The small, north Portland neighborhood of Kenton now has a bike shop to call its own. Kenton Cycle Repair has been open for about a month and I finally stopped in to take a peek yesterday.
Located on McClellan Street, right off Kenton’s main drag of Denver Ave, the shop is a nuts-and-bolts operation where you’ll find friendly service and a limited selection of new parts and accessories. The shop is owned by Starmichael Bowman and Rich Walker, both of whom have strong connections to Portland’s non-profit, community bike shop scene. Starmichael is a former volunteer at the Bike Farm and Rich worked at the Community Cycling Center for eight years.
In addition to parts and service, you can also find loads of older, used parts. Starmichael donated his personal collection to the shop, and Rich is a “bike nerd” who has a penchant for vintage french components. “We’re both retro-grouches,” admits Starmichael.
And if you’re looking for a custom steel rack, basic frame, or fork, Starmichael does those too. When I stopped yesterday, he showed off a sweet custom front rack he had just finished. When you stop by, be sure to check their large selection of handmade leather mud flaps.
Kenton Cycle Repair is open Wednesday through Sunday from 12 noon – 6:00pm. Learn more and stay connected via their Facebook page.
— In other Kenton news, PBOT has installed an on-street bike corral in front of Posies Cafe (8208 N. Denver). Also, you might have noticed the bike lanes on Denver have been removed. Don’t fret; it’s just a temporary measure. PBOT spokesman Dan Anderson says the bike lane markings didn’t adhere to the concrete when first installed back in 2010 so the contractor is replacing them. New ones should be in as soon as it dries up.