Defiant Hebden Bridge in the Spotlight

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Bicycle Den owner enjoying a mug of coffee

If you were enjoying the sunshine over the bank holiday weekend, the unprecedented December floods might seem nothing but a distant memory; but for those worse affected it’s been a long, hard six months.

Situated right on the waterfront, The Bicycle Den in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire is an idyllic location to browse and test ride bikes or even just visit for coffee (yes, they have an awesome coffee lounge too!). Unfortunately, this seemingly perfect location also meant they were badly hit when the River Calder burst its banks, six months ago.

The Bicycle Den has battled through and have opened up their doors once more and we’re delighted to feature them in our Dealer Spotlight… 

The Bicycle Den, Hebden Bridge, Yorkshire

What motivated you to open/run a bicycle shop?

Because nobody else would employ 2 overly qualified women with first class degrees! At the grand old age of approaching 50!

On a more serious note, cycling literally changed my life. As a small town girl from a mining village in Yorkshire I struggled to buy a £300 bike in 1990. Since then I have travelled the world on two wheels, what a delight. My interest and adventure continues, part of which is to open The Bicycle Den, with my partner Stella.

What makes your store different from others?

We intended from the start to be the anti-thesis to an ego dominated industry, so we are a relatively low key enterprise incorporating a coffee shop and oodles of approachability and fun.

Where is the best/favourite location you’ve ever cycled?

We love cycling the 7 stanes in Scotland, purpose built red runs and we simply adore cycle touring in Sri Lanka

What is the funniest/strangest request you’ve ever had from a customer?

There are bound to be loads eh?, but under pressure I can’t recall!!

What about the VOLT brand & range led you to stock them?

Their good looks are equally matched by their technology. We also really appreciated the ethos and personal contact with Lyle. One bike shop told us that you supported him with electric bikes when nobody else would, and it saved his bacon so to speak. From that day on we were convinced that we wanted to work with such a company, as ethics are high on our agenda.

What is your favourite VOLT e-bike and why?

Surprisingly, and it is a shock to me that I like the Kensington in blue! I am certainly not a ‘lady who cycles’ but I can pretend and enjoy this role on the tastefully styled bike which has a hint of fun..

What is your top tip for anyone looking to buy an electric bike?

Really consider WHERE you will be cycling and for HOW LONG and then TEST RIDE.

Coffee Lounge at the Bicycle Den

For more details and opening times for the Bicycle Den please click here. To find your closest VOLT e-bike reseller please see our UK dealer network page.