Winning bidder will receive a $50 gift certificate for International Bicycle of Allston and Newton.

Review of International Bicycle Shop:

"So I previously wrote a great review of a 'rival' bike shop. I still very much like that bike shop, and I did purchase by bike there (spending WAY to much money)

But I have started going to International, and am happy I did.
I first went to International due to its convenience. I switched to a new Gym in December, and I pass International on the way home. So it isnt out of the way.

(Tip for those with cars, there is a small parking lot in the back, just drive through Budget rental)

Since then, I have purchased a multitude of random parts, Including a new fancy wheelset,  and helped three friends buy bikes there too. The owner, Harold, is almost always there, and is helpful and remembers you. the staff remembers you and are friendly.

A couple great examples of the staff, how they help, remember you, and gain loyalty.

1. After having my bike tuned up (and now keep in mind, I have always done stuff myself to my bikes. I used to be a shop rat and bike mechanic, but they had a deal where if you got a tune up - $70 - you saved 20% off Accessories.. well, thats $260 off my $1300 wheelset - so it was a good deal!), I still had an issue. I brought it back, they found the issue, fixed it, no cost. The service you expect

2. I lost two screws out of the cleat for my shoe. I went in, they found two, handed them to me, no charge.

3. I do a 7 day, 550+ mile charity bike ride every year. I went in and talked to harold about buying tubes for the ride support (a box of 50), told him what for, etc. He gave them to me for wholesale (or actually even below I think) to help out the cause.  They do a LOT for fundraising and Charity - Especially PanMass challenge and LiveStrong, which I support a lot!

It reminds me a lot of the bike shops I used to work in out in Western MA. Friendly, they remember you, and if you are loyal, they help you out.

Dont go in asking for huge discounts, expecting the world, and never go back again. They are there to help, but also to run a business and make money.

The selection of the shop is very good, although not as extensive as some others.  But this is ok, as they have most stuff people need. The only times I have had to special order things were random things (like new click straps for my cycling shoes).  They have low end to high end, and everything in between.  They do have a large inventory of Trek bikes, which is great if you are a trek fan (I am). They also have a lot of more unique things, especially in clothing, Helmets, etc (catering a little bit to the Allston crowd doesnt hurt.)

Dont judge the place by looking at it (the steel gates that come down at closing), or by the employees (yes, they may be tattooed, pierced, and wear big glasses - but doesnt make them bad people - they are knowledgeable, nice, and helpful).

Go in, talk to them, tell you what you need and would like, and they will help.

if you are in the area, there is no better choice for a bike shop."

Link is www.internationalbike.com