Local

The Best Orange County Bike Shops

A list of the O.C.'s best and favorite local bike shops

From Kimberlee Morrison, former About.com Guide

There are hundreds of miles of on- and off-road bike paths throughout Orange County, and in beach communities especially, bicycling has become a favorite form of recreation. Not only is bicycling a low-cost and environmentally friendly way to commute, it's also a great way to get some exercise. Whether you're looking for a new bike or bicycle parts, to get your bicycle serviced, or simply want to become part of the larger cycling community, the likelihood is that there's a bike shop in the O.C. that has exactly what you need. Here is a list of some of Orange County's best bike shops.

Jax Bicycle Center

Jax is one of the first names that come to mind when people think of bike shops in Southern California. Not only does Jax carry a wide selection of beach cruisers, road and commuter bicycles, for men, women and kids, it is also known for its great service. Most will agree that Jax is more than just a bike shop; it is a bicycle community education center as well. And with locations in Irvine, Alisa Viejo, Huntington Beach, and Yorba Linda, it seems there’s always a Jax Bicycle Center nearby.

Rock N' Road Cyclery

Voted one of the best bike shops in the O.C. Register’s “Best of O.C.” reader poll (second to Jax), Rock N’ Road Cyclery caters to intermediate and advanced cyclists, and stocks a wide selection of high-end road bikes. Rock N’ Road's reported claim to fame is it's computerized bicycle-fitting system that analyzes each rider’s riding style. RNR also offers weekly road rides from and riding clubs, including one exclusively for women.

Surf City Cyclery

Surf City Cyclery is a bike shop for bicycling enthusiasts, with a heavy bent on Specialized Bikes. This focus on Specialized bikes is has it’s benefits as well as downfalls. If you’re looking for a serious road bike -- with a price tag to match -- SCC has a wide selection of high end, road and race bikes, Specialized branded clothing and accessories, and a knowledgeable staff who can help you assess your needs. However, if you’re in the market for anything basic (e.g.: a commuter bike or standard bike maintenance), you might want to go elsewhere.

The Path Bike Shop

The Path ranks high in user reviews as one of the best bike shops in Orange County, for its customer service. Novice riders appreciate being taken seriously, while cycling veterans appreciate the staff’s depth of knowledge. In fact, the Tustin-based bike shop prides itself on its large stock of bicycles and bicycle components, and its staff of bicycle experts. The Path also sponsors SHARE Mountain Bike Club, a bicycle advocacy group that provides educational resources and hosts group rides and other cycling related events.

Performance Bikes

Performance Bikes is becoming known as a bicycle super-store, with a huge selection of mountain, cruiser and BMX style bikes. With a philosophy to fit the right frame for every rider, Performance Bikes is a great place for novice riders and veteran riders alike to get a custom fitted bike. Since their goal is that you get the right bike at the best price, Performance Bikes offer a 100 percent satisfaction and a low price guarantee.

Coast City Cruisers

This shop is tucked away near the Huntington Beach Sports Complex and has recently become known as a go-to place to get a great beach cruiser and personalized service. Nothing fancy here, the owners have a simple bicycle match-making philosophy that the best way to find the right bike is to go for a ride. CCC offers a wide selection of beach cruisers including Electra and Phat Tire brands, and custom bike fittings, to ensure the perfect bike-rider match.

Bicycle Discovery

Bicycle Discovery won me over with its lack of pretense. This is a place where the staff seems to breathe bicycle love. Go to Bicycle Discovery if you’re looking a good commuter bike, an attentive sales experience and to get parts for doing at-home bike maintenance. Bicycle Discovery stands out for its mom-and-pop appeal and excellent service center.