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Switchback Gear Exchange
2166 Plainfield Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505, United States
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Switchback Gear Exchange
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Su
Review №1

My daughter took me here last Saturday for a latte, while I was in GR for the Creston Neighborhood Garden tour. (which was wonderful). They by far, made me one of the most Delicious and Smooth straight up lattes...... I have ever had. Go in for a coffee.....you will be grateful you did. Thank you.....Ill be back.

Jo
Review №2

I can’t believe I’ve never stopped in here before. I went in here for the first time today and they have a great cafe, I’ll 100% be back.

sa
Review №3

Great Spot to support local. My man Ryan was super helpful and personable when helping me get the right bike for my riding style and skill level. Wouldnt take a bike anywhere else for a tune up. Customer for life.

Da
Review №4

Great coffeeshop in the Creston neighborhood with a patio!

Ja
Review №5

Im thankful to have a bike shop like Switchback in the neighborhood. Ryan and his mechanics are always willing to help answer questions and are an awesome resource. Great shop ran by great folks!

Du
Review №6

This place is a gem! Best coffee around, and the space is awesome with a gorgeous patio, good selection of bicycles and equipment, friendly knowledgeable staff.

Za
Review №7

Really appreciate their expertise and advice! The new cafe addition is awesome with great coffee (and beer coming!)!

Da
Review №8

Excellent customer service, honesty and integrity!

Br
Review №9

Friendly and helpful wrenches in the shop, great baristas pulling excellent espresso in the cafe. Whats not to love??

La
Review №10

Just bought a bike from the store. Would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a bicycle! Very nice and very knowledgeable on their stuff!

Ca
Review №11

Please stop reading reviews, and get yourself to Switchback! Great local bike shop with knowledgeable staff. If you are looking for coffee- theyve got you covered! My experience has been extremely welcoming and friendly, and the coffee is delicious.

Je
Review №12

Great customer service. Highly recommended.

La
Review №13

Grabbed a Cafe Miel today on a work break, and it was delicious! Great coffee and great friendly service. Im so happy to have Switchback in the neighborhood!

Ma
Review №14

Great staff. Happy have them in the neighborhood!

Ro
Review №15

Great place ALWAYS, now theres caffeine... and 🍺 🍻 & outdoor seating oh my!!!

Ic
Review №16

Excellent service. Last minute realized we had flats. Took two bikes in and right away they were able to fix.20$ for two new tubes plus installation. Yes! Please and thank you so much.

Ma
Review №17

Thank you! Words arent enough to explain how you have blessed my wife and I! This will be our 2nd and definately not the last bike we will get from you! Everyone needs Switchback!!

De
Review №18

Great bike place that now has warm drinks. Hot chocolate was tasty!

Jo
Review №19

Amazing shop for all your outdoor needs, seller and reseller of outdoor gear including camping, hiking, biking and more! I hear theres some sweet news coming soon too!

Ja
Review №20

Ryan and his team are awesome! We really appreciate having this great business in the area!

Ca
Review №21

Super friendly, helpful staff and a great local resource for biking, camping, and coffee! I cant recommend Switchback enough!!

Ch
Review №22

Very friendly staff. They helped me solve a problem with my bike and they serve fresh coffee.

Da
Review №23

Great coffee, great bikes, and great people. This coffeeshop/ bikeshop/ growing community hub Is a fantastic addition to the Creston neighborhood

An
Review №24

Excellent service!

Go
Review №25

Always great service. Good selection of new and used equipment with most reasonable prices. Everyone should come here first to see if they have what they want before going to the mall.

Ju
Review №26

Extremely friendly, honest and helpful. They didnt pressure you, they let you test bikes out and even adjusted seat for me. Great Service, Great Deals

Jo
Review №27

Ryan was so helpful! I was looking for some warm active gloves, and he pointed me in the right direction. He even helped me trim off the packaging since I was going to use them right then.Super nice service, and relaxed and clean atmosphere.

Je
Review №28

Fantastic people, great shop, convenient location. Check them out!

Co
Review №29

Great coffee and people ... oh and bicycles!

