stones is a topnotch traditional bike shop. John is an excellent mechanic with deep experience, hes the guy youre looking for to sort out issues. as well stones has many handcrafted waterford, gunnar and bob jackson bikes and framesets. these seem like a true bargain, especially considering prices in todays bike market. five stars! read more

Easily the most enjoyable experience I've ever had with a bike shop. I worked with John to purchase a new bike, and he was absolutely incredible every step of the way. He has such a wealth of knowledge and helped me dial in everything to build up a new bike - frame selection, components, fit, riding style. John was very communicative the entire time, pricing was super fair, and I could not be happier with my bike and the whole process of getting to this point. read more

This is the best bike repair shop in Alameda. They do very fast repairs for reasonable price plus they always do few little things for free. They will also give you advice how to maintain your bike. I highly recommend them. read more

Stone's Cyclery - They installed very nice basket storage on my daughter's bike - Bikes Near Me - Alameda, California

Smart, accommodating, and friendly; OPEN LATE!!! Made our day coming in this wonderful shop. Looking forward to bring our fixie and a pump for repair here. He also has a GREAT variety of used bikes. Stone's Cyclery is an absolute gem!! read more

Zen and the art of bicycle maintenance 6 outta 5 stars silky silky smooth John is the best bike maintenance guy I've ever had and he's got a customer for life in me read more

Just had my bike tune'd up after a few years of riding. John offered exquisite service, he even takes the time to explain why and how he adjusted the bike. A true master of craft. Greatly appreciate him, we're lucky to have him in Alameda. (Turns out Alameda Bicycle put different size tires on my bike :(). Afterwards, felt like a whole new bike and a much smoother ride. read more

I had the worst bike luck a week ago. On my way to catch the ferry from SF to Alameda, my rear tire blew out (pinch). Luckily there's usually a bike shop within a 15 min radius in SF. Got it fixed in a jiff and then finally made it to Alameda. After a 20 min ride, my rear tire blew out AGAIN. I walked my bike to Stone's and en-route my front tire ALSO deflated. I definitely had a ghost that day because in the 5 years I've owned this bike this has never happened to me. I arrived at Stone's and told John my woes. He explained everything he was doing and gave me his theories as to why the tires blew out (likely a combination of installation and the deep groove of the rim and over inflating my tires). Totally fixed the issue--fingers crossed because I haven't had a flat in a week! Highly recommend, definitely quality work and really in-depth knowledge. read more

Amazing service! Repaired my back tire the same day with proper Covid19 precautions. Highly recommend :)

Real nice guy workin here. I came here today, telling him i put my tire and tube in wrong but it was actually one of the fellas at Alameda Bicycle who might have put it on wrong. I came to see if i just needed air pumped or if it was really put on wrong and it was the latter! He gave great service and was very nice :) I should go here more often than Alameda Bicycle. You can tell this guy has a passion and cares a lot about his craft. read more

As a cyclist of many years now, I'm fully aware of the snobbishness that can go with working at a bike shop. People tend to just think, "Hey, I work at a bike shop now, that automatically means I'm cool and better than you." This seems to be TOTALLY true of Stone's... Both times I came in here I was completely ignored (not to mention that each time I stood facing the employees, looking at them in the face, waiting for them to turn around and greet/help me). The first time around I noticed the prices are way off the chart (fitting for this snooty bike shop) even for quality bicycles. The second time [my girlfriend and] I waited for about 2-3 minutes (knowing they seem to tend to ignore walk-in customers), then just left, very annoyed. Perhaps its because I don't "look rich"? Meh, F them. No one I know likes this place either, I don't see what all the high ratings are about. There are much better bikes shops in Alameda, one even on the same street as this place. read more

