PARK RIDGE, Ill. (BRAIN) — Wheel & Sprocket opened its third Chicago area store last week and plans a grand opening event this weekend at the new Park Ridge location.
Park Ridge's grand opening is Friday-Sunday and will have bike organizations in attendance and feature local ride groups, bike vendors, and giveaways.
It is Wheel & Sprocket's 11th store since opening in 1973 in Hales Corners, Wisconsin. Park Ridge and the nearby Des Plaines and Mount Prospect suburbs haven't had a local bike shop for the past three years.
The new location is in the Village Green Shopping Center, 672 Northwest Highway. It is expected to be one of Trek's top retailers and also carries Electra, Giant, Liv, Salsa, Surly, and All-City brands. The location also will carry specialty bikes, including cargo, trikes, and e-bikes. Park Ridge also will feature a full service department.
"We consider our Park Ridge store an important anchor in supporting the northwest region's growing biking community," said Noel Kegel, Wheel & Sprocket president and owner, in a news release. "We are more than a bike shop and have already connected with community leaders, residents, and organizations before the store officially opens to become immediately involved in supporting riders and developing better biking infrastructure for the area. Park Ridge, in particular, has made great strides to be a more bike-friendly community, and we see our shop adding to its vibrancy."
A ceremonial "bike chain" cutting with public, business, and community leaders is scheduled for Thursday at 5 p.m. CDT.
"We have seen such a growth in cycling over the last couple of years, and I have consistently heard people voice their desire for a local option for their cycling needs," said Park Ridge Mayor Marty Maloney. "The timing of Wheel & Sprocket selecting Park Ridge is just perfect, and I look forward to them being a part of our community for years to come."
