I am the only 24 year old in the world that doesn't know how to ride a bike. Yes, I'm aware that I missed a pivotal part of childhood. No, I never cared that I couldn't ride a bike... However, now that I've moved to Chicago and there are so many beautiful lakefront trails, I want to learn. I found a used bike sale in Evanston next week and stopped into Roberts for a helmet and lock in preparation. Considering everyone on Yelp said the sales people were so helpful, I noted that I knew nothing about bikes, so I would appreciate any knowledge they could impart. In addition to telling me all about various types of locks, helmets, etc., they were nice enough to give me tips for what to look for (or more what to steer clear of) when I go to my bike sale. They even took me into their basement so I could see some examples, get an idea of what bike would fit me, etc. Incredible service. I'll be back here for every bike problem I encounter. read more

I won't be returning to Roberts Cycle. I initially called inquiring in regards to a timeline for replacing flat tires with new tubes. I was told over the phone it would be same day or 1 day latest. I dropped my bike off the same day (Monday). At the store I was then told it wouldn't be ready until Thursday. I was given a ticket with pricing. I never received a call on Thursday. I called multiple times on Friday after being told "they couldn't find my bike and weren't sure if it would be finished". After following up several times; they changed their tune and said it would be ready by end of day. I picked up the bike on Friday afternoon and the man wearing suspenders changed the price from original ticket - upcharging the price! I was told $9 for bike tape on initial ticket and he changed the price to $16. My tires aren't even full either! Customer service is garbage! Save your time and money - go to Gary's down the street! read more

Stars for over-all experience - but as M.A. notes - it's an east to miss and somewhat dusty hole in the wall. But Kris and Richard are the real McCoy and I would trust them with my life, er, bike any day. We found them via Google when looking for good used bikes for our friends from Holland. And ended up buying one for ourselves as well. They are now the only place we will go for repairs and/or parts. What a refreshing break from the attitude and prices you'll find at The Pony Shop and Turins. These guys REALLY know and love bicycles. And I love the way one of them (not sure which) has "repaired" his glasses with a band-aid (I assume he puts on a new one every now and then.) ALSO, if you go in the morning, a few blocks down you might run in to Nik M.'s TAMALES WOMAN (see review) and negotiate a fair price for her exceptionally good tamales (real live street food!) read more

This is a small shop with an old-school ambiance around the store. Let me explain. Many customers are spoiled by big corporation customer service, fake smile when you walk in the door and someone following you around the shop asking if you need any assistance. You will not get that at Roberts. The times I've been at the shop, I have had to wait my turn, sometimes 10 or more minutes. There are not a lot of sales people on the floor. If you talk to someone other than Rich, it's usually a shop guy that comes out of the back from working on the bikes. When you do get to speak to Rich (the owner), he will give you his undivided attention. He is extremely knowledgeable. He's not going to kiss your ass to make a sale, he's not going to talk you into anything that you do not need. He can be brash and quirky and he likes to talk a lot, but if you can get past that you are golden. Remember you're not going in there him to stroke your ego, he's just trying to fix your bike. Rich told me the philosophy of the shop is not to try and sell new bikes, but to help you utilize and fix your current bike. Therefore, he will help you find an economical solution to your bike problem. I was sold a Trek bike that was too big for me. But instead of trying to pressure me into buying a new bike, he modified what I had to make it rideable and more comfortable until I can afford something new. And the modifications he made to my existing bike were extremely affordable. This is a great shop. It's been around for over 25 years. I think that says something about the quality of work they provide. Don't go there for high-end bike boutique feel, go there know that there are several experienced, hard working men that work like hell to make your bike great. read more

I messaged Roberts Cycle on Yelp about an issue with my breaks and they messaged back right away. They told me about their free bike check-up and their special deal on bike tune-ups. I did a little research and their tune-up deal was comparable if not more reasonable that other places both near me and in Skokie. Since they are in my neighborhood I went over, dropped off my bike and they gave me an estimate. They got in touch with me exactly when they said they would, gave me a solid estimate and before I knew it they had texted me letting me know that the service for my bike had been completed. The owner, Richard, and his staff were super-friendly and extremely helpful. Aside from the final price being a little less than the estimate they also guaranteed all work for 60 days and said if I have any problem I should bring the bike back. These guys have been in business for years and I can tell why they are still around. They are honest and extremely helpful. read more