Ke
Review №30

Impressed with the customer service here. The crew was super friendly and helpful. I recently decided to get into backpacking, so when shopping for gear, I was worried about feeling judged about not knowing what I want, or even being scammed into buying things that I dont need. It was quite the opposite!They seem like true outdoor enthusiasts and answered any questions I had. Also its great deals! Low prices for good quality gear

Do
Review №31

Switchback is a fantastic local gear and bike shop. Great deals on quality, lightly used gear! Ryan and co are knowledgeable and friendly. If you need a bike, bike repairs, parts, sleeping bag, tent, jacket, boots, backpack, etc., check them out! Theres also a comfortable waiting area if youre having a bike repair done on the spot.

Ca
Review №32

I would suggest Switchback Gear Exchange to anyone without hesitation! I don’t usually post reviews, but Switchback was so good I had to suggest it. Switchback Gear Exchange has a lot of used bikes for a large range of prices as well as biking and other outdoor accessories.We were helped by Ryan, who was very knowledgeable and helpful. My old bike was shot and he made sure to find something that would work for my budget and riding style. He went above and beyond to help me as a customer, helping me with wear and tear instructions and with finding the bike accessories that I needed.Switchback offers a year warranty and a tuneup within that year on ANY bike and I’m very satisfied with my purchase!

Be
Review №33

Cannot say enough good things about these people and this store! They are not pushy with sales and they have good prices! They are truly about helping people get on the bikes they want! My husband and I got a bike rack from them and they helped us install it and got us new tires on our bikes the same day we brought them in! So friendly and helpful! We went to two other bike shops in town and it was a waste of time! Switchback is simply the best!

Br
Review №34

Ryan was awesome! Just needed to get a strip replaced with a flat tire. Awesome guy to talk to and extremely reasonable prices. Highly recommend for people who want their bikes repaired by someone who knows his stuff

Ma
Review №35

Great people, easy going and helpful

K
Review №36

Really helpful and knowledgeable staff! If they don’t have what you’re looking for they will take down your information and track down what you want. Really great service and prices.

Jo
Review №37

Great place with Fantastic people!!

G
Review №38

Came in on a Sunday to get a flat repaired on my sons bike. Never been there before. There are other bike shops nearer our home but because they are closed on Sundays I went to Switchback. Was thinking I was just going to get a flat repair kit but I also had a question because I thought an issue with the rim caused the flat. I waltzed into the shop and the staff immediately took a look at the wheel and set about repairing it. I was out of there with my repaired wheel in 15 minutes. They were fantastic! I HIGHLY recommend this bike shop for any repairs. I noticed they were working on a couple nice road bikes at the time. There are other bike stores nearer our house but I will go here if I ever need bike repairs/tune ups again. Thanks guys!

Ja
Review №39

Great place! I popped a tube nearby close to closing time. I called them, and they gladly stayed open to help get me on my way. They even recommended a new tire due to considerable wear. Came back shortly after for some more work. Great service again. Highly recommended.

Wi
Review №40

Great Coffee and biie shop!

Ma
Review №41

Amazing service, excellent prices, a good assortment parts/accessories, and a great wheel building department! Switchback is an awesome resource your cycling needs!

Ka
Review №42

This place is excellent! The staff are so nice and helpful, and actually remember you (which is amazing). The used gear is in good condition and sold at a good price. Support your neighborhood stores! I guarentee youll find something good at this place.

Mi
Review №43

Great customer service. Super staff

Ga
Review №44

Fantastic customer service. They are incredibly passionate about all facets of biking and welcome you as a friend when you walk in. Prices are great. I simply wouldnt consider going anywhere else for any bike related needs.

Ry
Review №45

Excellent excellent excellent! Super helpful and friendly crew that goes the extra mile. Looking to jump into cycling or mountain biking or hiking? Check them out before spending elsewhere unnecessarily on expensive gear! Very very highly recommend!

An
Review №46

The staff at Switchback are outstanding. Rachel and Sam both put the effort into making sure I would have a bike I was truly happy with. They personally text me when options came in and they really listened to what I was looking for. I love my slightly used bike that was in excellent condition when I bought it. I trust it will be a great bike for years to come.Switchback has a trustworthy and intelligent staff. Great Customer Service and a great product.

