Spoke Club
The hottest rides on the Toronto circuit
THE PICK: Cycle Couture
Where: 926 College St, 647 342 1037
The gear: This quaint, narrow boutique foregoes track and mountain bikes in favour of a curated stock of fashionable rides. Opt for mid-century-style cruisers, such as monochromatic Brooklyn Bicycles and pastel-hued Publics. Both incorporate modern tech (think maintenance-saving Shimano hubs) with classic European style. You can also personalize your ride with faux wicker baskets and luxe leather saddles from Brooks. CYCLECOUTURE.CA
THE PICK: Vitess
Where:1040A Eglinton Ave W, 416 503 8987
The gear: Acquiring a carbon-fibre Vitess is like getting fit for a tux. Prospective buyers visit Maison Vitess, an art gallery–cum–bike shop, and collaborate with
founder Julien Papon. Every inch of their custom bicycles – from pedals to paint job – are conceived digitally using a wall-mounted frame and projector. The Or Noir series’ gold leaf inlay, by invite only, ups the ante. But bespoke doesn’t come cheap: prices start at $10,000. VITESS.COM
THE PICK: Bikes on Wheels
Where: 309 Augusta Ave, 416 966 2543
The gear: Head to Kensington Market to browse the collection of courier-approved fixies (fixed-gear bicycles) from Fuji and Masi; approachable Linus cruisers in basic black and cream, or in bright blue and gold finishes; and even Bullitt’s two-and-a-half-metre cargo bikes. Don’t fret the price tags: most two-wheelers cost a reasonable three figures, and cyclists can even bring in their own wheels for a quick $60 tune-up. BIKESONWHEELS.COM
THE PICK: Duke’s Cycle
Where: 625 Queen St W, 416 504 6138
The gear:
Duke’s has been peddling bicycles for 100 years, and it’s still cutting edge. Slick road bikes from Canadian company Cervélo, which propelled Ryder Hesjedal to his 2012 Giro d’Italia win, sit alongside tough-as-nails Cannondale cyclocross bikes. The Guru Fit system, which aids in precisely gauging ideal bike measurements and components for each rider, will make sure your new ride fits as tight as your nylon shorts do. DUKESCYCLE.CA