When Linda and I found Stone's in 1997 when thinking of moving to Alameda, we knew we had found our new "bicycle home." The wonderful smell of English leather (Brooks saddles) permeates the shop, accenting the visual delight of fine lugged steel frames and historic bikes. Dennis Stone, whose dad started Stone's in 1943, grew up in the bike business, making his own derailleurs and sponsoring races long ago. He knows bike fit and he knows frame design, so he can set up men and women on a nice road, cyclo-cross, single-speed, or commute bike much better than most shops. (He helped immeasurably with support and suggestions when I rode two SF-LA AIDS rides years ago, and helped Linda achieve a better fit on her top-line bike.) If, like me, you like and own older bikes with steel frames, Dennis can help with the expertise, parts, and components to fix them. He recently re-introduced Schwinn bikes to his collection of mostly higher-end steel road, track, and fixie frames, components, and accessories. Dennis is a no-nonsense and straightforward guy with a wealth of knowledge about both modern and historic bikes. Stone's, while not known as a place to find used or bargain bikes, offers excellent value for the money you spend. Jason and Paul are learning a lot working for Dennis. I hope they are paying attention to his more gracious and welcoming treatment of shop customers, too. (This is my one negative comment, mostly about Jason: his passion and intelligence are undisputed, but he can be hard to take.) Stone's is well worth the trip, just for the eye candy and the smells, but it can make a believer out of you, too--especially in made-to-measure steel bikes and in leather saddles. read more

The first thing you must know about Stone's Cyclery is that if you're new to the biking world, this place is probably not for you. Stone's takes cycling very seriously and they have a lot of steel and hand-made bikes, often imported from Europe. Everyone knows Specialized, Trek, Giant, and Schwinn but only the hardcore know Gunnar and Waterford. You can custom order these bikes based on your specs but it's going to cost you no less than $2000. What most larger stores lack in customer service is where Stone's shines. If you want the latest composite frames with beryllium strips in the bottom bracket added for stiffness, this is not the place for you. If you want the old school frames with classic geometry and awesome Campagnolo parts, seriously consider making the trek to Stone's. After I get my dream Orbea or Cervelo and ride those for a few years, I'll definitely consider a custom bike at Stone's. read more

Terrible business practices. Do not shop here. In February 2012, we saw a vintage bike for sale in the shop. I said I'd like to buy it (even though it was incredibly overpriced, it's what we wanted). The guy (who was not very customer service oriented at all) said he needed to replace the tubes and do a couple of other things, which would add to the price, which I agreed to. He made out a receipt, and I asked if he wanted me to pay now or later? He said either, so I said I'd just pay upon pickup. He said it would be ready the following Saturday. Unfortunately, something came up for me Saturday so I didn't make it in. They are closed Sunday, and Monday was a holiday. So Tuesday morning, we went to get it, and he said it had been sold. What? Really? They never called me (yes they had my number), and sold it --when? During the two days they were closed? And when I asked to speak to the owner to complain despite his feeble apology, he said "it won't do any good." There are two other bike shops in Alameda. Go to one of them instead. Stay away from these people. read more

Dennis Stone continues his family tradition of running a most excellent bike shop which was originally a toy store. The shop is perfectly sized for Alameda. It harkens an era where getting to know your customers is paramount to selling them anything they'll buy. The inventory of bikes is primarily that of the tried and true, chromoly steel. Look around at the classic bikes and frames around the shop and you'll see that he's been around in the business long enough to avoid selling anything that can be perceived as gimmicky. New bikes and frames such builders as Waterford, Gunnar and Bob Jackson are prominently displayed. There is also an area for used or consignment bikes where great values can often be seen. Another great feature is a closeout area of bicycle parts or apparel. When it comes to servicing bicycles, Dennis is straightforward and timely. The best thing that I can say is that our friendship does not get in the way of getting my bike back on time. read more

