Mellow Johnny's

As a lifelong cycling enthusiast, visiting Lance Armstrong's Mellow Johnny Bike Shop was a bucket list item. Matthew was very friendly and answered questions readily. Jacob was very knowledgeable and friendly on all things Lance and cycling. Seeing all the Lance Armstrong memorabilia and extensive information that was prominently posted was a really cool treat for me. The only way the visit could have been cooler was if we could've met Lance. Still, it was a great experience.

Had a Retül Fit done here and couldn’t be happier with the experience. The staff were friendly and professional, and the shop has a great atmosphere with everything well organized. Brant took time to understand my riding style and goals, then used the Retül system to make precise adjustments for comfort, efficiency, and control. I left with a bike that feels perfectly dialed in and new insights on how to improve my riding. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a proper bike fit in Austin.

Mellow Johnny's is the best bike shop in town. The mechanics are top-notch, and the bikes and apparel are of outstanding quality. Most importantly, the store lives up to its name and the brands it carries, giving you peace of mind with every purchase—they stand behind their products with solid guarantees. Hats off to Dan and Mr. Black for their recent assistance. Need anything bike-related? It’s a no-brainer: go to Mellow Johnny's. I’ve been a regular since 2010.

Stopped in to check if they had a part and said the cheaper the better. They didn’t unfortunately, but I wasn’t surprised as it was fairly outdated bike technology. The service guy still checked through their inventory and found something that was close to what I needed, but not quite. He pointed me to another shop that would likely have what I need. I was very pleasantly surprised with my experience after some subpar interactions at a different Austin bike shop. I would definitely return here for service/parts in the future. Prices for tires, etc seemed pretty reasonable compared to other bike shops in austin. A few bucks more than Amazon, but nothing outrageous. Definitely worth it for the convenience and expertise.

Brought in my TT bike in a pinch to get a tune up, replacement cassette & chain, and travel case for a race up North. Everyone that helped me was incredibly accommodating and friendly. Not only did they provide very quick turnaround on everything, but they provided me a great price on my cassette that is less common nowadays. Premium service - will be my go-to bike shop from here on.

Came in for a brake pad replacement. Very quick service, was in and out within 15 min. I did like the old space more as it had a charming character and a coffee shop. This new location is more convenient for everyone though. Especially quick access from the trail. I will be bringing my bike back here for future tuneups. They also have bikes for rent.

I have been using MJ’s for almost 15 years to service my bikes over the years and after this last service I had to finally leave a review. While on a ride I had a shifter bar clamp fail in a scary way but I brought it into the service department and Dave had me in and out in lightning fast time. Can’t say enough good things about this shop. Thanks Dave, Justin, and Will!

I was riding my bike to work about 30 minutes ago and the back tire suddenly detached from the frame. I was a block from Mellow Johnny's so I carried it over there and arrived right when the doors opened up. No one was mad to open the shop with a customer waiting for them which would have been totally reasonable. A tech looked at it, did his magic, and handed it back to me in just a few minutes. So thankful to that whole team...shout out tall blonde guy. You rock!

These guys are awesome! Took care of me right away, fixed my breaks and flare tire, and gave me an awesome rate. 10 out of 10.

I just had my bike stolen and called in to see about purchasing a new Trek bike because I always shop local first and I drive by the shop almost every day. I let the sales person know the model and size I wanted and let him know I was interested in accessories, as well. He was terse and seemed irritated I called as he informed me that it wouldn't arrive until October (this is June). {2020} I asked if I could get it any sooner or if I needed to preorder. He, in a very frustrated tone and manner, told me that I could call other stores around the country and see if they would be willing to ship it to me. I tried to explain that I was asking so that I could find out the procedure to buy and was trying to find out if I needed to pay for it in advance or pre-order it. After he let me know I wouldn't need to pre-pay; I started to ask another question with the intention of seeing if he had suggestions on other bikes that might work for me. When he interrupted me again with frustration in his voice, I hung up on him. Maybe he misunderstood the phrase "Keep Austin Weird" as "Keep Austin Wired". I'm guessing there are no commission sales. Either way, I'm pretty certain I can locate the model I am looking for elsewhere... Even if it's in October, another city, or an online retailer. Update: {2025} I ended up calling a store in San Marcos next. They were amazing and I ended up buying several bikes from them over the next 5 years, whil sending all my friends from Austin to them. I was talked into going to Mellow Johnnies a few months back to get some supplies to help a friend with his bike. At least they maintained some consistency, their service was terrible. Whether you are a noob or an experienced rider, I'd find another shop.