Lu
Review №47

Everytime I have a problem this team makes sure that they can help me get back out riding. They have hustle and knowledge. Best bike shop in grand rapids

St
Review №48

I found Switchback on line and decided to try it based on the Google reviews. I rarely provide feedback but had to join the club of happy customers to let everyone know that Sam and Rachel are trustworthy, down-to-earth and caring people. I brought in a bike tire from a Specialized bike after a spoke broke on me. Sam spent time researching to find the right spoke as it was your typical spoke. He kept me up-to-date on the progress of tracking it down and got it back to me asap. I brought another bike wheel into them and again was very pleased with their responsiveness and honesty. They are my new bike shop. I would STRONGLY recommend that you give them a chance if you havent. You will be glad you did. (thanks again Sam and Rachel!)

El
Review №49

I bought a sleeping bag, Bike, Hammock, and backpack from them. I love all their products! not only did I get a killer deal on my bike, they fixed it after I had a little trouble with it for free! all their products were high quality and greatly priced. And not only that, but the staff are the friendliest and most helpful staff in the world!

Ma
Review №50

Bikes, camping gear and coffee (espresso) now too!!! Parking in rear too.

Na
Review №51

Hands down the BEST customer service experience Ive had in a long time. Mike and Rachel are very friendly, knowledgeable and approachable. I did a gear exchange (several older bikes for a new cruiser for the missus) and they gave me a fair-and-square deal. See them for all of your camping and biking needs. Did I mention that theyre super nice? The best bike shop in town!

Dy
Review №52

Great place for bicycle and hiking needs. We got a great used mountain bike. We were able to ride it around before purchasing. It had a partially broken pedal on one side and they went ahead and replaced both for no extra fee. They also do a free tune up on all bikes they sell to make sure they are good to go. A very friendly and knowledgeable staff. We will certainly be using their services again in the future!

Th
Review №53

Nice staff friendly. Did not do the work we discussed on my bike. Left several components on that were supposed to be removed for my upcoming triathlon to reduce the weight. Disappointed for the amount I paid would not recommend. Plenty of bike shops in GR to choose from besides Switchback.

Ma
Review №54

Awesome guys. Dog friendly. Extremely knowledgeable and courteous. Couldnt recommend enough!

Jo
Review №55

Best place in town for new and used camp gear. Friendly, knowledgable and experienced staff! They even ordered gear for me they didnt have in store at the time. We cant recommend these folks enough.

C
Review №56

What a fantastic place! Were not very knowledgeable about bicycles and the owners really helped us out. We got what we needed and felt comfortable with and they even helped us attach the bike rack to our car and provided us with a list of good biking trails in the area. Everything that we were looking for was there and reasonably priced and I dont think we could have met more friendly and helpful owners. We picked out bikes that were new to the inventory and werent tuned up and he got them all fixed up for us to be able to take home today. Wonderful experience. This is the place to go!

Ja
Review №57

Super helpful staff and a great selection of used camping supplies. My boyfriend got a used sleeping bag for super cheap and copped some hammock straps for $20. For sure will return in the future.

Tr
Review №58

Went in to hopefully find a sternum strap that my pack had been missing for awhile. Looked online everywhere and could not find one. The guys checked through their damaged/junk packs and found one for me that fit. I owe them my next outdoor gear purchase definitely. Thanks!

Jo
Review №59

Brought my handcycle in for routine maintenance. Service was he best in town and the people are the most friendly you will ever find. Everyone should go here for all their bicycle and outdoor adventure needs

Ja
Review №60

This place is awesome. I got a great used bike for a phenomenal price. Their staff was helpful and non-condescending, which was really reassuring for someone starting out (and a little intimidated) like me. Would recommend them to anyone.

Ai
Review №61

Wow! Very, very helpful staff! Im new to the area, so I called ahead to see if someone could give my old cruddy bike a look over to fit it for a basket. Mike, the man on the phone was very polite. When I went in later I did not expect to buy a rack and a basket, and get a free adjustment tossed in!I never knew I should be fitted for a bike. Mike helped me figure out where I should be sitting and how high. After he was finished I felt like I was riding out on a completely different bike. Plus, Rachel introduced me to their two very friendly, very laid-back doggies. Overall, a really great experience! Definitely recommended!

Ch
Review №62

Excellent service. They stand behind what they sell. This is my go-to place for bicycle and outdoor products.

