Mesa Cycles opens Specialized Concept Store

St. Louis’ premier Specialized dealer has decided to build upon its success – Mesa Cycles officially opened their Specialized Concept Store on May 1st. After 18 in business, 16 of those as a Specialized dealer, Russ and Adrienne Murphy have reinvented their business by undergoing a complete remodel capped off with a Grand re-Opening. Located in a 100-year-old building, with exposed brick and raised ceilings, the remodel blends the character and history of the building with updated finishes and technical displays that will be a huge draw to cyclists from all over Missouri.

"It was a logical step, partnering with Specialized," Russ Murphy stated, "we were already devoting a large percentage of our inventory to Specialized and a concept store tied it all together. No other brand offers the depth of in-demand product and they are a trustworthy company." Murphy continued, "I've had the pleasure of spending a couple of weeks riding bikes with Mike Sinyard and those experiences certainly made me much more comfortable making a commitment of this magnitude – Mike likes bikes! Specialized stands by the dealer and are most interested in the long-term partnership."

When asked about his history in the bike industry and about his relationship with Specialized, Murphy elaborated, "I started bike racing in college and after I finished school, I tried to figure out a way to support my bike racing habit so, I started working in a bike shop in 1984. We opened our own store in 1991 and I have continued racing bikes, while running the business." Murphy continued, "The most rewarding racing experience that I’ve had, was when I placed third, in the criterium, at the Masters National Road Championships last summer. The second most fun I have ever had on a bike, was descending the Passo Sempione with Jo Planckaert and Fabian Jeker at over 100 kph. I have Mike Sinyard to thank for that experience. The most fun I have ever had on a bike was the first time I rode mountain bikes with my future wife."

The store has been received with glowing reviews from customers and sales for May were up over 35%, over May of 2008 and sales for June were up over 15%, over June 2008. "I'd like to commend and thank the Retail Services team for their efforts, they made me feel like I was the only project they had going on and it’s obvious that they place a pretty high bar for their own performance", Russ provided.

John Quinn, the southern Regional Sales Manager for Specialized, supported many of the observations made by Murphy, "Russ and Adrienne have been long-time supporters of Specialized. Their dedication to the brand, with a high quality staff, service and now environment – is the reason we wanted to further our commitment to their business." Quinn added, "the enthusiasm for the cycling business that Mesa spreads in their community, is why we do what we do – only the best can come out of Specialized partnering with a business like Mesa Cycles. We look forward to building on the success, together."

The Grand Opening of the Mesa Cycles Specialized Concept Store took place over the weekend of May 1 – May 3. Although the weather was rainy it didn’t deter over 125 loyal customers from coming to the kick off Mesa Cycles Mojo Club VIP party on Friday night. There was enthusiastic support for Russ and Adrienne and their great staff as well as for the newly remodeled store. Saturday morning, a group ride and demo was enjoyed by 25 riders. All day Saturday and Sunday, the demo van provided bikes for eager customers to test and the weekend was a strong success. One lucky customer won a Ruby frame and many remarked how easy it is to shop the new store.