I've always had a good experience here -- I'm new to biking and have asked many beginner questions here and have been helped without judgement or condescension. It's nice to have a welcoming bike shop right in my neighborhood, and to be sure I have what I need in order to ride safely. read more

WTF. look, people that practice a trade or a service, like bike repair tend to be cocky and arrogant for good reason, because there are idiots like you just willing to throw money at them because you are too lazy to learn how to do simple shit yourself. Yes Boulevard is SLIGHTLY over priced. Yes some of the Mechanics at Boulevard are a little pampas, but you might deserve it anyways, learn how to change your own tubes, learn how to measure things, learn how to use an adjustable wrench. Bottom line however is this, they do enough business to stay a float, which is applaud worthy for a local business now-a-days. If you are worried about what people think about you, go to Kozy where they hire greeters and cashiers. If you give a shit about your bike, take it to people that live for this stuff, and get over your self. As for my rating....its over priced, and the hours aren't 'fantastic' but it is very close, and I trust them. read more

Oh bike shops, how I loathe you sometimes. Here's the thing, I know you guys think you are SO smart with your intimate knowledge of deraileurs, bottom brackets and cable housing, but I'm not impressed. In fact, I'm pretty sure if I put some thought and effort into it, I could teach myself in an afternoon. But I digress...here is your job (no really you get paid for it): be pleasant to a clientele that could easily choose any number of other bike shops in the area; acknowledge the customer's existence WHEN THEY ARRIVE and not after they stand at the counter for 10 minutes; do actually respond to questions and concerns without behaving like it is all SO beneath you; do NOT spend all of your time chit-chatting with the guy who came in to talk about his breaking in his new brooks saddle and ignore the girl in the corner who wants to, you know, purchase an entire bike but is too intimidated by your super awesome tats and snooty attitude. Being female, I often find bike guys extraordinarily condescending and chauvinistic. No I do not have a Y chromosome, but that does not, in fact, make me an idiot or invisible. I walked into this place (actually walked for about 2 miles because I got caught out with a flat) to get a tube...which took 10 minutes to procure. I had literally ten dollars in my pocket, so I said, hey I'll change it, just give me the tube. I asked if I could do it in the shop and I got a gruff sort of gesture to move to the front. I change my tube, pump it up (never an offer for help, would have been neighborly) then move to the counter with my trashed tube and stand...and wait...for the mechanic to finish discussing the complexities of velo rims with a non-customer before I could squeeze in a question about the trash can and the washroom. Demanding, I know. Ugh. I love riding bikes. I freaking hate bike shops. This review could go for about 50% of the world's bike shops. What really pissed me off was the girl who walked in and clearly wanted to walk out with a bike and the dudes probably did a very good job of confusing and intimidating her until she slinked out. lord, it's two wheels, some gears and some brakes, let's try to remember that. read more

All of the reviews talking about rude, condescending employees is true. I randomly stumbled across this and remembered my experience from a little while back -- when I took my old-ish but decent condition bike in for a tune-up. They spent the entire time insulting my choice in bike and telling me what parts sucked. I can't support a place like this. They're complete jerks. I thought it was just me, then I stumbled across this listing on Yelp today and saw that I wasn't alone. Note: If you've got a mustache and a fixie, you probably won't get treated like this. read more

I have lived in Logan Square for about 10 years now. I have been a bike guy the entire time I've lived here and Boulevard Bikes was always my first stop any time I needed an obscure part or small maintenance done. I am a fan of their sponsored group rides, and I've even had one of their employees build me custom touring racks, and while I've never bought a bike from them, I have probably done business with them, both big and small, some 20+ times -- all great experiences. Safe to say: I've had nothing but good things to say. However, I recently took my Long Haul Trucker in to get a brake lever replaced. When I dropped the bike off, I was quoted $60 -- a fair price considering the parts and the sort of tedious labor required. However, when I finally went to pick up the bike, I was given a bill of $194! I was never given a call asking if it was ok, or even to let me know that the charge had more than tripled in price -- and no, my new brake levers weren't even SRAM Red. When I asked why, they shrugged and said "We needed to do more labor than we thought". Perhaps when that realization comes, it would be a good time to call the customer and make sure it's ok. To be honest, I feel taken advantage of. This hasn't diminished my love of biking at all, but it has diminished my love of Boulevard, and I will be frequenting another shop in the future. EDIT: After looking at the receipt, I noticed the total adds up to $147, making me even more disappointed by the whole thing. read more

