I accidentally found my new bike shop! When one looks for 'Bike store near me, via a Google search', Princeton Sports did not come up. The name doesn't necessarily scream bike repairs, etc., SO, I'm glad I asked my Triathlon buddy for a recommendation. First off, this store has HISTORY! It has been around since 1936! Whoa! I walked in with my bike (I MUST comment on the automatic doors which make walking in with your bike especially easy) and was instantly greeted by the woman at the register. She directed me towards the bike/repair section where I stood by to be tended to. I hadn't waited that long when the woman went to the back of the bike section to let them know I was waiting. That is how you do customer service. The young man came out, took my bike and explained the process. My bike needed a tune-up (and we'll see what else is wrong with it). Done! But wait, they have bikes. YIKES! I immediately spotted a new road bike in my size. Oh, Oh. "Can I see that one please?" She rode nice! Of course I took it for a spin. I've been wanting to upgrade to disc brakes and this Specialized Allez was smooth (do the kids still say that). Alright, in typical me style...... lemme ponder this expense. Days later I get a call that my bike needs a whole lot more. I get it, Ironman training can be rough on a bike! "Is that Specialized Allez still there"? Of course it was. YIKES. 2 days later and I'm back in the shop purchasing the Allez. But what's impressive is the care he took to fit my bike (like, a REAL fit) and move all my stuff from my other Specialized to this one. AND I get 2 years of service. He answered all my questions threw in some water bottles, and send me on my way. I'm impressed. They also have tons of equipment for Tennis, Skiing, Cycling, Swimming... a Triathletes paradise. I'll definitely be back to get that helmet I have my eye on and possibly some new bike shoes (sometimes you've gotta rationalize the purchases). So, it you're looking for a bike shop, this is it! read more

Just learned about the upcoming retirement of this family. Princeton Sports supplied my biking experiences over the years during the 60's and 70's. Their kind service to me during those formative years provided an understanding of spending your hard-earned money (as a teenager) to a store that respected and educated a young customer. Thank you for all your community outreach. Best in retirement. read more

TLDR: after many years of them watching me and my mixed race family like we were thieves, I gave up on them. This winter season I will take my business elsewhere. ******* I hesitated A LOT to write this review, but I have to tell you my experience. I was a on and off again customer for 13 years. I'm not going to call it racism, but it sure felt like it. I don't know if they treat ALL their customers like this, but I did watch and notice that every single time without fail the staff would target me and my family. So what do I mean, "target". I mean they wouldn't leave us alone. My wife (who is dark-skinned) eventually stopped going with me as she felt very uncomfortable and she stated they kept staring at her like she was going to steal something. I kept making excuses, "nah honey, it's a small business, they probably have a theft problem, it's probably not you, they probably do that to everyone", but without fail, EVERY SINGLE TIME Princeton Sports proved my wife right and made us feel VERY uncomfortable. We are skiers. I REALLY wanted Princeton Sports to be the Ski shop for me and my family. I took all my friends there for Ski season. I purchased my first set of decent skis 15 years ago there. I kept going back for waxing and cleaning of my skis and binding tests, but every single time, they made us feel uncomfortable. When we would go try on new gloves, they stared at us like hawks, never taking their eyes off us. One lady came up to us and asked us do we need help with something after starring at us for way too long and then she refused to leave. We told her we were making up our minds which pair of gloves to purchase. We were buying expensive ski gloves for the whole family of four and we are very particular about our gloves, since we ski 20+ days a winter. Every winter, when we visited multiple times a year, without fail, they would sit there and stair at us, like we were thieves. We are a mixed race family. Year-after-year I gave them my business, hoping they would recognize the thousands I spent there in winter skis and gear, and know that I wasn't a thief, I wasn't there to steal, I wasn't there to rob anything, I was there to OVERPAY for some ski equipment and ski clothes ONCE AGAIN in favor of supporting a small business. After a few years of putting up with constant looks and feeling uncomfortable, I begged my wife to please give Princeton Sports another shot...give them one more chance. I would say to her "I know they make you feel uncomfortable, but let's try once again this winter, maybe they changed staff", so we went in the store and I told myself "If these Princeton Sports employees make me or my wife feel uncomfortable, I'm going to off on them and tell them how I feel!" As soon as we walked in, they immediately they started staring at us....CONSTANT....we went to the winter section to pickup new gloves and cold weather gear...and here we go again...the staring...one lady approached me asked if we needed help? I tried to hold my my anger...for moment I did. I calmly told her, my family and I have been coming here for years. Every year, you make us feel uncomfortable. We don't need your assistance looking for winter weather clothes. You've been starring at us non-stop for a long time. Please leave and we'll call you if we need help. She just stood there and didn't move. I had enough, I haven't raised my voice to anyone in years, but I had enough of this place. I told her how I'd been coming here for years, how you always stare at my family like we're thieves, which is crazy, because every year I come in to your shop and spend a decent amount $$$ at least for me it seems like a lot to buy ski clothes and equipment. I did all my ski rentals there as well, yet you look at me like a crook and you stare at us non-stop, every hand movement. Every single thing is a awkward uncomfortable stare. I didn't even feel comfortable putting my hands in my pockets. I felt so angry I called the manager and he claimed he witnessed the interaction and he stated to come by and introduce myself, so we can get to know each other and I did, but the staff there still treated me the same the very next winter. I love a small ski shop feel, I wanted Princeton Sports to be the shop were I took my growing family to get all their Skis, but I will no longer put up with the way they stared at my mixed race family. I will say this though, Jeff at the ski center was the saving grace for Princeton Sports for years and the reason I kept going back, despite how the rest of the staff made us feel. Jeff was one of the few employees at Princeton that made us feel welcomed. He got a smile and a laugh out of both my kids every time. If Jeff could run his own ski shop, he'd be very successful. Shame Jeff's customer service is wasted on Princeton Sports. To the owner/manager: Don't bother calling me. Respond if you want, but it won't make a difference. You had years to treat us kindly and didn't. read more