Yummy yummy bike bits. If steel frames, lugs, leather saddles, old skool are your thing, you owe yourself a pilgrimage to this shop. Gawk at the glorious selection of Bob Jackson, Waterford and Gunnar goods, not to mention classics like Paramounts, Jack Taylors and other beauties that happen to take temporary residence here. Dennis Stone is an honest and easy-going kind of guy, who's not wrapped up by the bike "biz", which may explain his selection of merchandise. He runs his shop like he was in a small town where everybody knows each other -- and that (for a big city guy like me) is ironically comforting. If Dennis isn't around, count on Jason to hook you up with what you need. That guy really works there for the LOVE of it, and he owns some of the most disgustingly sexy bikes I've seen -- ever. All from Stone's of course. One star knocked off only because I was not satisifed by a tune-up job he performed on my tandem. Not only was he difficult to reach by phone to make the appointment, he nearly forgot to perform a derailleur adjustment I specifically requested, and he couldn't do anything (refused, actually, but I respect his reasons) about maintaining the hydraulic caliper brakes. read more

Stones is an institution in the East Bay bicycle world. Dennis is not there to be your best friend, but if it happens you are a fortunate soul. He runs an honest bike shop, part museum because of its history and its connection to former Olympians. Great bike shopping experience; may even be a good stop during the Tour de CA next month. If your bike needs repair, you'll get an honest answer whether it's worth the effort. If it's a challenge, Dennis is resourceful and will figure it out and may have the old part in his dungeon. Happy trails. read more

Came in today to help fix a crankset issue that arose last night while riding 2 miles away from home. Turns out I had to replace a crankset bolt and also had to walk those two miles plus, in learning from this issue arising, what part I needed to get and how to go about obtaining it. I first looked online to see what specific part was needed. I then called around bike shops to see who was open today. Stone Cyclery was open and I was relieved to hear that they were open and able to assist in my bike issue. I came into the store after calling beforehand to check on being actually "open" compared to saying a place/location is "open," only to find out, upon being in front of the facility/store being closed. I salute to the owner/worker for being open during these present times. I now recommend calling beforehand for instructions on being able to go into the store. I love this bike shop. Stone's Cyclery is amazing. Keep up the great work. Thank you for your service. read more

Yes, I had the previous "grumpy old man" experience that kept me from going in to the shop, and the hours never seemed to coincide with a working person anyway, so my loyalty lies with the other LBS on High and Santa Clara. BUT, now that new management has taken over, this is now my go-to shop for parts and service on my 1974 Brussels-bought Peugeot PX-10. Mac is friendly and knows his stuff around bikes. If Dennis turned you off to Stone's previously, stop in for a fresh look and drool over all the bike porn hanging in the shop. Great experience and uber knowledgeable! read more

Stone's is great, they tuned up my Klein and were able to save my rear Mavic rim by salvaging parts. This is a great bike shop who really know their stuff, not your typical bike shop. Your not going to find your major name brands in here other than a few Schwinn's , they deal in custom one off frames from companies like Gunnar and Bob Jackson, all laced up with the finest components. I would label them the likes of an old school Chopper shop, not really the kind of place for tire kickers and weekend warriors, even though the staff is friendly and engaging. They will have my business as long as i live in the area. Thanks again Dennis. I am sure some of the sour reviews given are by typical know it all's who do more time talking than listening. read more

John at Stones Cyclery really makes you feel welcome. Even when I just come in for questions or advice he always has time to offer great customer service! I've tried a couple different shops on the island and Stones is by far my favorite! How a business treats me as a person is #1 on my list. Bought a new bike there that was recommended and the wise words paid off, my favorite I've ever owned. Thanks!! Keep up the great work! read more

Let me start by saying in a previous life I worked for both bike shops and industry manufactures. I only mention this to impress that I understand the importance of the customer, customer service and the all to common shot giving's of the bicycle industry. I should also say this is only the second review I have ever taken the time to write. Stone's Cycle and the people that work there are amazing! I wanted to buy a new commuter bike. Something that was a bit special, hand built, American made and fun to ride. After many stops around the bay I popped into Stone's. When I walked in early on a Tuesday morning I met Dennis who greeted me gave me and passed on the low down about the shop while trying to answer all my quirky questions. He was super chill, low pressure and obviously has the highest bicycle IQ in the bay area. I was so impressed. Dennis gave me a lot to think about but totally stoked me on his shop. 3 hours later I went back. Dennis was gone but Paul stepped in to help me dial in exactly what I was looking for. Again..super chill, patient, asked a lot of questions and didn't make me feel rushed. I couldn't believe a bike shop like this still existed. In the end Paul spent three hours with me while answering the phone and continuing to help every customer that came in the door. I ended up with a bike that I love , a bike that fits perfect, a bike that works and a bike that will last me many years. If you are looking for a great bicycle shop, trustworthy bicycle advice or a glimpse into the past and a better way of doing things..Stop by Stone's! read more