It was a glorious spring day and I was excited to buy a new bike after my last one is stolen. This place is close to my house so I thought I would support a local business. I walk up to the door at 6:00 on a Monday. The door gate is locked, I peak in and there is a young guy at the counter. I knock, he looks up, and then looks back down. I look at the posted hours sign and it read 7:00. I stand there for a minute and walk away rather upset. They lost a $650 sale and a customer for life to Armitage Bike Shop. read more

I will start off with my personal experience. I took my bike in on a Saturday around 11:30 am. I was told it was only about 20 minutes worth of work so it wouldn't be done until the end of the day. Not a problem, one of the first nice days, I completely understand. I return the next day around opening and get a guy who was seriously high as a kite. I came in and asked if it was ready and he didn't really know what was going on. Told me to come back tomorrow and it would be done. I show up on Tuesday and after being told they had no record of it I find the guy who i actually gave it to. He barely remembers but after I tell him a bit more about it he remembers. I'll now continue with something else I noticed. When I was in line on Saturday this large chested cute girl was in front of me. Her wheel was bent, inner tube pinched, and tire was worn down. They serviced her entire bike on the spot which took about 15 minutes before I was even greeted by an employee. I was then told what I need would take about 15 minutes and they would get to it by the end of the day - seriously. After coming back to yelp and reading all of the other reviews notice that every poor (1 or 2 start) review was written by a guy. Save ONE which a woman writes about her husband's experience. I'll save you the time but check out the yelp reviews. Average rating by a female: 4.33 Average rating by a male: 3.05 read more

So after reading the reviews here, I decided to tempt fate and try Boulevard Bikes. Boy was it a mistake. I recently moved to Chicago from Brooklyn, NY (where I went to B's Bikes -- which is what Blvd. Bikes should be like) and needed to find a good bike shop near where I live. My friends, who are all avid cyclists told me to go to Smart, but Blvd is literally across the street from my house and since I was missing a wheel, I figured I might as well bring it to the local shop and not schlep the bike over to Smart. I brought the bike in last week and told the guy I needed a basic wheel. He pulls out some stuff and quotes me what seems like a slightly high price, but still not unreasonable. I further explained that I really wanted to go as basic as possible seeing as this bike is really just an old beat up road bike that isn't worth investing in the expensive parts for. Only then did he decide to show me a less expensive, yet perfectly suitable option. I figured that while the bike was in the shop, I might as well get a basic tune-up. Usually I do it myself or have a friend do it, but since the bike was in the shop anyway, well why not? I was quoted a price which seemed fair and happily left the bike there, excited for the first chance I would get to ride around my new city. A week goes by and right on the day promised, I get a phone call telling me everything was ready. Great! So I wait for the next morning and go pick up the bike with just enough time to hop on and ride to work. However, as I look at the bill, I discover that I am being charged nearly twice that which I thought I had been quoted. Apparently, the price I had in my head was only for the work, it didn't include any of the parts. I told the apathetic young lady at the counter that I was pretty certain I had been told this would cost a lot less to which she replied something along the lines of, "ummm yeahh... well uh...." Thanks for the customer service there. I told her that I never would have agreed to that price seeing as the bike isn't worth that much. In fact, I've been debating either investing money into this bike or buying new one for a few seasons now, so why would I spend this exorbitant amount on a cheep wheel and a tune-up? This time I was flatly told, "well it'll feel like new." Again, thanks. I suggested that in the future, they make sure their employees are clearer when quoting prices. Had I not been in a rush to work I would have stayed and talked with a manager. Just a side note, I work in retail and I know how easy it is to be apologetic and make a customer feel like you are actually trying to help them. I certainly didn't get that here. So, now I have a bike that runs as good as it can (which is far from great) and no money in my bank account. The only reason they get a second star is that they did finish the work in the time frame quoted and did a decent job regardless of cost. read more