5.14.2024. When I told my cycling crew I was visiting Austin, they told me I had to visit Lance's bike shop. We stopped in on a random Tuesday evening. Mellow Johnny's was cool, modern & bright. This full service bike shop has quite literally everything you need. My friend bought energy supplements for a non-cycling event. Additionally, the staff was polite & answered all of my questions. Mellow Johnny's has a nice selection of bikes for sale , apparel, & other supplies. They were sold out of the more common sizes on the discount rack. However, I was pleased with my purchase. Prices are in line with what I pay in the Washington DC area. I would've rented a bike & jumped on a group ride if I felt better. Welp until next time!!

Great store, not what we expected. the guy with glasses and stache wasn't nice though. Not good customer service, was not helpful, and not entertained enthusiasm we had for the store

There was nothing mellow about it! I got in and outta here like a Nascar pit crew was working on my bike. While out and about in downtown Austin, I got a sudden flat tire. I walked my bike over to the old location, a few blocks away, discovered that they'd closed, and moved to this bright and shiny new location closer to the river. I came in, they had my tire in stock, and offered to put the bike up on the rack and change it for me! Sold! While they were doing the work, I was able to look around and see all the pictures of Lance Armstrong's biking stuff. I was pleased to see that they were an authorized dealer of Trek products, and were quite familiar with how to work on them. They had all the parts, and were even able to sell me on a new back light to keep things illuminated. Their quick service and reasonable prices were clutch in helping me stay on the road! Thanks Mellow Johnny!

Possibly the worst customer service and staff I have encountered in my time on this earth, seemingly pretentious employees who make you feel stupid for asking questions and being interested in products. I had high hopes for this place due to the backstory of it but both times I've gone have left a sour taste in my mouth. Cheers.

If you're looking for some excellent bike gear and support, you must check out the shop. Core of Lance Armstrong's biking initiatives and biking team - this is the center of it all. This is a bike shop for the serious biker. High end equipment with both new and used options available. Even if you're just here to check out trophies, Tour de France memorabilia you should stop in. There is a coffee shop located at the front and you can just hang out and relax while you imagine yourself touring the countryside on a very nice bicycle! Note that it is street parking only, and the city charges for it, so be prepared to pay the city not the store! The store is very large and has a great service department with a wonderful vibe.

My experience at Mellow Johnny's Bike Shop was short and sweet. I came just 10 minutes before close with a broken chain and a flat tube, apologizing all the while for coming in so late. The employee was sweet about it and was able to take it and fix it on the spot. Within 15 minutes I had the chain and tube replaced and was on my way, and it only cost me $60 ($20 for the labor, $40 for the tube and chain). I was impressed at just how quickly he was able to do it and the fact that he was transparent about the repair process and the costs involved. Will definitely be back for any future quick fixes.

I bought my bike there. The staff was very acknowledge and gave me their best advices when buying my trek. I'd recommend this place.

If you're any kind of cycling fan you can't help stand in awe in this shop under no less than 7 yellow jerseys, explore the small museum like collection of Tour de France bikes from the Armstrong glory days, and shop the cycling kit on display. New since my last stop in, they've added a coffee shop and it's amazing coffee. Got the chance to actually work from the one morning and it's a wonderful atmosphere with cyclists coming and going. Must see in Austin every trip!

Horrible customer service. I am not invisible & neither are the APD We back the blue they don't. Will now shop at another shop for our new bikes..

