In the second of our series ‘meet the dealers’ we get to know our HB dealer in the Peaks, by asking them 10 important questions…
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1) What’s your shop called and, where in the country are you?
18 bikes, named after a shonky old kids bike.
We’re in hope, a little village in North Derbyshire. Not far from Sheffield and smack bang in the midst of some of the best bits of the Peak District.
2) Who makes up your team?
Brothers Si and Matt Bowns, hot sauce legend Leaon and photo master Dan.
3) How long have you been in business and what got you into the bike trade?
We took over from the previous owner in 2006, the shop was called bespoked in those days. We’d been working for him for a few years and it all made sense - he was looking to sell and we were keen to step up!
4) What trails do you have on your doorstep?
We’re lucky to have fantastic trails right on our doorstep, with the rocky bridleways of the dark peak, the mainstay of local riding. We’re close to Sheffield, where Si is part of Ride Sheffield who help to create and maintain purpose built trails in Greno Woods, Lady Cannings and more. Somewhat spoiled for choice locally!
5) When did you first start selling our components?
Bespoked had stocked a small range of Hope components, but this was one of the changes we made when we took over - stocking more parts to appeal to the local mountain bike scene.
6) What made you want to sell the HB?
We make our own frames so there’s always that attraction to UK-made components. There’s no one who can match Hope’s stubborn dedication to doing things in house which is so impressive to see. To be able to buy a bike where so much of it is designed, manufactured and finished in house is something unique. We wanted to support that!
7) How has the HB range gone down in-store?
They’ve been really well received. The HB160 was something so different when it came out - a real draw. Now it’s joined by the HB130, we have a proper neat little range for people to demo - or just google! It’s a great showcase for hope parts too so people can see the whole range displayed on a bike.
8) Customers that have bought a HB have done so because…?
Typically, we find that customers have fallen in love with a bike before they ride it, but the demo Hope bikes have helped riders to confirm that the HB is right! We do a lot with custom bikes, but it’s great to be able to order a “stock” bike with so many custom options. Customers have definitely liked that!
9) What sets you apart from your competition?
We’re a small shop, we give a damn, and actually ride bikes - that’s sadly a diminishing thing in the bike industry! We like to create and maintain long term relationships with customers - helping fine tune and tweak their setup then maintain or repair the bike when things get tired.
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10) How can people interested in a HB get in touch with you ?
The shop is open every day other than wednesday. You can get us via the phone, email or the usual
Social media - Instagram being our favourite there.
Phone - 01433 621111
Email - info@18bikes.co.uk