Moved to the neighborhood recently and needed to find a local bike shop to call home. I was a long-time Irv's customer, but it's now too far for me. Boulevard is really close, so I tried them out first. I just needed a basic tune up; I have a really basic schwinn road bike. Didn't need anything fancy. The guy takes a quick look and says that it would be about $80 for labor and probably $20-30 for parts. And that it would be about two weeks before they could get me in for an appointment. Whoa! My bike is not even worth that much, and I know for sure I don't need that much work. And two weeks?? So I went over to the next shop in line, Smart Bike. They quoted me $25 and finished it perfectly by the NEXT DAY. Now I'm riding in the sunset... read more

Kevin from boulevard bikes was so wonderful! He was extremely helpful, offering personal experience and clear knowledge on the panniers and front racks I was interested in. Ultimately, guiding me towards the best selection for myself. He installed the rack and helped tweak a lot of little details on my bike improving my fit and bike function. I rode away astronomically more comfortable and secure with my bikes ability to withstand the tour I'm about to embark on. They have some excellent brands in stock and lots of cool accessories. Thanks so much for the help! read more

My husband's bike got stolen recently so we are in the market for a new bike. This was the third place we saw and the man that spoke to my husband was a complete D. When my husband had mentioned that the description on the business said used bike shops the man snuffed at him and said that any bike he would buy for less than $400 is a piece of crap. Didn't even show him any used ones. and that was just the beginning of their conversation together. I don't see how anyone can afford to be rude to their customers. After reading some reviews, we weren't alone. If you wonder "why do people think bicyclists are d holes" go to this place and talk to a few employees here and you will know. By far the worst experience out of the five bike shops we visited that day. read more

I have never been to this bike shop before, but I had a negative experience my first time here. When I walked in, I was not greeted at the door. I greeted the person working there, but he just nodded instead of saying hello. On top of that, he was rude to me when I went to pay for the item I had wanted. I will not shop here again- although it's location is convenient, it is not worth the trouble! read more

I've been trying so hard to like boulevard bikes, as it's my neighborhood shop, but each time I've gone in there (all for minor repairs), i have had less than good experiences. The guys there generally aren't as pretentious as other reviews make them seem, but i certainly wouldn't call them friendly. I do have to say the service isn't slow, and I think they really know what they're doing; all of my repairs have been thorough and they tend to go 'the extra mile', like checking derailleurs, brakes, lubing the chain, etc. just a quick little tune-up, nothing big. The problem with their extra mile is though, that at the end of everything, they ask for an extra $5 for doing that, and with a tone that makes you feel like guilty cheap asshole if you don't. it's happened to me three times there, by three different people, and I think it's unprofessional and shady. Also, one time I went in for a simple flat, and I had pointed out to me all of the things wrong with my bike (and having a used bike, there is constantly something that needs to be fixed). the guy there was condescending, doubting everything i knew about my bike, and made me feel like shit for not knowing specifics. As my roommate put it: I'm not paying to know how to repair it, I'm paying them to know. Sorry guys, but 2 stars for shady business and condescension. read more

Overpriced with NO selection!!! Literally only had 15 bikes max all over $400 which was not in my price range. Also customer service was just ehhhh he was helping another person but all he said was hi which wasn't helpful to someone like me who doesn't know much about bikes so I had a lot of questions. Save your time and go to kozy's they have a way more bikes and a range of prices so you can find a bike within your budget! read more

Service -okay.. Walk in there ask if I could get a vent rim fix,he says I will do it it may not cum out good- 20$- i said okay- got a new rim on it with out asking me about it-75$- I was clear if u cant get it fix I'm just going get a new bike--I was told I can take it out- but they will leave ur bike worthless !! Just move in the area will make sure non of my friends go there! read more

I went to this place went I had a flat and they fix it right on the spot. They told me what was the problem and show me it. Overall, it was a great place and would go again if I'm near the area. read more

After searching "used bikes, Logan Square" in the yelp search bar, this place popped up at the top of the list. Their website even says they sell used bikes. Since I grew up a lazy suburban driver, I'd never owned a bike before, so I went in and told an employee "Hi, I'm looking for help deciding what type of bike to buy as a beginner." In return I got a blank stare and a slow, oozing response so thick and syrupy with arrogance, the words seeped out of his mouth like ol' country molasses: "You've never owned a bike....EEEEVVVVEEERRRRR????? ...Oh and we don't sell used bikes" read more