These guys are really good. They take cycling very seriously. Some of the other stores in town seem more casual/hobby which is fine but when you have a real safety concern, you feel like you're in good hands with Stone's. read more

Visited Stone's this morning, for the last time. Went in to price out a replacement chain for my bike and the necessary chain breaker to do the job at home. They told me $$40 total...which was more than twice what Walmart was charging (i checked with them and and Amazon as a reference point), I then asked how much to do the work themselves...he says $40 plus the $20 for the chain. So $60 to replace a chain on a $200 bike. I asked if he was sure that's how much it would cost because I've done the job several times and it takes between 10-20 minutes to complete. He had the nerve to tell me to go do it myself. I told him not to be a jerk. When I told him that Walmart had the same items for less than half...he said he wouldn't compete with Walmart....Whether he makes the decision or not to compete...he is in competition with them. So, even though I would have much rather supported a local company like Stone's...there is no way I will ever give my money to such a smug arrogant operation. Stone's can eat it...and BTW i also went to Alameda Bicycles and they actually had the same prices but I have never had a bad experience in their store. They have always been super cool and helpful. Don't give a store like Stones your money...they don't care about you. read more

John really excels in customer service and knowledge. He stayed a bit past closing time helping me find the perfect fit (which involved lots of work switching saddles around), really went the distance to make the price affordable, and even offered to deliver. Seemed very genuine and friendly. I'd highly recommend his shop. read more

I happened to get a pinch flat just down the block and decided to walk in and get it repaired right away since it seemed to be so convenient. I walked in with my bike and was left just standing there. Dennis was helping another customer when I first entered, but skipped over me to help the next person who had entered 10 minutes after I did. Neither of his two employees acknowledged me. I ended up taking the bus home and fixing the flat myself. read more

Stopped by here thinking I needed to have my bike brakes replaced. The guy there spent a few mins trying to figure out the problem only to decide I did need new brakes, then realized there was just an issue with one of the springs. He could've easily lied about the work I needed done but didn't. HUGE props to that. Reasonable fee for time spent working on my bike, a quick education on some things I need to watch out for and I was out of there happy. Highly recommend these guys! read more

I thought John was very helpful. I bought a Kryptonite bike lock for right under $40 which is around what my research shows as the going rate for it's type. He was tolerant of my incessant questions and showed my the proper way to lock up my bike. He also had my bring my bike inside the shop to put air in my tires and informed me on how often I should do the same. I'm a new rider so having helpful input is much appreciated. read more

I just found my bike shop! Came over from the City to ride with some friends and when we were passing through Alameda a spoke broke. When you hear: "Everything happens for a purpose.". Believe it. John repaired the wheel while I waited and even checked the other spokes tension so it would not happen again. He treated me as if I were some team rider. ...and I got to be in the Disneyland of steel bikes. Yup. Steel bike heaven. Did I mention that I my steed is steel? Boy oh boy is there some seriously beautifully crafted bikes. ...John is patient and generous with his knowledge and I left with much more than a new spoke. Worth you while read more

This is one of the best bike shops in the Bay Area. Here's the secret I have found to working with Dennis. Have a good idea of what it is you want, who it's for, what your going to use it for, your budget. Dennis only sells high quality goods, no cheap stuff. If it's repair parts, bring in your broken stuff, and he'll match it up from is vast inventory. Then when you walk in, take a seat and talk to him about what you want. This is especially good for women and novice cyclists. Works every time even when he's busy. He really is a good guy. read more

