29-30 Argyle Place, Edinburgh, 0131 228 8820
www.thebicycleworks.co.ukThis is the place to go in Edinburgh with any cycle-related mechanical query. You'll get great service and advice and will be spa
red the patronising tech-talk often espoused by specialist mechanics. Their labour charges are also around half the cost charged by some other shops.
2 BICYCLE WORKS TRIATHLON CENTRE
57-59 South Clerk Street, Edinburgh, 0131 662 8777
www.thebicycleworks.co.uk Sister shop to the repair store, Scotland's first-ever dedicated triathlon centre caters for the needs of cyclists, runners and swimmers. However, you don't have to enjoy all three disciplines to benefit, and the centre really is a place for the cycling enthusiast seeking something shiny and exclusive.
3 EDINBURGH BICYCLE CO-OPERATIVE
8 Alvanley Tce, Whitehouse Loan, Edinburgh, 0131 228 3565, also at 458-64 George Street, Aberdeen, 01224 632 994
www.edinburghbicycle.comThe Co-op, as most regulars know it, has three decades' experience of servicing Scotland's cyclists. What began as a single Edinburgh shop is now a UK-wide venture, with shops in Aberdeen, Leeds, Manchester and Newcastle, while a comprehensive online store has usurped its old catalogue mail-order service.
4 THE HUB
Glentress Forest, Peebles, 01721 721 736
www.thehubintheforest.co.ukThe Hub is at the coal face of mountain biking, at the 7-Stanes project, which boasts the best purpose-built trails in the UK. The novice can come sans steed and hire a bike, while experts come along for spares, advice, retail therapy and even to borrow the tools to get them back on the black.
5 DALES CYCLES
150 Dobbies Loan, Glasgow, 0845 125 9423,
www.dalescycles.comDales is not only the west's must-visit cycle shop but has sufficient reputation to attract custom from as far afield as Shetland. It's the sheer size and diversity of the range on offer that draws most. Row after row of shiny bicycles cater from the smallest need to the greatest greed. Pop in for a basic kid's first bike - like the Raleigh Molly at £29.99 complete with stabilisers - or the latest Scott Addict Ultralight road racer, a shade under £7,000.
