Bike Matters rings in first birthday

TORQUAY’S only bike shop, Bike Matters, celebrates its first birthday this week.

Torquay had lasted five years without a bike shop before Bike Matters was introduced after the 2012 closure of TCF.

Industry representatives have noted that Torquay was one of the largest communities in Australia without a bike shop and now with this void being filled, it’s no surprise that Bike Matters has been a great success. Owner of Bike Matters Scott Nicholas said the motivation for opening Bike Matters was the family-friendly environment Torquay provided, combined with a passion for exploring the Surf Coast by bike.

“I’m really passionate about creating welcoming spaces that are not driven by selling products. Providing people with information, helpfulness and a great overall experience are the most important things to me,” Scott said.

Beyond the motivation for opening Torquay’s only bike shop, Scott said his commitment to being involved in the community is everything for his shop.

“We are a hub of all things cycling on the Surf Coast. Yes, we sell bikes of all types – kids’ bikes, family bikes, high end bikes, as well as parts and accessories – not to mention having a full service workshop. However, giving back to the community is equally important to selling anything,” he said.

“We recently started a women’s road ride on Saturday morning’s at 7am starting from the shop.

“We’ll also be hosting a free beginner’s mechanics course on Wednesday November 29 at 5:30pm at Ocean Grind in the Torquay industrial estate. Additionally, we’re in the final phases of completing a free local trail map that outlines all of our great terrain we have on offer on the Surf Coast.”

Bike Matters offers lay-by for kids Christmas bikes starting at $200 – not to mention a full service workshop headed by Peter Arch, who has over 10 years’ experience in some of Melbourne’s largest and best bike shops.

Bike Matters is open six days a week, Monday-Friday 10am-6pm, (closing 5.30pm on Wednesdays) and Saturday 10am-4pm. Bike Matters is located at 6B Baines Crescent, across from Mitre 10 or phone 5261 7216 for more information.