My go to for skiing. Shop local and preserve the experience of real people helping you.

Our strings were constantly distorting. Being a novice player we asked for recommendations and bought strings from them to get that issue fixed. Newly strung rackets do the same thing! Went back in to talk to them. We were told that that was normal for the strings we bought. So much for being experts. Money down the drain and a potential repeat customer lost. read more

Great experience buying a bike. Went in to browse, was greeted by Corey a super chill and knowledgeable rep., asked him to hold the bike overnight while I thought about the purchase. Made the purchase, had them hold the bike for a week until I could pick it up, then Corey helped me install a bike rack in the rain. Good times roll. read more

We came in to try on ski boots and to learn more about skis available (as people who typically rent, but hoping to buy). We were turned away and told we'd be "wasting his time" because he assumed we weren't going to "buy from his store". We were disappointed in this poor level of customer service and pure lack of kindness. I wouldn't recommend shopping here if you are looking for help as a first time buyer. Sadly, we won't be returning. read more

Staff was monitoring the the number of people in the store and the number of people in the ski section. I was impressed by the extremely friendly staff. The young man that assisted us, engaged in conversation and took the time to get to know my son! I was truly impressed by how quickly they were able to adjust the skis and have them returned to us! Thank you for a great start to the ski season. read more

They have a good selection of snowboarding gear but the staff comes off extremely snobby , It's probably just that they're in a wealthy area but their interest in you as a customer is only truly shown if you leave with an empty wallet. I have been leered at for coming in as a young man assuming I won't spend the big bucks , Several friends and family feel the same way. read more

Took my bike in for a tune up. Service member quoted the tune up and tires/rear brake pads at $150. Super reasonable price IMO. Additionally, the bike was ready in less than 24 hours. But the price at pick-up was $180. All services were listed on the receipt and matched up to the $180. My gripe was that I said to myself that I would purchase a new bike if my repairs would equal more than $150 (the bike was 15 years old but in really good condition). This seemed to be more logical to me because the bike was 15 years old already so starting new wouldn't be the worst decision. The money was not the issue but $30 difference in quote vs. actual price of service is extreme to me. Highly doubt I'd take this bike for another tune up due to how many years old it already is but things like this make me contemplate doing future business there. (I've also rented ski equipment/purchased goggles and purchased apparel from them in the past). Wish the quote matched or was more relevant to the actual price I paid when I walked out the door. My suggestion would be to get your quote in writing which was my mistake. read more

I had the absolute best experience today renting my skis and ski boots! Connor and Mike explained everything in detail and were super great at answering all of my questions! All the staff was masked, made the experience safe and exceptional! Will absolutley be going back! read more