These guys rule. They built me an amazing bike, and they know what's up. Repairs, new bikes, and custom builds. They have the knowledge and their service is the best. read more

Kevin and Doug are professionals and deserve to be treated and compensated as such. This shop has restored 3 of my bikes and I must compliment their excellent turn around time, work quality and fair prices. Their patience, willingness to educate me on caring for the bikes, and knowledge about product pros/cons is to be complimented. Thanks for making my ideas a viable reality! read more

I wasn't sure about this shop the first day I went in. The didn't seem very friendly, like a lot of people here have said, but they answered my question and were patient. I went back a few more times for various reasons and they always gave me good advice and took there time answering whatever questions I had. They never seemed friendly, but were never rude, any of those times. I wouldn't let the lack of warmth stop you from going there. They know what they're doing, have fair prices, quality products, and if practical, fix your bike right away. The shop was clean and organized. The opposite is a definite indicator of a bad shop. This place is a great. read more

Kevin and Doug are great bike mechanics, and I always get good bike service here...Doug has been fixing my bike on and off for like 8 years, so I follow him store to store. Check out the cheap Bianchi avenue. I got one stolen, and came in here and got a new one the next day. Interesting used bike selection as well. read more

My favorite bike shop in the city. As you all know, bike shops can be staffed by know-it-all bitter grease monkeys. Not this place. They've been helping folks in Logan Square with smiles for quite awhile. Buy your next bicycle there. It'll be a pleasing experience! read more

Great bike shop, definitely a no snob zone. I'm more or less clueless and Kevin was really helpful and took the time to listen to what I needed. He recognized an issue I probably wouldn't have noticed and repaired it for free since it was with a wheel they'd previously replaced for me. Repairs have always been reasonable as well. read more

I've been coming here for years. Jim built my bike from scratch and it's my baby. I've brought a number of friends there to research bikes and their staff is always super patient with our questions and trials of various bikes, even if we don't end up buying there. If I come in for a minor repair they often don't even charge me. Sometimes I go up there to use the stand in the front so I can oil my chain or replace a tube. They let me use their tools and show me when I'm screwing something up. I go to other shops like Uptown Bikes and Smart Bike parts from time to time, but BB will always be my shop. Really can't say enough good things and just had to register my 5-star sentiments about Boulevard Bikes. read more

Boulevard, I love you, I really do. The dudes in this shop are super sweet and even though I haven't brought my bike in for like... 18 months... they STILL know who I am and recognize my bike when I run into them on the street. I really don't understand why other yelp people think they're so snooty here; that hasn't been my experience at all. Just chill, peeps. Sometimes when people are doing their job they get into a groove and it's hard to stop. They aren't being dicks, they're just doing their jobs. So why haven't I been here for so long? Well, I moved. And let me just say, Boulevard's work so far has been far superior to the work I've had on my bike since. For example, when I first rescued my favorite bike, I rode it straight to BB to have a complete overhaul. Over about a year period, they put on cork, an adorable brass bell, a rack, new wheels, new tires, new brakes, and a new derailleur. I FINALLY replaced the cork this summer, not because it was coming lose, (it was still tight as ever,) but because it was dirty from overuse. The new cork I got (at a different shop) came off RIGHT AWAY. How is it that the cork BB put on lasted for 3 YEARS, but the cork this other shop put on only lasted for 3 days??? I guess what I'm trying to say is that the dudes at BB really do care. They take time to do their job correctly and they love what they're doing. They take care of their customers and do get to know their regulars. Great guys, great shop. My only complaint is that the selection of goods outside of rims and tires can be slim but it's usually a good idea to shop around for that stuff, anyway. read more

I couldn't be farther from hipsterdom, but I live in and love Logan Square. I care about promoting LogSq businesses when I get the service that I expect. I'm rarely disappointed. Boulevard Bikes helped us with what we needed, and they obviously know their business. I think some bad reviews from Yelpers come from folks that expect to get their asses smooched when they walk into any Chicago retail establishment. Well, most places don't really get paid for that. I like that Boulevard carries a small selelction of ALL decent bikes, for novice and expert riders. They sold and installed a rack on my '78 Schwinn Collegiate with zero attitude. read more

