Archer Bicycle

They are honest. Brought my bike in for an issue I misdiagnosed. They let me know the fix was literally tightening a brake adjustment screw and did not charge me. Tipped them for their help. Great experience!

I feel lucky to have access to a bicycle repair shop of this high quality and satisfying format in downtown Oakland, conveniently located near the 12th Street BART Station. Greg Archer is everything you want in a mechanic: inviting and conversationally goofy on one hand, focused and stepwise-thinking on the other. The shop policy not to take work that cannot be completed within one day means that Greg is always available to fix your bike unless it is “totaled” in some way. In my case, Greg took a non-standard rear hub overhaul repair and turned the work around within one day. While I brought it back due to a new issue with the hub, he walked me through his diagnostic, made a small adjustment to his earlier repair due to the non-standard design of the hub (Onyx if you’re curious), and re-aligned my rear derailleur hanger in the process, all on the spot. I’m now riding error-free! I’m glad Greg was the mechanic who got me there. Greg is an incredible problem-solver and an invaluable resource to the Oakland community. His shop is also a cool space to check out. Stop by with your bike!

Businesses like these aren't really around anymore. Super honest, warm and helpful. I know I trust a mechanic when they encourage me to do things that would make them less money. Came in thinking I needed new tires (prepared to spend $100+ not including labor), Greg told me the tires had years of life left and told me I should just continue using them. He also told me my wheel bearings were going out, and unfortunately the ultimate fix to that is to get new wheels. Despite him having some in stock he could sell me, he tightened them up the best he can and told me the wheel would still last perhaps a year or more and I should use them till then. He probably could have made at least $300 more out of me but he didn't.