I rented a bike for a sprint triathlon from Mellow Johnny's and it was such a smooth and quality experience I wanted to make sure to give props. ALEJANDRO was top tier, friendly and knowledgable on the bikes, general inventory and the city. After a quick fitting and some paperwork I was out the door. The day I returned the bike my Dad and I left beaming after a nice little walk about checking out the Tour de France jerseys and various unique vintage/performance bikes on display. We snagged a couple souvenir shirts and bevs from the coffee shop that's connected to the store. 10/10

Went in looking to build custom wheels and needed to see if Mellow Johnny's could provide double butted spokes, hubs and rims. This is the second time I've interacted with the service department and both times I've left thinking "I'll never go back to that place." First time, guy with hoop earrings yelled at me for taking a single step in his "work area" to show him where my bike was scuffed up (to see if the damage was structural/important). I didn't give him my bike to put back there, he just took it while I was trying to show him. This last time, I wanted Mellow Johnny's to install the headset, buy hubs, spokes and rims and build the wheels. I asked about the spokes, was told to speak to service. Went to service and waited, stood around, said hello to the mechanic working and was just completely ignored. To be honest, it's a real bummer because otherwise the shop seems cool but I don't want to walk on eggshells to pay top dollar for bicycle equipment.

Ohhhhhh yeahhhhh!!! Couldn't wait to write this review! Mellow Johnny's hooked me up!! Such a wonderful bike store! As I was walking around I started noticing some old school treks up on the wall and around the store...... hey, that kinda looks like the madone lance raced on..... that one kind of looks like one of the earlier bikes lance raced on...... they all look like lances racing bikes! Super cool and good to be in the mist of who may arguably be the GOAT! Customer service was equally as spectacular!! Very friendly people, super knowledgeable. The bike I rented was the carbon emonda. I've never ridden 105 and I was super impressed about how well the shop had tuned it. Crisp, accurate shifts every single time. Bike was very clean and well maintained overall. I've also never ridden a trek before.... super comfy.... (I'm pretty sure I went over the daily mileage on that bike...) I had it for a week and uhhhh.... San Marco, Leander, Round Mound and a few other names come to mind..... and I was so glad I got the carbon version because it's a super comfy ride. I rented a rim brake version and it performed well. Helmet was provided for the nugget. They also provided me with pedals to match my cleats. The biggest thing to me was their friendliness..... and great prices.... and great bikes.... and cool store... and cool people working at the store.... ..... oh, AND GREAT COFFEE!! Another first was and iced coffee. My sister went to order one and she brought me back one. I had never tried an iced coffee... I mean, I see them all the time, but I'm a hot coffee drinker. I was pleasantly surprised!! Super delicious. Also, very well stocked inventory. You could easily walk in with no gear and leave ready to ride. Bikes, shoes, helmets, accessories, clothing gear..... you'd easily be fully set! And they can also accommodate many different budgets. Some great deals in there! I love this spot.... this is my Austin bike shop any time in visiting from Atlanta!!

Did you say bike wash for $15??? You had me there. I am blessed to have a bike shop right around the corner. Besides the fun of the history lesson at MJ of lances' bikes (proudly on display), they really know their stuff here. Add in a little side visit to Juan Pelota for iced coffee, and this is a great visit for all things bikes. MJ's has a bunch of organized ride gathering as well on a weekly basis with Violet crown.

I was in need of a patch/new tube on my ebike and walked in. I was ignored by the technician. After waiting 20 minutes I was told that they didn't have a tube and couldn't patch my tire. I took it over to Clowndog bicycles and they patched the tire in 5 minutes. Completely understand that you can't/won't perform a service but why be rude about it? Mellow Johnny's needs better customer service. I remember going into Mellow Johnny's 15 years ago and it was your neighborhood bike shop where people cared.

Friends and Guests of Texas Bike Tours often want to ride gravel. We rented bikes from Mellow Johnny's and with Frye's competent assistance in a custom-fit for each guest, the ride was even more than a century. The riders completed 105 miles on gravel, paved, soft dirt and with dogs in the chase. These bikes held up well and were a pleasure to ride even while the cyclists were exhausted. They kept rolling.

If it wasn't for the last few interactions I had with the bike rental guy, it would be 5 stars. I loved Mellow Johnny's the first few times I went. The bike rentals are great for what they cost. During the pandemic we were able to come in multiple times as walkins and just rent bikes for the day of. However, the last time I went, the man staffing the bike rentals told us they suddenly changed policy and now we have to reserve the bikes at least 2 days in advance. Now that is also fine, but the man was incredibly rude. He additionally said it was our fault and we needed to plan better -- which is not called for. He was awful the whole way through. My other friends had similar interactions with him, and he almost made one person cry. He really needs to learn how to treat people with a little bit of decency.

