Mountain biker? Triathlete? Road rider or casual commuter? Whatever the reason you take to two wheels, these Leaside retailers have you covered. Independently-owned, all three shops are founded by people who have transformed their passion for cycling into successful businesses:
Bateman’s Trail Shop
49 Laird Dr. https://batemansbikeco.com/
The cardinal rule of retailing – location, location, location – governed Robert Bateman’s decision to open a mountain bike-focused trail shop in 2022. Located not far from the Don Valley’s world-class mountain biking trails, the shop has quickly become a community hub for those who love the rougher terrain of trail rides. Bateman’s Bike Company was looking to expand, and Robert, a mountain bike enthusiast, saw a unique opportunity in Leaside to share his passion for off-road riding.
“Our shop is a first for the GTA – we have the largest selection of mountain bikes in Canada, plus all the accessories, apparel and gear you might need,” explains Rob. You’ll also find a full-service tune-up and repair shop staffed by expert mechanics.
As sales manager Austin Floyd points out, “Because of our large inventory, we’re likely to have your size in stock, so you can try the bike out for fit and performance right here.”
Whether you are new to mountain biking or a trail-riding enthusiast, Bateman’s has a complete selection for adults, youth and kids and will set you up with the right bike. For those who are curious, they offer rentals to let you give mountain biking a try.
Insider tips:
- -Follow https://www.instagram.com/batemansbikeco on Instagram for upcoming group rides.
- -Check out their youth mountain-biking camp at https://campdongrom.com/.
BikeDepot
1588 Bayview Ave. https://www.bikedepot.com/
Owner Aarif Suleman grew up in a bike shop. His father owned Bloor Cycles, where a 10-year-old Aarif would hang out and help out. After finishing business school, Aarif launched his own bike shop in Thornhill. Fast forward to 2024, and BikeDepot now numbers four locations in the GTA, with the store on Bayview in Leaside the latest to open. BikeDepot’s motto is “two wheels, one love,” and they can outfit anyone who loves to bike, with commuter, cargo, mountain, gravel and road bikes – person-powered or pedal assist e-bikes, as well as bikes for kids. As Aarif explains, “Everyone has felt a sense of joy cycling. Through our products and services, that’s what we aim to deliver.”
Store manager Chazz Pitts says that the store caters to a wide range of customers – serious cyclists, year-round commuters and families – for equipment, accessories and clothing as well as tune-ups and repairs. “We have everything to outfit the whole family. And with five women on staff, we can give special attention to the needs of women and girls.”
Both Aarif and Chazz like the vibrancy of Bayview as well as the foot and bike traffic that comes right to their door.
Insider tips:
- -The largest dealer of specialized bikes in Canada, including electric/cargo options.
- -Follow https://www.instagram.com/bikedepot on Instagram for upcoming clinics, rides and events.
Enduro Sport
812 Eglinton Ave. East https://endurosport.com/
Enduro Sport has been in the business of serving triathletes and performance cyclists for nearly 30 years but its origins were humble. Owner Dan Rishworth started the business out of his parent’s basement as a mail-order source of triathlete gear when he was in university. According to Dan, “If you were a triathlete at the time, what you needed to compete was not readily available in Canada.” It proved to be a profitable niche market and soon Dan opened a store near Leslie and York Mills.
Most people hear “triathlon” and think “Ironman,” but the sport of swimming, cycling and running set distances has grown substantially with fun, low-key, accessible events for all ages in communities across Ontario. When Dan started looking for a main street space for this growing market, Leaside made perfect sense. “There was a lot of active endurance athletes in the area as well as a number of biking, running and swimming enthusiasts,” he says. Serving this community requires expert knowledge and continuity of service for fitting and repairs. “Our long-time staff have the expertise to help people improve their experience and performance, whether they are just starting out or a seasoned pro.”
Insider tips:
- -Consignment swap sale held spring and fall. Pre-owned equipment online.
- -Exclusive retailer for Frog kids’ bikes – lightweight and easy to master.
- -Plenty of road and gravel bike options for all levels.
Follow Enduro Sport on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endurosportleaside