$100 for new tubes, major tuneup, and new brake on my bike. While another overpriced shop in Evanston told me it was a lost cause, these guys recognized the true genius of a genuine Chicago Schwinn and treated her like the valuable antique she is. They were great at explaining to me (a bike newbie) what they had done and told me to make sure to bring it back in if I had any issues. The only delay was the owner was experiencing some health issues and it was spring busy season, so it took about 2 weeks. read more

I brought my bike here last year and they did a great job with it so I brought it right back. See, I was bad in taking care of my bike and left it outside all winter long because I didn't have any room for it anywhere. I thought the wheels were gone since they were pretty rusted, however Richard took the time and said that he would take care of this for me along with other miscellaneous repairs. My bike is finally in top shape for riding this summer. read more

Great shop. They really care about helping bikers out. If they don't have the right bike or part for you, they will help you find it either by ordering it or referring you to other great shops. The guys and gal that work there are knowledgeable and avid cyclists. I go here for parts, tips & advice, and minor tuning, but they also have a pretty good selection of used bikes with some character (older frames, single speed conversions, etc.) I bought a Roadmaster converted single speed here a little under a year ago, got into an accident with it. They guys at Roberts Cycle helped me put together a claim at no charge, and they even ended up doing the repairs below the cost of the estimate! I came to them looking to buy a new bike, and they have a good selection, just none that fit me. They recommended another shop and were very helpful. I come in and know the guys by name and they remember me. You can't easily find that in a shop: genuine friendliness. I feel comfortable asking for advice and tips, and I feel thanks to them I've gone from a recreational no nothing rider to an avid cyclist who can do minor repairs and even convert/fix up my old bikes. Head here if you want a positive bike shop experience, or if you're looking to get more into city cycling! read more

I have been to Roberts several times, and my experience is consistently great. I have a cross-bike that's about 20 years old; I use it to bike for fun, but the last year, I started commuting more and more, so, more miles. Summer 2013 I got the tune-up special, which was precipitated by a broken spoke. The tune-up transformed my bike, shifting and braking, most notably. Summer 2014, the left crank arm fell off on the Lakefront Trail, and I limped home with one pedal (more possible that you can imagine). They put it back on (no charge) and asked me to come after 100 miles so they could retighten. We did this three times; they said this was typical (never a charge; they did it while I waited). Fall 2014 my click shifters went; it turns out that, while lifting my bike to use my building's vertical bike rack, I'd unknowingly cracked them. They found a used one, gave me a good price and fixed it while I waited. I was grateful as it was a gorgeous late fall day, and I'd planned a trek. The week afterwards, though, had to take it back in because it wouldn't shift. The guy that repaired it took more time and said that the shifter and derailleurs were so old that they didn't communicate well; I also needed another derailleur to go with the new shifter. I was bummed about that, but it made sense, so I had them fix it for a reasonable price, using a used one that was in the store, so I didn't have to wait. Overall, they are resourceful and honest, and I've always had the greatest service. Every time, I feel that they're committed to help keep me on the road! #kudos read more

Old cranky man and overpriced parts! Never had my bike serviced there and perhaps never would. I know it's sorta neighborhood place that has been there forever, but the old man has to learn how to be nice to customers. I wouldn't go there. Uptown bikes has much better prices and WAAAAAAY more friendly staff members! read more

This shop is classic- if you want a small town quality and trustworthy business that takes care in what they do- this is the place to go- delighted with the service- they called with a quote before the service, called as soon as my bike was done, and highly recommend. read more

Great customer service from very knowledgeable staff. They service all kinds, but this is a particularly great shop for vintage bikes, which seems to be a specialty! I've brought in two 1970s bikes for tune-ups and both are working great now - they didn't bat an eye at the unusual gear shift mechanism on one of them - immediately ID'd what it was, the years it was produced, how to operate, etc. Also they allow walk-up appointments - just bring in your bike, they'll take a look, write you an estimate, and let you know about how many days for it to be ready. After pickup, you have a 50 day warranty so if anything goes awry or needs a little tweaking, they'll take care of it for no extra charge - really stand by their work. Reasonable prices, with occasional specials (such as $79 tune-up), and no upselling on gear or services you don't need. Happy to have found this place! read more