Great selection, top notch service staff. Love the new location! Parking is much easier than before and the new showroom is clean and bright.

I really appreciate TC for helping me find a great bike. Also, I did a fitting with him which I highly recommend. He went out of his way to help me since this is my first road bike and I am not used to clipping in. I have other kinds of bikes. He helped me with parts on my bike to get it to the perfect fit and it feels great. I am so grateful for him and his help. It is nice to have someone with such expertise and who loves what they do assisting you. I will definitely be back for my bike rack.

I was really disappointed in the level of customer service that I had here. The only time that anyone bothered to ask me how I was doing during my time there is when I was walking around with merchandise in my hand and I was about 15 feet away from the door. Outside of that, The staff could not care less that I was shopping at all. They have A large selection of shop kits available to choose from in a plethora colors and styles. Also, from many different brands as well. The bummer is if you're anyone with any type of upper body definition, you're going to have a hard time finding something in a full matching kit. Lot of history in the shop yellow jerseys are on display good selection of bikes and accessories. But as I stated earlier it looks like I caught the staff on a piss poor day.

I was really turned off by how unfriendly the guy at the counter was. There was no eye contact and he didn't even bother to say thank you. Adding insult to injury, I could have easily bought this item online for much less. I only stopped in because I wanted to support local businesses. As the saying goes - no good deed goes unpunished.

RENTAL REVIEW: I was in town and decided to rent a road bike (Trek Emonda SL 5) to explore the city & take on some hills. I highly recommend making a online reservation in advance; as I noticed some walk-in inquiries were turned away because no bikes were available. The rental process was quick and I was out on the road within 10-15 minutes after adjustments. Showers & lockers (Bring your own lock) were available which was a nice accommodation. I got a flat while out, and thankfully I wasn't too far from the shop. They replaced the tire & inner tube (no charge) and I was back out on the road in no time! Overall great experience and customer service was amazing! The guys know what they're doing and it shows! The shop is also very historic and has a lot of cool bikes/memorabilia to checkout. If you're needing a road bike, hybrid, or MTB rental... LOOK NO FURTHER! Prices were also reasonable considering the value of the bikes.

They stepped up! I came in with problems and rode out with a smile, everyone in the place was professional and knew the gear. So I went on a shopping spree, they had a specific bike lock that I heard about and haven't seen in the 10 or so shops that I've been to. That and a light and a bar bag , cool gear. Nothing I've seen before and I had to do something while they wrenched on my ride!

Would give 0 stars if I could. I dropped my bike off June 5th on a Friday for a tuneup, new tire & new cassette. They told me I would get my bike back the following Wednesday (which I already thought was a pretty long wait time since usually I am able to pick it up the next day) - I thought okay, with how things are with Covid19, they may be backed up. Wednesday comes and goes and I get no phone call. I let it go by and end up calling them thursday to see whats up with my bike. (Keep in mind I ride my bike every single day, so to go this long without my bike is a pain to me - I'm sure others can relate) Thursday I call them to see what the hold up is with my bike & they rudely tell me that there is a problem with the warehouse that the cassette is being shipped from so it would take a couple more days. They were extremely short and unapologetic and just wanted to get me off the phone. Another few days come and go so I decide to give them another call (its probably tuesday or Wednesday of the following week - a week after the day they committed to getting the bike back to me) On this phone call, I just nicely ask them what is going on and when I can expect to get my bike back. Again, they are EXTREMELY short and unapologetic with me and tell me "the part still hasnt came in! well give you a call when its ready....) the tone in their voice was as though they had way better things to do than to entertain my phone call. Finally, yesterday, June 22 - 2.5 weeks after dropping my bike off - i decided to give them another call because at this point I am getting very pissed that I have not been able to ride my bike in almost 3 weeks. I talk to a guy and tell him whats going on and that I want to know whats going on with my bike - he transfers me to another guy in the service department (without explaining my situation or telling the guy who I was - so I had to repeat everything) this guy also acts as though he has better things to do than to talk to me. I explain my situation and he says "oh - we've had that part in stock, not sure why we havent completed your repairs yet" - at this point i am LIVID because I could have had my bike back earlier this whole time....they give me a call a couple hours later and say my bike is ready to be picked up. To put the cherry on top - they without hesitation or without an apology charge me full price (higher than I expected even). After all of this I went through, they couldnt even apologize to me for the delay or give me a discount. To say the least, I will NOT be coming back and will take my business elsewhere to somewhere where my business is valued. Mellow Johnnys, you have disappointed me big time - and I have been a customer of yours for the past 3 years.