Mi
Review №63

Awesome service. Super helpful staff fixed my bike issues and provided friendly support. Will be coming back again!

Bi
Review №64

Great place - super helpful - fantastic prices!!!

De
Review №65

These guys are amazingly friendly and knowledgeable... Highly recommend them

Le
Review №66

I am new to town and new to biking. I had a bad experience with another bike shop and came in to talk to these guys. They were outstanding! Sam, Ryan and the lady with cool dreads (haven’t caught her name yet) have been so helpful with everything my girlfriend and I have needed. I ended up buying a used bike there and donating the one their competition worked on.. They give it a tune-up included in the price and warranty it for a year WOW! We have gone there several times and each time it is incredible. I would highly recommend them.

Em
Review №67

Stopped on twice before closing on a Saturday. Cognizant staff - able to answer all questions. High recommended & expectations exceeded :)

Sa
Review №68

Unfortunately this store is no longer selling used camping gear, the very friendly associate informed me that theyre going to be renting gear from now on. Currently theyre just doing bike repairs in the back parking lot during renovations inside.

La
Review №69

This place is awesome! Everyone is super helpful and not pushy when it comes to buying things. I couldnt find a used mtn bike that fit me so I bought one somewhere else. They checked it out for me to make sure I was getting a good bike. They said when I come in for tuneups that I should sit there with them and theyll show me how to do it so I can learn to do t it on my own and Ill know how to do some maintenance on the trails if something breaks down.

Jo
Review №70

Fantastic bike shop! Good prices, helpful service, and a good selection of products. Love the 1 year of maintenance with the purchase of a bike

B
Review №71

Awesome place to do business with. The entire staff was extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. We only wish we would have know about this place sooner. We highly recommend, and theyre open on Sundays!!

Je
Review №72

Sold an old Raleigh bike to them today. They were so awesome and fair. Someone brought in a Huffy bike to try to sell. Just dont. No big box store bikes.

Gi
Review №73

Just had my specialized road bike serviced here and Ive got to say it was a 10/10 experience. Not only is the bike back to 100%, their customer service was fantastic and they even got everything I needed done at the price I wanted to keep it at! If youre on the fence about going to switch back, dont be. They are a great bunch of people and will treat you right.

Co
Review №74

Came in a couple weeks ago and needed a new derailleur along with a couple of other parts. Switchback fixed my bike the same day and I was out riding. Ended up with a broken axle on the bike today and got a new rim for a good deal. Once again switchback put it all together the same day. These guys have really been a huge help Im super stoked on this place.

D
Review №75

My children were each gifted with hand-me-down bikes this year and I was in search of somewhere new to try for tune-ups. I was so pleased to find Switchback, with their incredibly fair rates, and pick up and drop off service. I sent off an email inquiry and had a very prompt response from Rachel. After learning what my needs and location were, she quickly followed up to schedule a pick up. While my kids bikes were at the shop, Rachel emailed me to let me know what the status of the bikes were, and to ask me what I would like to have done based upon what they found while looking the bikes over. All told, our bikes were away from home for a mere 48 hours, delivered back to me by Rachel who could not possibly have been any nicer. This is really a gem of a locally owned small business, and they will be my go-to for all of our biking needs from now on. Thank you!

As
Review №76

Love the shop and the people! Super helpful and everything is a great price and quality. Highly recommend!

Sh
Review №77

These are great, honest people who do a nice job all around. Ive purchased two bikes here and had bikes in for tune-ups as well. I highly recommend them.

Ja
Review №78

Got directed here for their stock of used parts and really got hooked up! Could never have expected to get back on the trail at such a low cost! Definitely will be bringing my business back here.

Ve
Review №79

Rachel was very nice. Bought a used sleeping bag but didnt work out returned with no problem and got a different used bag. Shes very knowledgeable and decent selection. A GR gem. PS. Double check hours lesson learned.

ti
Review №80

Just got a tune up on my bike. They did a great job. Now Im all ready for the Barry-Roubaix. They were able to squeeze me in. Much appreciated. Staff is very helpful.

Ry
Review №81

Brought my bike in because there was a clicking in my right pedal. Fixed the issue quickly (had my bike back the next day) and was cheaper than I expected. Customer service was fantastic! I only wish I knew about this place before I bought my bike so I could have bought one from them.

