Universal Cycles opens in Northwest

Inside the new Universal Cycles

[Retail Manager, Josh Sweet]

Universal Cycles has set up shop in Northwest Portland. The company was founded about 10 years ago as an online retailer based in San Francisco and online sales remain a large part of their business today. They’ve been in Portland for 5 years, but their previous storefront was just a tiny place out near the Airport.

On Saturday, I poked my head into their new space on NW 18th and Thurman. Wow. It’s a beautiful and spacious store (more photos here) that will add exciting new energy to the bike scene. The ceilings are high, there’s a ton of wood and of course lots of bike gear filling the aisles. They’re still setting things up but they’re open for business and welcoming customers (old and new) with a smile.

Inside the new Universal Cycles

[The shop cat, Ham]

I met Retailer Manager Josh Sweet and he seemed thrilled with the new store and the future. He said they’re on “a 5-year plan” and they hope to grow with the booming neighborhood. As for bikes, Josh said they’ll be selling Surly, Salsa, Turner, Yeti, and they also carry Look road bikes and Fort cyclocross frames.

The shop’s open Monday-Friday from 10-6, so stop in and say hi to Josh…and don’t forget to pet the shop cat, Ham.

Jonathan Maus (Publisher/Editor)

Jonathan Maus (Publisher/Editor)

Founder of BikePortland (in 2005). Father of three. North Portlander. Basketball lover. Car owner and driver. If you have questions or feedback about this site or my work, feel free to contact me at @jonathan_maus on Twitter, via email at maus.jonathan@gmail.com, or phone/text at 503-706-8804. Also, if you read and appreciate this site, please become a supporter.

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vj
18 years ago

Not enough places have shop cats! I can’t wait to check them out.

Tim
18 years ago

Josh “Sweet” (not Street) has many years of mountain bike experience giving him a wealth of knowledge. I know that prior to his position with Universal, he’s spent time at a local frame manufacturing facility as a master machinist, raced as a pro sponsored downhill racer, and taught BMX skills to young racers.

I tell anyone who’s looking for the best deals to go see the guys at Universal Cycles.

Caroline
18 years ago

I like Universal. Nice guys!

Donna Tocci
18 years ago

Congratulations on the new shop!
Ham is just gorgeous!

Paul Steckler
Paul Steckler
18 years ago

I bought a cassette and brake pads from Universal via the Web a couple of weeks ago. I biked to the new store on the way to work and picked up the items — no shipping charges!

This may become my preferred mode of buying parts.