Classic California bike shop Hank & Frank closing – Business News
After more than a century in business, and numerous wheels in movement, a Bay Area establishment is closing up shop.
Hank & Frank Bicycles, based in 1925, introduced this week that its closing day of business will likely be August 31.
According to the shop’s web site, “This decision comes with full hearts, deep gratitude, and an enduring love for the community that has carried us for generations.”
Bay Area establishment Hank & Frank Bicycles, a shop serving cyclists since 1925, is closing its doorways for good on August 31. Google Maps
Per the Hank & Frank’s web site, clients previous and new are invited to go to the shop between now and August 31. Instagram/@Hankandfrankbikes
Hank & Frank was based in 1925 on East 14th Street in Oakland; after a number of location adjustments, the shop discovered its everlasting home in Lafayette, the place it has operated for the previous 52 years.
Dale Dryer took over the business from the eponymous Hank 57 years in the past, carrying ahead “a tradition of craftsmanship, honesty, and neighborly care.”
Dale’s son Frank is the present proprietor of the shop and steward of that proud custom, having spent his childhood building trikes and sweeping the shop flooring earlier than shopping for the Lafayette location from his father in 1991.
“I was born into it,” Dryer instructed the San Francisco Chronicle.
To that finish, Dryer’s resolution to close the storefront shouldn’t be the outcome of financial battle nor the crushing competitors of online retailers.
Rather, the building not too long ago acquired new house owners who wish to convert his space into a dance studio, a alternative that Dryer took as a signal to retire, or cling up his wheels, so to talk.
“I’m pretty sad that I’m leaving,” he mentioned. “But I need to retire. If I had a kid, his name would be Hank, and he’d be taking over the business.”
Dryer’s resolution to close the storefront shouldn’t be the outcome of financial battle nor the crushing competitors of online retailers. Google Maps
In his farewell message, Dryer shared that his life’s mission has been to “help people experience the freedom, confidence, connection, and joy that a bicycle can bring. Whether it was a child’s first ride, a family’sweekend adventure, a commuter’s daily route, or a lifelong cyclist’s next great bike, we have believed that every rider deserves care, respect, and guidance they can trust.”
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Dryer mentioned that over time he’s seen opponents come and go, however clients stay. That loyalty is owed partially to the free lifetime of tuneups that include each bike buy.
To be sure that care continues, Dryer is handing over the perk to a mom-and-pop shop in Walnut Creek.
Per the Hank & Frank’s web site, clients previous and new are invited to go to the shop between now and August 31 to: “Pick out your next quality bicycle, schedule service with our exceptional mechanics, share a memory, a story, or a simple hello, and let us thank you in person for being part of our journey.”
Some clients have completed simply that, with a number of leaving notes of appreciation for Dryer and sort phrases of encouragement for his retirement.
“It has been our honor to help keep you moving for so many years,” the retirement announcement continues.
“More than anything, we hope you know how deeply grateful we are—for every mile shared, every relationship built, and every moment of trust you placed in us.”
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