He
Review №82

The staff is very welcoming and knowledgeable. Shopping here is a great way to save some money on by buying gently used, quality camping gear.

To
Review №83

Great people! Very helpful and knowledgeable. Wide variety of used gear and clothing. Bought my Fat Tire Bike here and was very pleased with the service I received.

Gr
Review №84

Kathy helped me out with some bike shoes. She then helped me install the clips and even showed me how to clip in and out of my pedals. Awesome service.

Ad
Review №85

Excellent friendly service. Found a beautiful unique bike that pretty much sold itself but Ill be back for tuneups and advice from the super helpful people I met at Switchback.

Jo
Review №86

In the 1994 remake of Miracle on 34th Street, a New York mother (played by a then relatively unknown Allison Janney) comments to the stores general manager that due to her excellent customer service experience she would be, coming here for everything but toilet paper and bananas.While I dont go there for everything but toilet paper an bananas, I have had such a great experience there. They are very affordable, but its also just a place you feel great about giving your money.So, you should go there.

ka
Review №87

Have been coming here for a few years for bike repairs, adjustments etc and they always do an excellent job and are super knowledgeable and friendly.

Je
Review №88

Great selection of gear and expert service. I went in for a jet boil and they even helped me set it up and showed me how to use it. They also got me hooked up with the French press attachment

Da
Review №89

Awesome group of people! Great service! Dont wait in days and days to get your bike looked at, bring it here first and get back to riding.

Co
Review №90

Very friendly and knowledgeable staff! They work to make sure you find a bike that fits your needs.

Be
Review №91

The people are very nice and the bike mechanics try very to keep commuters up and running. They are knowledgeable and have a good selection of used bikes and hiking/camping gear.

Er
Review №92

Place is no joke, customer service is on point! The main thing that drew me into this place is that their open on sundays while all other bike shops are closed. I think the best thing about Switchback is their dog friendly!

Ke
Review №93

Great very knowledgeable service!! And very close and convenient to my house! Highly recommend to anyone who LOVES the outdoors.

Er
Review №94

Super friendly and helpful staff. I love that you can go here for quality gear, both new and used, for camping, hiking, and backpacking

Ja
Review №95

Knowledgeable, friendly staff. Fair prices. Great shop.

Si
Review №96

The store blew away any expectations I honestly had of it. Thought it might just be another overpriced Moosejaw-esque store. Straight from the get go the staff was super friendly to me, and genuinely seemed interested in the trips and adventures I had planned. Their used gear selection was fantastic too. Scored a new day pack for only $20! Friendly, homely enviornment, kind, helpful staff, and awesome new and used gear. Prices are great too! I’ll be coming here again soon for sure, and I’ll be sure to bring friends and family too :)

Aa
Review №97

This store is AWESOME! All the gear I love already broken in and ready to use. This store is about price and function which is all me.

Er
Review №98

Gave fair prices for my gear and had great items to get my kids started off in their own biking and hiking adventures.

Ku
Review №99

This store is the best! Staff is very friendly and helpful; they have gear for many different activities - hiking, backpacking, bicycling, fishing, the list goes on. Picked up a garmin forerunner 101 and a golite breeze backpack, both in fantastic shape. If you are looking for gear, check out this store!!

Na
Review №100

Great price on tune ups and they went above and beyond to make sure everything was in excellent shape.

Information
64 Photos
100 Comments
4.9 Rating
  • Address:2166 Plainfield Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505, United States
  • Site:http://www.goswitchback.com/
  • Phone:+1 616-259-9609
Categories
  • Bicycle repair shop
  • Outdoor sports store
  • Bicycle Shop
  • Camping store
  • Consignment shop
  • Sporting goods store
  • Used bicycle shop
Working hours
  • Monday:10AM–5PM
  • Tuesday:Closed
  • Wednesday:Closed
  • Thursday:12–7PM
  • Friday:12–7PM
  • Saturday:12–7PM
  • Sunday:12–7PM
Service options
  • Curbside pickup:Yes
  • In-store pickup:Yes
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible entrance:Yes
  • Wheelchair accessible parking lot:Yes
Planning
  • Quick visit:Yes
Payments
  • Debit cards:Yes
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