Princeton Sports is a Baltimore staple. They offer the best customer service of any ski/bike shop I have ever been too! The staff is knowledgeable and friendly. They have all the top brands you need in bikes and skis. A true pleasure to shop here. These guys do what it takes to make a customer for life! read more

I've come here to: rent ski equipment, get my snowboard waxed, get my tennis rackets strung and buy sports clothing. On every occasion I was impressed with the customer service and care given. The pricing for rentals, racket stringing and board waxing is very reasonable. As far as clothing, you may be able to find a better price online, but the customer service in store could possibly make up for the price difference. read more

Still excellent at the customer pleasing business. I have now purchased four bikes here ( two have been stolen, I guess thieves like good gear as well). I describe them as "pricey" but that's just so you don't wander in thinking about "big box" stickers like Sports Authority and Dick's. The equipment at those places may be cheaper (and lower quality) but you do get what you pay for in life. Princeton has great equipment and even better people. I am a fan. read more

I gave one star coz they repackage and add extra 7 bucks or so to a bike part with another 7 dollars for shipping without telling as I ordered. And I'm talking about a mech hanger that they should have it stocked at all times. I know coz I got the exact same part from Race pace. In addition they are Cannondale dealer and did not know that there are even 2 hanger types for Supersix. So I had to re-order after they got a wrong one. I recommend going to Race pace instead. read more

Had Connor helping me with electric bikes. Great guy and made the experience very easy going. Highly recommend this shop and working with him. read more

Made a special trip out of my way 3pm on a Tuesday from Baltimore to their Columbia location to pick up an item I needed immediately. When I arrived, I found out they were closed for the week because they are having a going out of business sale that starts on Friday. I really don't get why you can't remain open while you stage your store to "go out of business." I was addressed in the parking lot by a smug employee who told me about the closure and that they couldn't help me today. I mentioned that I was pretty unhappy because I made a special trip to this location and although I was aware of the pending store closure because it's on their website, NO WHERE on their site did it say the store was currently closed while they set it up. At this point, their lack of empathy got the better of me and I said I was going to have to go online and I am not surprised that their store is closing. The man responded to me by giving me the finger as I drove away. (More great service) I try to support local brick and mortar stores, but the owners of some of these businesses do not give you many reasons to do so. Online seems to be the best bet since form what I can tell Princeton Sports sells most of their products at full list price and when they have a "sale," you can easily match or beat it with a simple Google search. Also, I saw them unloading a Uhaul and bringing merchandise INTO the store, so buyer beware, they are bringing merchandise from other places. Seems quite shady to increase inventory for a liquidation sale. I know it is illegal to bring in additional inventory after a going out of business sale has started, and I would argue at the very least, the activity of loading inventory into the store 3 days before your going our of business sale starts is at best a gray area. Avoid read more

Princeton staff if the best. Very knowledgeable in all areas and helped me get the right fit on bikes and snowboards. Their post sale support is second to none. Would definitely recommend checking them out if looking for new gear. read more

I have been going to Princeton Sports for many years and I found a wide selection of items that I need for some of the interests I participate in. From mountain biking to skiing they give good advice and the staff is helpful. I even got lifetime waxing for my snow blades that I purchased many years ago From them. Would've given five stars but there was a mishap with the warranty on the ski waxing but it has now been remedied. read more

Princeton has been around for eons. Their selection of bikes is pretty good, and they offer decent service. Cory and Tom are stand-outs in the bike department and really go out of their way to accommodate. Cory always seems to have a smile on his face (or in his voice). They were both quite helpful when my girlfriend bought a new bike. The only downside to Princeton is the shop prices are on the high side compared to Joe's Bike Shop down the road, which is part of the reason I don't bring my bike there for service. read more

I had a rather uncomfortable and embarrassing experience at this sports shop on Sunday at 11:52 am on July the 1st 2012. It was the day Italy played Spain. I was looking to get an Italy jersey that morning prior to the final of the Euro 2012 game. I walked in at 11:52 because the door was open. I saw a guy at the cashiers desk, another employee and a few customers (or maybe friends relatives of the employees...not sure) But this guy at the desk asked me to leave. I was surprised and asked him why and he tells me that the shop opens at 12:00pm and until then I could'nt come in. Of course I promptly left and never went back. 8 mins! to 12pm and he wanted me to wait outside in the heat (37C) Was it perhaps I had a slightly darker skin colour...I am never going to know and perhaps I do not care. but go figure........ read more

