TUCSON, AZ (BRAIN) — Lifelong cyclist Steve Morganstern is bringing Scottsdale’s Bicycle Ranch south to Tucson. The new store, located at the intersection of Oracle and Ina Roads in northwest Tucson, is set to open its doors on Saturday.
Bicycle Ranch Tucson opens as both a franchise and second location for the well-known shop in Scottsdale. “We are an extension of the Scottsdale Bicycle Ranch,” said Morganstern. “It’s set up essentially as a franchise and naming rights agreement.”
Morganstern said he wanted to open a bike shop in Tucson, but didn’t necessarily want to go it alone. “I wanted the name recognition associated with Bicycle Ranch, and I also wanted to learn from the experience of that store too, because it’s had such success,” he said.
With a background in sales, marketing and customer service, including a stint in the auto industry, opening a bike shop was a way for Morganstern to pursue his passion for cycling while creating something that would benefit his community.
“I want Bicycle Ranch Tucson to provide great customer service, and I saw an opportunity in this part of the city,” he said. “Service is important us here, and whether it’s a $500 bike or a $15,000 road bike, we will treat our customer’s bikes like it’s their baby.”
The 3,020-square-foot location includes a full-service repair department located at the front of the store. “This layout is unique in that it’s open air and not shoved in the back corner,” said Morganstern. “I like it because it makes mechanics more accessible and more approachable. People can ask questions, and see their bike being worked on. And it helps us reduce the work force and make things more efficient.”
Bicycle Ranch of Tucson will carry Giant and Cannondale, and Morganstern’s goal is to make the shop comfortable for all levels of riders. “We want this to be a store where folks will hopefully come in and hang out, and talk about bikes,” he said. “Or to meet up for group rides.”
A grand opening celebration will be held on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m, with raffles, giveaways, food and refreshments, along with an opening day sale.
