw to the front end light and he gladly provided at no charge and showed me how to easily fix it myself next time. All and all, it seemed they definitely know their customer service and are upfront about charges as well. I may not go there for service or purchase of a bike but I will gladly give them business for small purchase/item.

Andrew Stobie

This place is best for apparel and accessories. The staff were relatively friendly; about as friendly but not nosey as you would expect. Id say friendly than an average Bethesda store. That said it is indeed expensive and it is not a large full service bike facility that some of the more dedicated larger stores are. It is good for a shorter trip to get some items. They do have some casual commuter wear that is work appropriate but you will pay for it. They main attraction is the performance gear. Which they have some nice stuff. All in all it is a good shop for a quick stop.

Chew Bacca

Drove thirty minutes to inquire about buying a bike from their shop. Told him the specific model I liked but was interested in looking at other options. Immediately just said we dont have that model. I asked to order it and claimed they dont order for people, then said hed call me in couple days when a new shipment. Never called me or bothered to talk with me about other models in the store. So I went to another store in Maryland and got exactly the knowledge and service expended in a specialty store.