Another bike-based business has set up shop on the streets of Portland. Rolling Wrench, “Portland’s bike shop on wheels,” is a mobile bicycle repair business and brainchild of Tim Ennis. Tim is a veteran of several bike shops whose independent streak left him wanting to go out on his own.
“I’ve worked for various bike shops over the years, and finally got fed up with trying to do something I love on someone else’s terms,” he told me via email this morning.
Tim opened Rolling Wrench in Boston last May and says it was a huge success. He moved to Portland over the winter (to be closer to family), and hoped to open a similar business in the spring. It took a bit longer than he planned to get things rolling; but he opened for business this week and says things are going great so far.
Tim pulls a huge trailer behind his bike that turns into a shop table and cash register. He sets up a repair stand, hangs his sign, and he’s ready to go. The business is entirely pedal-powered. He’s based in southeast but plans to pedal and serve the entire city. Tim constantly updates a Google Map on his website to let folks know where he is and he offers on-call service.
If your company has a few employees who need their bikes tuned up, you can call Tim. “We specialize in on-site maintenance and repairs at your home, office or anywhere else that is convenient for you,” he says. Rolling Wrench offers a full suite of services, from a $25 single speed tune up to $150 for a comprehensive overhaul. He can also show up to your place and box your bike for shipping for just $50.
Here’s more from the Rolling Wrench website:
“We believe that there is a better alternative to the patchy service and limited hours of brick-and-mortar bike shops, and that we provide it at a competitive price, in a fun, healthy and environmentally responsible manner. Our personal touch makes all the difference, with mechanics who are talented and passionate about bikes. Let us show you that there’s a better way!”
You can fill out a web form to make a service appointment or call Tim and his partner Elizabeth Zdunich at (503) 447-6882 or via email at info@rolling-wrench.com.
Well, I would say insulting all the many great local shops for their “patchy service” is a great way to start a business. Plus, I wish him luck in a business model that has already failed for at least 2 other individuals.
Oh hey! I saw you rolling by tonight blasting Queen! Made me smile. Rock on, brother.
Congrats Tim! So great
hope to see you around
roll on!
Should carry a loaner/rental bike for commuters with serious breakdowns.
Last time I checked, the area shown in this photo was managed by Portland Parks & Rec, who have some strict requirements for “vending” in their spaces. I hope Mr Ennis has secured the proper permit for selling his services on city property.