As a newer Rogers Park resident, but an oldie in age, as well as my 1997 Trek 730 Model, that I recently had Roberts Cycle "wield" their hand to "liven up" the old gal . . . I must say, how impressive the long-standing, reputable history, years of love, sweat and hard labor make Roberts Cycle "zing" with ongoing, satisfied old and new customers, alike. I sensed the lingering "savor" over endless classic bicycles, of years gone by. It is almost a museum, of every make and model of bicycles, ever designed. My 1997 Trek received the works, from a solid tune-up, new tires and chain. I enjoyed meeting and talking to the managing helm of Roberts Cycle, Richard, and a few of the hard-working staff members, whose passion and dedication, keep Roberts Cycle, the Stellar Gem that shines brightly in their neighborhood Rogers Park Community! God Bless YOUR hearts with Renewed Strength to keep your Community Pedaling!! Amen! read more

They are passionate about bikes and very knowledgeable and helpful. I went to another store before and was misled into buying something I didn't need, and when I went here for a different but related issue, it was explained to me how/why the other guys were wrong. Also, every time I'm there I keep feeling based on how I'm treated like they know me except that I'm certain I haven't been there often enough to be remembered (at least not in a short time period). Come here before you go anywhere else. A+ read more

My experience is fairly limited with this shop, but I definitely wasn't disappointed. An older gentleman who I assume is the owner found some missing parts for a pair of '70s Weinmann brake levers. Saved me from buying a new set off Ebay. He was also very friendly and so was another gentleman who I assume is a bike mechanic. This is not a bike shop where you have to worry about pretentious douches. Friendly staff, no frills, nice little neighborhood shop. read more

Big fan of these guys. I showed up today without calling, just as Rich, Paul, & Louis had their coats on and were eager to go home. Gate was closed halfway... And without a second thought, they accommodated me. Within ten minutes, my flat tire was fixed and my bike was good to go! This is my second time there and I always leave feeling satisfied and welcome. They are good conversationalists as well; they share stories and are interested in their customers' lives while the bike is in repair. Wonderful service! I'll be back! read more

Nice bike shop with a personalized touch.

The best service. They tuned up my bike although it needed a lot of work in only 3 days since they knew I am leaving town. wonderful staff, wonderful service. Definitely recommend them. read more

Complete garbage. Guy told me he overhauled my entire bike and charged me nearly three hundred dollars. Here's the funny part: I'm a veteran bike messenger of seven years and worked on my own ride for just as long. I got sick of working on my own horse and thought it'd be nice to grab a pro... Within three months of the "overhaul" both my brake lines snapped, in traffic. I told these clowns what had happened and they claimed "foreign components are unreliable". So why source from them?? For one. Dude wanted to charge me fifty dollars to replace the failed brake lines that he himself installed. Nah, bought some cables for ten bucks and did it myself. This is what kills me: When I pulled out the cables they were bone dry...any first moment mechanic knows to grease a damn break line. They failed because shoddy work. Dude told me I needed a new stem, no...I needed to adjust the stem I had. This gentlemen wanted to charge me a hundred bucks...the work took 45 seconds... Bottom line: These people are trash...told me they pulled my bike apart and handled developing issues. Please. I just pulled the bike apart myself and it's an absolute disgrace. Lied about the overhaul. The bottom bracket, seat post and headset were clearly not overhauled. Disappointing liars who take advantage of people not knowing about bikes. I really wanted to like this shop read more

These are the people you want to be working on your bike! I have used the shop for at least ten years and never been disappointed. There is a catch; the catch is that they are sometimes so eager to please clients they quote repair times that are not achievable and they don't have enough staff to make the phone calls that would buffer the news of a delayed pickup time. This is an "old time" bicycle shop. Talented technicians who love bikes and will do their best to provide you with the least expensive safe, functioning (they guarantee all their parts and repairs), bicycle. I prefer this experience to some other slick, commissioned staff who have not ridden a two-wheeled vehicle since their eleventh birthday. read more

An overall very solid experience with some serious work done on a vintage bike. The initial aim was to just get the bike to work again, and aside from a totally unforeseen issue (pedal broke off from rust damage), they were able to work through everything that needed to be done. - Their level of craft is impeccable. - Initial timeframe given to me was 2-4 days, but they had it done the next day. No promises on if that's common, but it certainly helped my own experience. - They went beyond the initial scope to fix a few other things that weren't estimated out. The total was about the amount of a car payment by the time it was all said and done, but significant work was required. Labor costs are fair for the work, especially at their level. - They sold me on some components that were a bit more expensive, but always for a very good reason. Rust-proof chain and thicker-material tubes--all easily justifiable. The prices themselves have a slight profit creep, but they're a repair shop, and that's to be expected. My own use case was for repair/reform rather than for sales, so I can't comment on that. They're not pushy; they're honest. Definitely not a hipster spot, which is fantastic. These are totally the kind of people you want to fix your bike in the first place--they care about their craft. read more

