Best bicycle shop in LA?

October 4, 2007 11:56 PM

Looking for a friendly bike shop in LA to pick up a Cruiser style bicycle to ship back to Australia.

I've had my eye on the Shwinn Black Panther for ages now and thought to take the opportunity while visiting LA next week to pick one up before returning home to Australia.

I know there may be some more independent bike manufacturers out there, so I am open to suggestions for other brands, however the Panther ride was pretty sweet (although I am a push-bike noob)

Can anybody recommend a decent shop in the area with friendly service? It needs to be boxed up so I can take it on the plane.

Thanks!

posted by LongDrive to sports, hobbies, & recreation (5 comments total)

Disclaimer: I'm not a bike guy. I did notice some cruiser bikes here: at REI sports although it's definitely more of a camping supply store. Also, this one has been recommended to me, but I can't personally recommend.
posted by sharkfu at 8:13 AM on October 5, 2007

There's a booth at the Orange County Swap Meet that does nothing but sell Beach Crusier style bikes. It's where my wife and I bought ours.
posted by The Gooch at 8:54 AM on October 5, 2007

I know it's OC, but The Path in Tustin packed up a friends bike for shipment cross-country. Not sure of the cost, or whether they ship internationally though.
posted by killy willy at 9:08 AM on October 5, 2007

whoops. should read the question more carefully next time. my recommendation was not exactly what you're looking for.
posted by killy willy at 9:09 AM on October 5, 2007

Wheel World in Culver City is more geared toward mountain and road bikes, so I'm not sure if they'd have cruisers.

If you're not too tied to the Scwinn Black Panther, Helen's (one in Westwood and one in Santa Monica) has Electra cruisers. A lot of people seem to have them around here and I've heard they're fairly sturdy.
posted by nakedsushi at 3:19 PM on October 5, 2007