TL;DR: typically dismissive/elitist bike shop vibe you've been warned about - it's a shame because it's an otherwise cool shop. Took a good five minutes to be acknowledged. I then asked about shoes and was shown a pair without much in the way of explanation (or interest in how it fit/where I had questions). When I then asked about shorts, the salesman gestures meekly, "yea, we have some all around" and walked off. Cool, bro. Only answer I needed...With so many good options in town, you really don't have to tolerate the smug cloud in this place.

I came here for a tire to be replaced. They offered me only one choice this super high dollar tire that I looked up on the internet and I over paid by 30-39 bucks more. I could lived with the overprice tire but the installation was done by this kid who sometime didn't install my tire right which made my biking on the trails almost caused me an accident.

I went there to shop from out of town and asked about parking and was shocked that you have to pay to park there. When I inquired about it the worker said I did indeed have to pay and then made a snide remark. I said then "I'm done then I'm not paying to park and shop." He then told me to "Get out then!" I left and have never had such shitty attitude from the staff there. I live out of state but always make a stop there to shop when I come home to visit. I will no longer shop there if assholes like that work there. I was actually looking to buy my wife a bicycle for our camping trips. Stay away for the rude attitude.

I travel from Houston, Texas to Austin, Texas which is a 2+ hour drive to have my road bike and ebike maintained at Mellow Johnny's bike shop. Let me start by saying for some of us avid bicyclist finding a Local Bike Shop is like searching for a Medical Family Doctor. I'm extremely selective when it comes to my bike. Recently I had an issue with my Serial 1 ebike. I visited several Local Bike Shops in Houston and each shop stated they could not repair my ebike (they did not have the technical expertise nor the tools). I called Serial 1 support and they recommended Mellow Johnny's bike shop. When I arrived at MJBS I was amazed at the selection of bikes and accessories. Big Smile on my face. Before I traveled to MJBS I called and explained my issue. My harness and remote display was not working due to my negligence. I spoke with Dave and he said bring it in we'll resolve your issue. I did and 2 1/2 hours later they were able to replace the internal harness and replace the external remote display. Nobody talked down to me to explain what needed to be repaired in a manner I could not understand. They broke it down for me so that I had a full understanding of why I had this issue, what I did to cause it and how they approached and repaired my ebike. What! Yes, these folks at Mellow Johnny's are creative and understand the engineering of an ebike. Not just able to stick a wrench on my bike but actually understand and can explain the engineering aspect of what needed repair. Yes! I'm a happy cyclist again. This place by far is exceptional. Well worth the 2 1/2 hour drive.

First time customer bringing my mountain bike in because I blew the hub. From the start, seemed like more of a road bike shop so I was skeptical. My mountain bike has not been fixed in over a month because of parts "availability". Finally looked for parts myself and found all parts online right away. I finally went back to get my still broken bike today and no one tried to make the situation right. Safe to say I won't be back to Mellow Johnny's.

Always gets the job done. I've brought my bike here twice after other local shops failed to identify an issue and they've come through every time.

This is a great bike shop, lots of things to buy, a little pricey but most are willing to pay. The problem is the rude workers. Very very bad customer service.

solid shop. the staff are knowledgeable, and have given advice on parts to buy, even if i couldnt purchase through them directly. the coffee shop is solid to boot.

I'd been waiting to come here since 2009 when I first got into road cycling - and it did not disappoint! What a cool shop with a great community vibe! The building itself is really neat looking with its signage and such (I am an architect). I came in on a strict mission to purchase a MJ jersey. The staff was great about holding onto the tons of shirts I wanted to try on and getting me into a fitting room. Checkout was easy - everyone was really friendly and attentive. I took a stroll by the bikes and was asked if I needed assistance - sadly not, but it was still fun to look! I stopped in another 2 times during my visit to grab coffee and chat with friends at the Juan Pelota cafe. It was awesome to see so many cyclists coming in and out of the store - hoping I can find something even remotely similar back home in NYC!