The worst. In addition to high prices, the owner treated me and my son very rudely. My son got on a bike and paddled it ten feet (5 at the time) and he comes over and looks at me and says "do you ride a bike in your living room"? I'm sorry, I thought I was in a sporting goods store... read more

Can only speak to tennis stringing, but tension was FAR off the mark with staff uninterested in assisting further. Requested 58lbs as I usually do, didn't feel right when I got it, asked for tension check, didn't get it, staff instead assured me that it was 58lbs but just loose "because it is a comfort string (wilson nxt control)." Hit with it later in the day, felt about 53-54lbs at most, WAY far off, wasting my time and my string. Poor customer service integrity. I will be going to Holabird Sport from now on. I recommend all serious tennis players to do the same! read more

This is my third time coming here 2nd trade for a bike. Amazing service. Friendly staff. I live in DC and I came back just so I could come here. Thanks Princeton sports read more

Any snowboard top sheet repair service they offer can be done yourself for less than what they charge, and you'll get the satisfaction of knowing it was actually done correctly. read more

This review is purely for renting skis- my girlfriend doesn't own her own so we've been renting here once a year for the past 5 years or so for her. The customer service is always top notch- they're very lenient with the pickup and drop off dates and give you a far better deal than the ski resorts do. You can also optionally drop them off at their columbia location if you provide them notice when you pick up. This year their boots were brand new and the skis came nicely tuned. I highly recommend renting from them. Also if you decide to buy anything there I noticed they have a 50$ off purchases over 300$ on their website so check that out! read more

My wife grew up in Baltimore, so she used to shop here for ski equipment as a teenager. We were in the market for new skis, so after many years of absence, my wife dragged me here to "window shop", just to check out what was on offer. We walked out two hours and $1K+ later with new skis and ski boots for her. The staff are extremely knowledgeable, and they took the time to measure our feet accurately and ensure they matched boots to our feeling and ability. Unfortunately they didn't have any boots left in my size as its late in the ski season. But I was very impressed by the staff. My only complaint is lack of shorter ski lengths for men, but as I said it might be due to the fact that it was late in the season. Can't wait to try out their Colombia shop! read more

Horrible customer service! After calling ahead to ask about racquet stringing capability, and an hour of driving, upon arrival we were informed that the machine was down, with a shrug of apathy. This was never mentioned on the phone an hour prior. They wasted one hour each way of time for 4 people. Be warned, don't waste your time. read more

This is my go-to spot for ski rentals, and the quality of products is top-notch for the price. I will continue to rent from here until I do purchase my own boots/skis at one point. My only complaint is that I've had mixed experiences with the customer service. I've gone in before and have had to wait 15-20 minutes to be helped, and once when I called to ask about ski rentals, I was met with a very rude older man who made it known I was nuisance for calling as opposed to coming in-person. On the other hand, I've also gone in and had many of the younger employees help me promptly and efficiently. read more

Hey Allan, I'm the guy who came in the other day for a wax and edge on my snowboard with brand new bindings that I bought FROM YOU to be put onto my snowboard that I bought FROM YOU. You wrote me up a ticket and said it would be done in a week but to wait for the bindings to be installed so you could give me back my old ones because you thought they would get lost or thrown away. I found this a bit odd until you asked for my ticket back and then went and hid in your office. After a few minutes waiting I asked your associate for help and he went and talked to you, and then abruptly gave me back my board and bindings insisting it was tuned up when clearly it hadn't been waxed or edged. Not sure where the disconnect was here but disappointing to say the least. Over the years I've bought 2 sets of snowboards/bindings/boots and a bike from your store. Clearly you could care less about residual customers so I'll be taking my business elsewhere. Save your rebuttal, your better off hiding in your office and letting your employees do your dirty work. read more

Shoutout to Stella...my girl was SO helpful. Seriously. I didn't know I needed a bib until she was able to understand and perfectly interpret the kind of fit and feel I was looking for any pair it with my body shape. The racks are confusing and unorganized, but man did she shorten the length of our trip. For timeless items, this is the place to go. This establishment has just never failed us. read more

I swim at Meadow Brook down the road and many of the ladies recommended this place for a swim suit. I came into the store right after work (wearing business casual clothing) and was browsing through the clothing racks. As I look up, I could see a sales lady watching me out of the corner of her eye. Oddly placed, she was just standing behind another rack watching me like I was going to steal something. She was watching me the entire time while looking through the clothes. Later, when I asked her a question, she did not crack one smile and had some major attitude. I immediately bee-lined it for the exit. They have great quality stuff but I am never coming back. I felt discriminated. read more