I've been looking around to buy a new bike and checked out quite a few places, and the reviews here helped steer me to Robert's. So today I went to the shop with the whole family in tow, we got there right at noon when they opened, and they could not have been any friendlier. Right away Hector began to help me with my purchase, and when I told him that I really didn't know all that much about bikes, other than how to ride one, he was totally unfazed and continued to ask me questions about what I wanted to do with the bike, where I was riding, etc. After finding a bike that fit (I'm 6'5") he got it all adjusted so that I could take it for a test spin around the block. While I was gone he and my family chatted ab out riding, and what bikes they might be interested in. On my return, and my positive review of said bike, he took it in the back to get it all fit just so. After fitting me for a helmet and graciously accepting my payment ('natch) I was on the road with my new ride. I can only review the service I received from Robert's and my new bike guru Hector, but it was outstanding, and I would recommend the store to anyone looking for a new bike to upgrade from their big box special. After I chose my bike Hector took me through all of the steps on the quick-release, locking it, even lubing the chain when and where and how often. Maybe this is the kind of service you get at every bike shop where you buy a bike, and if so, great, but if not, do yourself a favor and head to Rodgers Park when you need a new bike or some bike repair. I'm so pleased with them that I'm going to make this our new family go-to bike store, and hopefully bring the wife back soon to get her a new ride. read more

Totally got a flat one night after riding my bike to wrigley field. Totally lame. Walked up to Robert's, as it's the closest bike shop to my house. Guess what? The tire was punctured, too! Great, awesome, love it. Well, they fixed the tire in about 20 minutes, and while I waited, one of the clerks hooked me up with a helmet, and gave me a little lesson about how to fit it properly to protect the dome. The dudes working there are quite friendly, making jokes and alla that. After dropping about 60 bones, I rode home on my new phat tire with new shiny brain bucket. Solid. Check these dudes out if you wanna fix up your ride. read more

Was looking for another local shop ( love to support local) and was calling around for a standard Tune up. I called on Monday around 11am and spoke to Robert on the phone who shared that if I dropped my bike off by noon I could have it by Saturday which was better than anywhere else which was about 3 weeks around and his prices were lower. I ended up visiting the shop and it felt like an old bike shop. I love the atmosphere and I spoke with Robert for a good 20 minutes. He was very nice as well as the other staff in the store. I left the store and received a call around 3 pm saying my bike was already done ( they explained the work) and there was no charge on the bike ( it is pretty new- less than a year old) but any other place would gladly charge me the tune-up fee. I was impressed with the work and care for the customer. It is a true local bike shop that cares about the community and being a part of it. If you are looking for a bike shop, I highly recommend it. His prices are also lower than competitors anywhere which is nice too. 5/5! read more

I wanted to like this place. It is a bike shop in my neighborhood, plus my neighbors bought their bikes here. However, I made three trips here, and when it came down to actually buying a used bike, it was cheaper to buy a new one at Rudy's on Irving Park. Roberts sells their used bikes with minimal fixes. In other words, "as is." The bike I was interested in had mismatched worn thin tires and poor pedals. Roberts would not budge on the price at all even though I was going to buy new tires, pedals, and grips. Disappointed, I just left. Maybe they are good for new bikes, but their prices are not competitive with other bike shops. Bummer. read more

Got free air from them, and they greased my chain while they were at it. Friendly place!

With the plethora of bike shops in Chicago, I wouldn't recommend this one. Without writing a lengthy review, I'll say I was quoted a different price when I dropped the bike off than when I picked it up. I left the shop agreeing to $30 less than the amount they told me when they called. When they called (three days after it was supposed to be done) to tell me it was complete and charge me more money, they also suggested I get more work, something to do with the hub. I asked what the part did, why it needed $20 worth of oiling and the gentlemen couldn't really explain, he compared it to a car (which I know less about than bikes) and left me still kind of confused, so I just left it alone. No fun. read more

Took my bike here to have a flat fixed. They also told me my tired needed to be straightened. Wow what I difference that made! My bike rode so much better after that. They did a great job. I will be taking my bike back in for a tune up soon. read more

