Curbside Cycle began - not surprisingly ? by the side of the curb, about twenty years ago. Back then we were just a slightly legal tent, a variety of ever-changing locations, and a pretty clear idea about what was missing in the market. Our focus, from the beginning on, was the neglected city cyclist. At the time we were one of many ragtag operations across North America turning old road bikes into flat bar bikes, a trend the bicycle industry later turned into a bike called the hybrid. Around the same time the hybrid was developed we finally acquired storefront in the much desired Annex neighbourhood of Toronto. Sure, we moved a couple feet away from the curb, but we always remained Curbside, a store dedicated to that strip of road beside the curb that the city cyclist occupies.more...See more text
True to its name, Curbside Cycle literally began on the curb, in a tent located just off of Bloor. Founder Don Watterson had realized that there was a need for a more practical form of transportation for the Annex’s committed urban dwellers, and set about converting customers’ rides into city bikes.
Though Don has long since stepped aside, Eric Kamphof and Aaron Enchin (Don’s stepson) still see their job as responding to the specific needs of Annex cyclists. One of the ways they do that is through the work of their head mechanic, Eli, described by the two as a “miracle worker” who has a reputation around the city for his incredibly fast tune-ups.
But that also means being the first in North America to import city bikes from Europe through their wholesaling firm Fourth Floor Distribution, or realizing that their customers needed quality locks to help defeat Igor Klenk’s roving team of bicycle bandits. "We feel very lucky to have the Annex as our foothold,” Eric explains, and they are committed to making sure their customers feel just as happy with their bicycles.
If two-wheeling around town is your travel option of choice, then Curbside Cycle has your back. The Annex shop owner, Don Watterson, has been servicing the bike-friendly hood since the mid-‘90s. Among the first to stock imported European bikes, Curbside caters to riders with an appetite for style. Its city rider-inspired accessory collection is the place to find that perfect messenger bag, lock or deluxe saddle to enhance your statement ride.