The largest cycling store in Melbourne’s CBD opened on Thursday night as a result of a partnership between cycling brand Trek and Melbourne-based CBD cycling retail outfit, Cycles Galleria.
The 465 square metre flagship store at the QV building is expected to serve over 3000 cycling enthusiasts in its first month of business.
Pro-cyclists and Target Trek team riders James Butler and Vaughan Bowman, Bicycle Network 3 Peaks Pro team members Mark Guirguis and Kevin Russell and Bicycle Network’s Ben Douglas and Keith Leonard and Cameron Clamp officially opened the store at a VIP opening event, whilst the 100th Tour de France cycling race – the world’s largest annual sporting event – aired.
The opening featured pro-cyclists and guests racing on virtual bikes. Over 200 VIP customers and cycling enthusiasts attended. Trek demonstrated its highly popular customisation initiative Project One where cyclists fit out their dream bike by selecting the model, fit, styling and components.
Cycles Galleria founder, 31-year-old Robin Pearce, said Victoria is the largest cycling market in Australia largely due to an increase in government and private investments in infrastructure and resources as well as increased awareness of the health benefits, rising petrol prices and traffic congestion.
“Last year around 4 million Australians were riding bikes and around 1.6 million use their bike for transport. Victorians are serious about cycling and it’s great to see local councils supporting cycling as both a sport and a sustainable transport option,” Mr Pearce said.
“We have a very loyal customer base and many cyclists own more than one bike choosing different models for recreation, sport and everyday use. Our partnership with global brand Trek gives us the opportunity to provide inner city Melbournians with a one-stop-shop for all their cycling needs. We even have an in-store cycling mechanic workshop.
“Melbourne’s cycling community is tight-knit and are watching the 100th Tour de France where Trek’s cyclists Fabian Cancellara, Jan Rakelants, Jens Voight and Andy Schleck are racing, so we’re excited to celebrate our store opening at the same time the world’s largest sporting race is happening across the globe.”
Cycles Galleria, Artemis Lane, QV Building, Melbourne
Image credits: Peter Bongiorno
