The History of the Shop

The Ride Bicycle Shop in Fairfield, Iowa, has a cool backstory that’s rooted in the heart of the local cycling community. Before it became The Ride, it was known as AJ’s Bicycle Shop, a trusted spot for bike repairs and sales in Fairfield since 1988.

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Back in 2001, a young cycling enthusiast named Mark Smith joined AJ’s team. He started out learning the ropes as a mechanic and customer service rep, but it wasn’t long before he became a fixture at the shop, known for his friendly demeanor and knack for fixing bikes. For nearly 20 years, Mark poured his energy into the shop, helping countless locals get rolling on two wheels.

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In January 2020, Mark took the leap from employee to owner. He purchased the shop from AJ and decided to give it a fresh start, renaming it The Ride. The new name symbolized a continuation of the shop’s legacy, while also embracing Mark’s vision of creating a hub for all things cycling.

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Since then, The Ride has become more than just a bike shop—it’s a community space. With weekly group rides, sponsorships for local events, and a commitment to supporting cyclists of all levels, The Ride is a place where Fairfield’s biking enthusiasts come together.

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Whether you’re looking for a new bike, need a quick tune-up, or just want to chat about cycling adventures, The Ride has you covered. It’s all about keeping Fairfield rolling, one bike at a time.