New Bike Shops Embody Detroit's Unique Spin on Cycling

The Motor City is enjoying a cycling renaissance in 2015, with an avalanche of bike-friendly development underway. Midtown and Jefferson-Chalmers are pushing bike-friendly streets, the RiverWalk installed public repair stations, and the Dequindre Cut should extend to Eastern Market within a few months. Even Slow Roll, Detroit's most iPad-friendly cycling event, is getting a new headquarters in the Brewster-Wheeler remod.
Capitalizing on the enthusiasm, a wave of bike-related retail is in the works. In the last week alone, two new bike shops —Detroit Bikes and Metropolis Cycles—have opened downtown and in Corktown. Both offer bikes and accessories, but each has a distinct personality and focus.
(Update: We're reminded that Motorless City opens in Eastern Market on Saturday. So three shops in two weeks. )

↑ Detroit Bikes
1216 Griswold Street - Capitol Park
With antique display cases and ruby red wallpaper, Detroit Bikes' 1,200-square-foot storefront was inspired by the historic bike shops that once dotted Detroit. The design fits the location inside the historic Griswold Building, now home to the high-end Albert Apartments. Founded in 2011, Detroit Bikes has a factory on the west side and offers two different models. [Website]

↑ Metropolis Cycles
2117 Michigan Avenue - Corktown
Metropolis opened for the first time on Friday in what used to be a drab, unoccupied building across from Slows. Months of renovation added brick walls and punched out windows along Michigan Avenue, resulting in a sunny, loft-like retail space. Metropolis offers new commuter bikes with a wide price range, alongside repair services and accessories. [Website]