On September 30, Dave Schuhlein of Idealbikes (
1678 Barrington Street, 444-7433) sold his store. The legendary bike shop, started on Agricola Street in 2003, is now owned by Troy MacQuarrie and Matt Canning, who Schuhlein says have a background in construction.
“They’re completely revamping the store,” says Schuhlein, who agreed to stay on as acting manager until the end of October, to make sure the details of distribution and accounts were well-handled in the exchange. “They’re going to corner the BMX market,” he says, with plans to bring in apparel, too. “They have much deeper pockets than I did.”
Customers can expect a new look to the store, and some new brands—including GT and Yeti—though most of the knowledgeable staff will stay on, and Idealbikes will continue to offer the brands its known for as well as competitive retail, rental and repair services.
And what of Dave?
“I don’t like to be cold,” he says. “This climate is cold for six-to-nine months of the year.” So he’s got a work visa and a one-way ticket to New Zealand. If people would like to wish Schuhlein well on his new adventures—and thank him for years of bicycle expertise—bring a fizzy beverage or two ’round the store Friday, October 28 after 6pm, where there’ll be a goodbye party.
This article appears in Oct 20-26, 2011.
A message received at The Coast from Dave Schuhlein for his customers:
“I guess what I would like to say about my departure is that I have really enjoyed creating the legacy of Idealbikes. It has been an honor to maintain the bikes of Halifax and to contribute to the sustainable transportation effort. The shop has been a rewarding, challenging experience and everyone who has helped along has had a blast, either working here or frequenting as a customer. Thank you for your support! I’m off to New Zealand to find a community of people in involved with sustainable living, do some private chef work and explore.”