Really nice, helpful staff. No aloof attitudes, no bro talk. They helped me find a great saddle for my bike and answered my Qs about maintenance. And there's a cafe! I absolutely will return.

I would say attitude is the reason I would not recommend. The narrow minded self interest is abound. Incredible places like this still exist. I will never again darken their doors. Disrespectful and rude is just a few words. Good luck buying what you want without feeling interrogated....prequalifying is not required in other shops!

Really great place. Took in my e bike that needed some maintenance and they took care of it in 5 minutes. I will come here exclusively from now on.

Bought a hybrid bike, went to five bike stores, the salespeople and experience were the best at Mellow Johnny's. Jacob was especially helpful. Also went to Trek on Lamar, ATX Bikes, and Cycleast. Cycleast was disappointing given generally good reviews. Mellow Johnny's was easily the best of them all, would recommend to others.

So I keep reading all these mediocre reviews for MJ's so I figured I would respond. I have no idea what you are talking about. Every time I go in I get treated better than family. I go mainly for mechanical things, like repairs and builds and all I will say is the place has the best wrenches in town. Others may be better but I have not found them, are they cheap? No, but when you want it done right the first time these are the folks to go to. I have a lot of money invested in my bikes, yes I said bikes, so I don't want someone learning on my bike. My life depends on it functioning, stopping, turning, etc. well. So maybe everyone else got unlucky but all I will say is so far they are the only place I will take my bikes.

I had a very quick in-and-out experience. I wasn't looking too heavily at price since I knew I was walking out with a bike regardless. The representative walked me through what I needed based on what I told him, and I was sold immediately. I went on a test run that didn't take too long which was appreciated. Gabriel was great!

Super nice guy helped me out. Added some air to my shocks to keep my old bike functional. Great attitude.

Great products, possibly the best coffee in town, and Peter in rentals is as accommodating as humanly possible. When I visit my son in Austin, I always rent a bike for the Truancy and MOTR rides, and renting them couldn't be any easier. Highly recommended!

I called ahead of time to see if they had a rear view mirror. I rode my bike there. When I arrived I asked the counter guy where I might find a mirror, he just pointed and said over there. After not finding what I wanted I asked him where the next bike shop might be. He said he didn't know, and he didn't even look up from his phone. So service Sucks. Do yourself a favor and shop somewhere else.

Horrible service and really not that knowledgeable but hey if you like green dyed hair and arrogance go for it. This place really just sucks!!!!!!!!

Quite an icon! Big shop and stuffed with Armstrong memorabilia. The best cyclist of his day...but quite a liar too, sadly. Oh, the coffee shop in the building is super good! Glad I went.

Bad service. Waited for help for 15-20 minutes. When help finally came, the sales guy had an elitist attitude. Thanks but no thanks. Will take my business elsewhere. So much for a historical shop.

VERY DISAPPOINTING. Very disrespectful to customers and community. Stopped by for visit and realized the staff was opinionated and biased. I prefer to shop someplace that has will offer good advice on bicycle products without harassment and high pressure. Not a pleasant atmosphere.

Long overdue update about a year late. So, after my terrible experience at Mellow Johnny's the manager contacted me, apologized, and said they wanted to make it up to me. After some back and forth, the manager offered me a $25 gift card and said I could visit the store and it would be waiting at the counter for me. I really had no desire to go back as the location isn't convenient for me and I didn't have the warm fuzzies after my last visit, but I figured they were making an effort so I'd play nice. I go out of my way to drop by the store and head to the counter. The girl working can't find said gift card and is exceptionally rude. It goes like this: "What's the managers name?" "I don't know who that is." "When did she say it would be here?" "Did she say where?" "Are you sure?" I finally said screw it and just left. Seriously kids. Minus one more star. Mind blowing terrible service.

Ive been coming here to get maintenance and advice for my mountain bike that was purchased somewhere else. Every single time ive been here they've been nothing short of amazing to me, always willing to help and explain. Maybe the poor reviews are from people who show up with a salty attitude from the start? Either way, you get what you give in all aspects of life. Ill always come back to MJ's!