EXTREMELY HELPFUL STAFF that made me feel at home. Picking up a new pair of skis today was a breeze today with the help of staff member Connor Covell. The knowledge team members reinforced my final decision on a new ski that I ended up taking home that day. Not only was I able to pick up a new pair of skis with bindings for the BEST PRICE I could find even when comparing online; but I was able to get my boots refitted/adjusted during the process of my new skis getting mounted (granted the minimal work load of the usually busy ski-tech). I have been a customer with Princeton for years now and can reassure anybody that this is the place to go for competitively priced skis and snowboards. I choose to buy in person instead of on the internet, for two reasons; you never know what to expect in a ski unless you hold them, and the fact that there is always something to learn in the new technology offered every season. Between those two reasons and the friendly camaraderie from the staff, I will always shopping at Princeton Sports. read more

Recently had a great experience. I bought my first road bike, a Cannondale Carbon 5 Synapse, and some gear about 9 months ago. I had planned to go to a few shops but got great service so I bought there and was glad I did. You get free tune ups for a year. I also recently bent a rear rim. They got me a great deal on a set of Mavic Cosmic Elites. I then got three flats in a row over 7 miles total. The third time I walked in and was greeted right away by Matthew. He took my rear wheel in the back and found a burr under the rim liner, it could have been anything. He said the tube, liner, and labor were on them, no charge. I mentioned there was a little thrub or hop in the rear too and he noticed a defect in the tire, likely from the manufacturer. I bought the tire there recently and he replaced it, no charge, also. That was all unexpected. I know you can get stuff cheaper online but you can't get service like that. I've bought a lot of stuff there over the years, mostly kids bikes, but the service is always friendly with good advice. Other shops in town are also really good but few carry Cannondale. Support your local bikes shops, the good ones like Princeton will be there for you. They have great people who all ride and love what they do. Go there, buy there, and you'll have a great experience, if not, tell them about it and they will make it right. read more

I purchased just one bike from Princeton, a Raleigh Sport back in 1964. I'm still an avid cyclist and have used Princeton to service at least two of my bikes purchased elsewhere. The service? In a word, terrific. The mechanics they've hired really know their stuff. What's more, the service is fairly prompt - you'll have your bike returned on the day and time they tell you. As far as accessories, Princeton's rep for high prices isn't fully deserved. For example, my Specialized bike saddle was only $35. Also, I got a nice pair of Specialized cycling shoes on sale for $90. Prices on their road bikes also appear competitive with most shops except Performance. read more

This place is a great find for those in the Baltimore area. The guys who helped us were incredibly knowledgeable. They've gained a new customer for life. read more

I have been going to Princeton in Columbia, MD for many years for many bikes, skis, and snowboards. I absolutely LOVE my two Cannondale road bikes!! My bikes are fast and furious, the way I like to ride! I just took 1 in for its tune up and it came back so clean that it looked brand new. I love the staff at Princeton. I trust them, their opinions, and their products. I highly recommend Princeton Sports of Columbia, MD if you need bikes, snowboards, and/or skis. I look forward to their awesome winter selection of women's ski clothing each and every year. read more

We had such a pleasant shopping experience at Princeton. Your team member, Jason was extremely knowledgeable and friendly as well as patient, respectful and sensitive to our needs. The entire purchase went smoothly and my son is very pleased with his first road bike. I look forward to returning to purchase accessories when we need them! read more

I can't say enough good things about this place! My church has tennis competitions each year with other sister congregations. Well, needless to say, I am a bit competitive and completely forgot to get my strings redone before the game a couple weeks ago. I came in and explained the situation, and they literally had it done in a day! They had it done so quickly I couldn't believe it. Just another reason I will always go there to buy and service any of my equipment...fast and friendly. read more

The snowboarding people are very nice and helpful but the people downstairs are not. I stood waiting for service at the main desk for a while until someone finally noticed me. Then when I was finally met by someone they told me that returns are given store credit if the item is on sale. So if you buy something that is on sale and want to return it you will be given store credit even if it's within their "14 day" policy. The item I bought was $40 cheaper online but I wanted to support my local business. Never make that mistake again. read more