My new-to-me Dutch cargo bike got a flat, and when I walked it to the closest bike shop, (not Roberts) the owner wouldn't even let me in the door. "We don't work on those," he flatly stated. Okay. Well, my options were limited. The bike is a monster, over 50 pounds, and now the inner tube had wrapped around the center of the wheel making rolling impossible. I was about a mile or so away from the next closest bike shop, Roberts Cycle, a mile or so from from home, and it was a 90+ degree sunny day. I called them up. I was sweaty, dejected, and desperate to find a place close to home to work on this beast. They answered on the second ring. "Roberts Cycle." "Uh, yeah, I have a Dutch bike with a flat and I was wondering if-" "We work on all bikes here." "...you work on that sort of bike because I-" "We work on all bikes here." "Wait, you do?" "Yep." "And you're open? I can bring it in?" "Yep." Even though I had to hire a Lincoln Navigator uber to haul my bike up Clark Street to Roberts, I did with confidence because they work on all bikes. THEY WORK ON ALL BIKES! They were helpful, friendly, and without bike prejudice. They fixed my bike fast and replaced the inner tubes and tape on both tires with something stronger. I'm thrilled to have a local bike shop like Roberts Cycle. read more

Just moved to the neighborhood and needed a tuneup and a fix of a flat. I took the bike in on a Saturday morning, they looked it over, told me what they'd do and what they'd charge and that I'd have it in a week. Guess what? Five days later they call me and say, "your bike is ready." They did exactly what they said they would do, no more, no less. No upselling, no overcharging. Sure, they're a couple of goofballs, but they get the job done. And I'm happy to take my bike here. They've been in the neighborhood for years -- my grandfather bought a bike for my father here when he was a kid in the '50s. read more

I really liked the experience of buying my bike here; they made sure everything was set up correctly, and told me to stop back in a few months for a free tune up. Unfortunately my bike was stolen after 6 weeks (frickin' Rogers Park). Maybe I'll come back and buy a used one. read more

Never been here, and now I never will. I had purchased a Groupon to Roberts Cycle, and was excited to bring my bike in for a tuneup. The Groupon Q&A specifically said that it could be used for services. Tune ups are services, yes? Well, apparently the owner had an issue with Groupon and didn't ask them to correct the Q&A to note that the groupon could ONLY be used for accessories and not services. He also could have put a notice on his own website somewhere. Fairly simple things, I'd think. However, instead of politely explaining this over the phone when I called this afternoon? He just started yelling that this was not true and that Groupon had screwed up. Well, you know what buddy? I'll continue to use Groupon because they're helpful and gave me my money back. I will NEVER set foot in your shop because you're a douchecanoe who doesn't seem to care about getting new customers. Take the blame out on who you're mad at instead of me and you might have gotten a new customer. Instead you got a crappy review. Good job. read more

I love this place. I've bought 2 bikes from them over the years and they offer amazing service. Totally recommend them.

Brought my bike in for a much needed tuneup. After being out in the elements all winter they were still able to save my chain which in turned cost me less money than what I expected. It took them a week and it was ready for pick up! I definitely think they are inexpensive, nice, and just overall knowledgeable about everything that had to do with bikes. I have already recommended them to friends. read more

Quality, long-enduring independent business still very devoted to quality service and product. The owner and his staff work hard to keep their doors open despite being taken advantage of by big media or overshadowed by large and less accountable franchises like Kozy's. I recommend patronizing this Roberts bike shop. read more

This is a nice place to get a bike. You can all ways work a deal with them. The best tip i can give any one is BRING CASH!

A phenomenal bike shop: friendly, honest, and remarkably inexpensive. Unlike many places, they'll try to fix before replacing, and their mechanical work is top-notch. An invaluable asset for riders of any level. read more

Today was the first time I had been to this bike shop and I'm really glad I went here. I just happened to get, who I believe was the owner to assist me. I was dropping off a bike that had not been ridden for at least five years as it is a second bike. I wanted a tune-up and to update the wheel locks etc. The guy was super friendly and knew what he was talking about. He showed me exactly what I needed and I was in and out in 20 minutes.. Look forward to doing more business with them which is perfect as they are very close to home. read more

Just started using them after a friend recommendation. The team at here is consistently friendly, helpful, honest and knowledgeable. Highly recommended. There is no question I will work to bring my teams needs here going forward. read more

I love this place! I walked in to check out the bikes after my bike had been stolen and I have to say everyone in the place was so friendly and helpful. This is the kind of place I would recommend everyone check them out! read more