In spite of plans to remain a “one-shop store,” married couple Emilie Duchow and Michael Flannigan, owners of Trailhead Bicycles in Ellisville, Mo., purchased Mesa Cycles in Richmond Heights, Mo., at the end of last summer. “We really weren’t looking to add another store, but we heard through the pipeline that [founding owners] Russ and Adrienne Murphy were looking to sell,” said Duchow. “You don’t always get to choose your opportunities in life, so we said to ourselves, ‘Here we go!’”

Duchow’s first bike shop job was at Mesa, and she is familiar with the fine reputation the store has built for customer satisfaction since opening in 1991. “There’s so much history there, and we want the customers to have the same experience they’ve grown to love,” said Duchow. “We plan to keep both stores the way they are for now — the same great service and staff and bike brands. We definitely plan to learn from each other.”

Because both stores are bordering on Clayton Road, albeit 17.5 miles apart, Duchow says there may be an opportunity for group rides and shared events between the two stores in the future. “Our goal is to expand the community of cyclists throughout St. Louis,” Duchow said.