Love Boulevard Bikes. I've been going here for years, they are super laid back, no pressure, and honest!

sweet location, in the middle of everything logan square. also awesome. really affordable prices for quick service. this place is great! just watch out for their hours. they tend to be a little screwy. read more

I have used Boulevard a few times for tire fixings. I like going here because: it is close to home, it is affordable, it is fast, they are always nice and reliable. read more

Kevin and co. have all the snazz and pizazz one could hope for in a friendly neighborhood bike shop.

Oh my gosh darn jeebus. This place is awesome and everyone who works here is awesome. They've helped me with with every issue I couldn't fix myself for the last five years, and the staff is cute as hell to boot. I can't say how much I like this place without being removed for TOS. read more

I've been going there for years and they provide top-notch repairs, great advice and friendly service. They've helped me through triathlons, years of bike commuting, training for century rides, the theft of a brand-new bike, and many other bike milestones. Kevin and Doug are great! read more

I've visited this shop twice, and both times I came in with a rusty used bike I bought from craigslist. I don't use my bike everyday and it's not something I can afford to put a lot of money into at the moment, but I needed it fixed. It's always intimidating to be THAT person in a bike shop. The first time I came in about a year ago, I got a snobby comment towards my bike. However, they still fixed my flat for a reasonable price, and it's in the neighborhood and convenient. Yesterday I returned, needing a brake adjustment. They fixed my brakes, offered me advice on what could be improved with NO sense of superiority, and didn't charge me for the service! They told me to save my money for further repairs. It meant a lot to me and I really appreciate it. I will absolutely be back, and highly recommend this shop! read more

I would have to agree with a lot of the reviews already posted - the service I experienced could have been better. Instead of maybe thinking that I had my own reasons for doing what I did with my bike, they proceeded to tell me that the only thing I should do would be the most expensive option. Yeah, good easy advice, but it doesn't work in all cases. Additionally, they said my work would be done in an hour. I needed my bike by then so I could get my groceries after the car was stolen. Alas, two and a half hours later, my bike was still unfinished, so I ended up making three trips to the shop. They get an extra star for staying open for me and for actually doing a really nice job. I'll give them another shot to see if the service is worth it. read more

This is the place to bring your bike for repairs. Very straightforward and very reasonable prices. I felt comfortable walking in, trusted what the guy told me, and felt comfortable leaving my bike there. It's real and not one of the snooty, I'm cooler than you, type of shops. I subtracted a star because I didn't get that much done and cannot fully judge. However, I am bringing my bike back soon for several upgrades and I will report back. I assume they will get the full 5 in the end. read more

Friendly & quick. Replaced a tire for me quickly & efficiently. Both employees there were really congenial & seemed to really enjoy what they were doing. I've gone to other bike shops where I feel like a burden or lame for not knowing a ton about bikes but not here. Thanks! read more

I have been to many bike shops in my life, and Boulevard is really the best. Yes--they are a little more expensive than some other shops. I consider it well worth it for the quality and the care that the mechanics put into my bikes. Also, they are honest about what repairs you do and don't need--they won't try to talk you into stuff that is unnecessary. I moved away from the neighborhood a year ago and still make the trek out there because I really do think they are the best. read more

Great bicycle shop! Went in there today to get a bike and the guy who worked with me was really patient and helpful. I should have gotten his name but I think it says "Redd" on my sales slip. read more

I pass several several bike shops on my way to BB because they have more reasonable prices and good mechanics. They've always been helpful and patient with me and my fiancée. read more

I've been to many bike shops in the city over the years and I can honestly say that all of them have been very good with very friendly service. Boulevard Bikes ranks way up there on my list as the salespeople were very patient with me and very helpful in getting me the bike that i wanted (Bianchi Pista). Also, after getting hit by a car while on my bike last fall (car's fault), I was still able to ride my damaged bike to their shop. They not only looked over my bike thouroughly, but seemed genuinely concerned with my physical well-being and encouraged me to go to the hospital for a check-up. read more