READERS' PICK: The Racer's Edge pro-cycling shop has an admirable selection of road and mountain bikes appropriate to a range of interests and budgets. Ordinarily pro-shops cater exclusively to clientele outside of the general bicycling milieu -- with specialized, high-end merchandise and a discriminating attitude to match, both of which can seem alienating to the casual enthusiast. Not so at Racer's Edge: the shop mantra appears to be accommodation. In the unlikely event that they don't have what you need in stock, they'll order it; and this staff of cyclists is helpful, knowledgeable and on the spot. What gives Racer's Edge its, um, edge is the excellent job they do of meeting the needs of a large cross-section of the cycling community with care and attention to detail. Well, that and the semi-annual Super Sale, a great opportunity to load up on outrageously discounted gear and garb -- everything from inner tubes to titanium frames.
READERS' POLL RUNNER-UP: The Ordinary Bike Repair Shop, 741 N. Fourth Ave. Commonly called Ordinary Bikes, this is a real neighborhood bike shop where you can wheel your damaged goods in the door and they'll fix you up and have you on your way in no time. It's located in bike-friendly territory (Fourth Avenue just south of University Boulevard) and supported mostly by the large population of self-propelled UA-area residents. But what makes Ordinary extraordinary are the little touches: the free air compressor set-up on the sidewalk; the grinning humor of the proprietors; and the open-door policy. They've also got some great deals on used bikes, and some intriguing newer models on the floor.
