Community gears up for new bike hub

Rob Kearney at The Shed with fellow cyclist James Evans.

MANY cyclists in the Seventeen Mile Rocks area regard Rob Kearney as a bicycle guru.

His knowledge of cycling has seen him manage Australian Cycle Skills programs for the past two years.

But, unlike other gurus, you don't have to pedal to a remote mountain to seek out his wisdom.

Instead, you can visit him at The Shed.

In keeping with the Cycle Skills motto of ‘learn, ride and enjoy', Mr Kearney has established a venue that serves as a hub for all things cycling.

“It's a place for cyclists of all ages and skill levels,” he said.

Mr Kearney said The Shed would provide cycle education, purchasing, full servicing, fitting and eventually group rides, too.

“We even have fully equipped benches people can rent to learn important bicycle maintenance under the guidance of our qualified mechanics,” he said. “As a result they can save money fixing their bikes.”

The venue incorporates The Bikery, an area for guests to enjoy coffee and refreshments.

“I also wanted to create a place where people can come, relax, talk with other cyclists or watch cycling on the television,” he said.

“As a cyclist myself, I know how out of place you can feel sitting at a coffee shop at 2pm, dressed in your lycra bike suit.”

Mr Kearney said the aim of the endeavour was to get more people interested and enthusiastic about cycling.

“Everyone has given us very positive feedback,” he said. “We can't believe that no one has explored this concept before.”

Cycle Skills' Shed is open seven days a week.

For more information visit www.cycleskills.com.au