Grumpy old man lost a sale today because his poor customer service I wanted info on repairs and to buy an inexpensive lock. With stern voice was told "Only road bikes" proceded to hover over me the like a security guard rather help me shop. Guess he figured didn't have money or I wasn't going to buy anything. Had cash in hand but went somewhere else because of him. As I walked out disgusted a passer by suggest I go around the corner to Alameda Bicycle as they were professional, she was right. read more

This shop is rad! Bought my bike here today and couldn't be more excited! Dennis knows what he's doing. Honest and not much to it. People that have reviewed this shop spend too much time reading in between the lines. He's got a pretty neat selection of bikes to feast your eyes on. Also he repairs bikes in the back. Looking forward to go in next time. read more

I brought in my cheap-o "mom" bike I purchased at Sports Authority a couple years ago. The older gentleman was really helpful putting together the upgrades I want (a rack on the back, etc.). He kept me from going totally bananas with stuff I didn't need and the tune-up price is the best in town. Just what I was looking for. A shop with integrity, close to home and helpful. read more

I had a busted tire. And I know NOTHING about bikes. I walked in with a tube I had bought somewhere else because I (foolishly) thought I could fix the issue at home. The older gentleman working there didn't miss a step, installed my elsewhere tube, a new tire, and had me out the door with a smile in less than 10 minutes. You won't get a lot of pomp and circumstance here but you'll get a lot of knowledge and quick service. read more

John is awesome. He knows his bikes. He can offer sage advice to the expert rider (I heard him talking to some of his regulars), and has the patience to listen to those of us who are not there yet. He carries very cool bikes if you like classic designs (Waterford, Bob Jackson) and has amazing vintage bikes on display in his shop. He is also very happy to special order whatever you need. When my bicycle seemed irreparable, he was able to bring it back to perfect operation. This is my new favorite bike store. I will return for all of my bike servicing needs and when I'm ready to step up to a new ride, I will definitely be asking John for his help. read more

My husband came here to get a bike so that he can ride to the gym while I am at work (we share a car). He went in, told them what he wanted, and came out with the perfect bike for a price he could live with. He liked the to-the-point service and the overall vibe of the place. read more

Cool shop. But the hours of operation don't reflect that the owner cares much about catering to folks who need a shop open during the lunch hour, and once the clock strikes 5 pm. That's when regular folk can do business during the week. Stone's fails fullly on both counts. It seems the tail wants to wag my dog, and I won't be back after having wasted a couple of lunch hours to go get some bike stuff done, only to find the shop closed on both occasions. It wasted my time, and my chance to have lunch, too! The other thing - there are frames hanging in there a decade or more still at full tilt MSRP. It just seems Stone's is out of touch. What folks need is a shop that's open at noon and stays open until 6 or 7 pm. That still give the operator time to get his OWN personal stuff done before going in to work. Frankly, I'd love to have that schedule. read more

These guys are fabulous. Bought a couple of tubes there a few weeks ago to fix a flat and have a spare. The new tube had a slow leak 25 miles later and I wondered if it might be defective. I took it in and they installed a new tube, gave me a detailed lesson on how to check tires and replace tubes. Even though the "old" new tube had a hole in it that was almost certainly caused by a puncture, there was nothing in the tire so the tube, installation and the lesson were delivered at the unbeatable price of $0. read more

John at Stones is truly McGiver. He was able to diagnose a shifting problem with my DI2 and made the adjustments. Top notch service. Have made the shop my go to shop for everything. read more

Just had my Bike Friday tuned up. John did a great job--the bike hasn't worked this well in years! And he gave me some good tips about riding in my first Century. Thanks, John! read more

Stone's Cyclery is the bicycle shop I have been looking for! They are welcoming, provide great service at a reasonable price, willing to answer all questions in respectful way and then impart even more of their wide and useful knowledge. I left with more bike smarts and feeling really good about giving them my business! read more