VéloCity Bicycle Cooperative

Category:	Used Bicycle Shop
Address:	2111 Mt Vernon Ave, Alexandria, VA 22301
Phone:	+1 703-549-1108
Site:	velocitycoop.org
Rating:	4.8
Working:	10AM–7PM 10AM–7PM 10AM–9PM 10AM–7PM 10AM–7PM 10AM–6PM 12–5PM

Location

Photos 56

Reviews 13

Josh zirelli

I have an old Nishiki Mountain bike that was built in 1993. Ever since I moved into the city a few years ago, I have used the bike a lot more frequently than I used to, in order to get around town. I originally came into the shop on Sunday to remedy a situation where the seat post was slipping down causing the bicycle seat to slip down with it. I met the lead mechanic Russell identified the problem as a seat post binder bolt. This was a 5-minute fix. The conversation then shifted to an issue regarding the crankshaft and chain slippage. On many occasions while peddling up hills, the chain would momentarily slip off of the sprocket causing an unsafe riding situation. This was a problem caused by the rear wheel axle that had become loose and wobbly. I had bought this bike new and it appears that the original builder installed this incorrectly. The rear axel is what connects to the pedal crank arms and pedals. The axle provides attachment of the bicycle wheel and also contains the sprocket set, and the bearings on which the wheel rotates. The bike frame has threads and provides the point of attachment for the rear axle. During the original build process, the hub shell portion of the rear axel was threaded into the frame at an angle, which should have been obviously straight and flush. Also, the axle bearings were never cleaned or repacked with grease every 500 miles and this cause additional wear and tear on the rear axel. Over time this caused stress on the bearings and rear axle, causing the pedals to wobble, and the chain to slip off. Russell assessed that the rear axle needed to be replaced. The pedal crank arms needed to be removed in order to acquire access to the bolt that holds the rear axle in place. The complication occurred when the crank left crank arm would not come off. It was completely sealed with rust and corrosion. We actually had to use a cutting tool in order to get the crank arm removed. This entire process of replacing the rear axle took over two hours. He mentioned to me that they rarely encounter repair situations as complicated as my bike. We were also very lucky that they had parts in the shop that would accommodate my 20-year-old bike. He then went on to replace the rapid-fire index shifter, which controls the front derailleur. Aside from the cutting process, and the removal of some bolts, I assisted with installing new cables for this. Russell gave me the instructions about how to first remove the brake lever housing from the handlebar. Participating in this job was a great learning experience, and it was a lot of fun to get my hands greasy again. Russell was patient, extremely knowledgeable and enthusiastic about fixing my bike. Replacing the axle and re-threading the bicycle frame not the type of project for a novice mechanic, and I am really glad that Russell was able to save my bike. I walked out of there paying a small fraction that a commercial bike shop would have charged. This place is awesome and the other volunteer mechanics that work there are top notch! It’s also a cool concept that you get the opportunity to help out with the fix. I wish all bike shops could be as great as the Velocity Bike Co-op, and I would definitely recommend this bike shop to anyone in the DC area. The guys who work there are people who ride bikes and know how to take care of them. If you should need a decent remanufactured bike, or perhaps get your bike going again, Russell will take care of you.

Frank Power

I had a great experience at this shop, I brought a old 2000 TREK up to get refreshed and while not really concerned with cost, the owner was hyper aware of what money I was spending. I normally go to Spokes, but I was very happy with the experience and the guy got me in and out in 2 hours. Same day, We need to direct traffic here, its a good bike shop. Local DC, this is a good bike shop!!

andrew lees

helpful staff, just enough help to encourage you to repair and learn how to problem solve, and fix your own bike. not intrusive and has a good work life ballance, I would not be too surprised to see a "gone fishing" sign on the door. just to clarify, I have not seen the sign, just that it is not a clock watching, soleless shell of an establishment. keep up the good work.

Emily Smith

Super awesome . Defiintely come here for whatever you need. I travelled from AU to this place for an uncommon part because none of the other shops had it. This one did! I also ended up staying to finish building my bike. Really nice people/company and super affordable all around. .

Frank Mikolajczak

If you are looking for a unique and typically affordable bike, this is a cool spot to check out. Also, they give tax write-off for donating old unused bikes, parts and accessories. So if you have something just sitting in your garage, drop it off for somebody to actually use.

Kate Marsh

Russell really helped me out no questions asked - no frills, extremely affordable, with access to plenty of supplies, tools, and expert advice. I highly recommend for an easy experience with the added bonus of learning a bit about your bike at the same time.

Andrew Logan

Velocity is my new favorite bike shop! Christian was a great help in measuring and selecting parts for my bike build and Ron and Mike at the Wednesday night tune-ups patiently tutored me! A fantastic part to the Del Ray community.

Kelsey Mire

Excellent experience. Fast, affordable service with do-it-yourself tips as he worked on my bike. Great casual, professional atmosphere. Definitely calling this our go-to bike shop.

Shankar Kulumani

Great bike shop. They have tons of used parts for extremely cheap. Everyone there is helpful for cyclists of all skill levels. The place to go for your old or classic bike!

Daniel Eling

Knowledgeable staff, and a mission to teach you to care for your bike, not just fix it for you. Love it.

Robin churn

Thank you Russell for showing me how to change a tire and keeping the correct amount of tire pressure.

Michael Bostick

There needs to be more places like this, very friendly and helpful people!

James Hobson

I can sum up my experience in two words: "Thank You!"