People looking for a way to exercise, get fit and have fun with their families are likely to find Suncoast Trailside Bicycles a welcome alternative.
With an inventory ranging from the basic steel-framed Beach Cruiser to custom built and painted BMX racers, the Odessa shop seeks to offer something for everyone. The proximity to the Land O' Lakes area and the Suncoast Parkway Trail gives it the prime location to serve the community, said Geoff Lanier, owner. The shop is just across the street from the Suncoast Parkway's trailhead on State Road 54.
"We want to make this a destination," said Lanier. "Not just a retail store."
To make sure the shop caters to its customers and the community, Lanier sponsors a number of activities, including cycling, BMX and triathlon teams. The store also sponsors its own rides.
Lanier and his staff also work to make sure customers are comfortable while they're in the shop.
"We have a full repair and assembly center with a lounge area so you can talk with the mechanics and watch what is going on with your bike," Lanier said.
Supporting an "open kitchen" policy Lanier and his employees want to form relationships with their fellow cyclists. "We strive on overachieving for people," said Lanier.
Suncoast staff members also take the time to stress safety to all their customers, he said. "We see people getting hurt all the time on trails because they were not being safe and wearing their helmet," added Lanier.
When asked about his experience with fellow cyclists at Suncoast Brian Mattillo, a mechanic at the shop, said: "Most of our customers are pretty cool; it's an easy job to just talk to people while doing a repair."
Looking around for a bicycle at Suncoast Tom McCabe and his two sons were able to test out bikes and see how they would work out for them.
"It's a nice shop," said McCabe. "I like it."
To find out more about Suncoast Trailside Bicycles, visit stsbikes.com. The store is located at 16242 State Road 54, just past the Suncoast Parkway. It's open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call 813-920-2225.
