Come on in. Browse. Ask questions. Get Advice. Play.
That’s the business philosophy of Mike Hale, owner of Mike’s Hike & Bike in Richmond, Kentucky. The shop provides all gear for backpacking, cycling, kayaking and climbing, as well as repairs, rentals, recommendations, and more.
Opened in 2007 on Main Street, Hale said excellent customer service is the most important part of he and his staff’s job, helping customers to find the best piece of gear to fill their unique particular needs.
“When you rely on your equipment and your wits to keep you happy, safe, and reasonably comfortable, you need the best that you can get. This doesn’t mean that you have to have the most expensive stuff, just the most functional,” Hale said.
Everything in the store has been selected for its function – as well as affordability, rather than its brand name. Regarding their backpacking items, from shelter, safety, cooking or navigating, Hale said, “If it is heavy, bulky, cheap, or inordinately expensive, you won’t find it here.”
Mike’s has a try-it-before-you-buy-it policy. He and his staff encourage customers to try out the items, to come and set up the tents, start the stoves, ride bikes, and carry the backpacks.
“We like gear as much as you do, and we love playing with all of it,” Hale said.
With several certified technicians, their shop offers major and minor repairs for any brand of bicycle, and they strive for very reasonable rates. They also sell a wide variety of new and used bikes, as well as parts and accessories. They offer special orders at no extra charge and no obligation to purchase the item after it comes in if it is not what the person needs.
One of their goals is to foster a strong cycling community in the Richmond area. They offer group rides and classes, free use of tools and repair stand space for DIY repairs, and bike rentals for $25-30 per day. They lead a standing weekly bike ride on Saturdays for beginners, and a Sunday bike ride of 35+ miles for experienced riders. In the winter, they use Zwift virtual training for indoor bike rides. From right there inside the shop, you can climb volcanoes, or ride your bike in New York City during the “Everything Bagel” ride.
In addition to whitewater boats, race boats, and boat accessories, they also sell and rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for fishing or recreation use. Their shop also features climbing gear and maps of all kinds.
Their staff loves recommending trails, outdoor tips, and sharing stories. They use social media and their website to build community and fun, sharing videos of new merchandise, pictures from group rides, or local tips. You can also find them participating in a variety of events in Richmond, like the annual parades.
The Mountain Association is proud to provide affordable financing for Mike’s Hike & Bike. For more information on the business, please visit here.
Note: During COVID-19, Mike’s Hike and Bike is offering a number of safe options for shopping. They are also leading social distancing bike rides each week, and continue to offer bike repairs on a scheduled basis.
