From 1973 to Now: A Story Built on Bikes and Friendship

Hello,

Remember the song “Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree”? It was the #1 hit of 1973.

That same year, Angel Rodriguez and Glenn Erickson used $100 in race winnings to open a little bike shop in Seattle. That shop? R+E Cycles. And 52 years later, we're still here. Here's our story, if you want to revisit how it all began.

Glenn and Angel from BDS Magazine circa 1976

Back then, long-distance customers wrote letters, and we mailed back hand-written replies. Long-distance phone calls were pricey, and no one had heard of cell phones or email. A custom bike order meant deep patience, not digital forms.

Today? We still build every bike by hand in that same shop — but you don’t have to write us a letter anymore (unless you want to). If you ever want to talk bikes, ideas, or next steps, we're available in person at the shop, or by email, phone or even video consultation.

We’re proud to be one of the few places left where you can actually meet the people designing, welding, painting, and building your bike — all under one roof.

And on a good day in here, it feels like a family reunion. Long-time customers stop by just to say hi. Others bring their partners, friends and family to meet the team.

If you’ve told a friend about us, thank you.

If you’ve brought someone in to see the shop, we’re honored.

It’s not just a shop — it’s a living legacy.

We're grateful you’ve been part of it.

– Dan and the R+E Cycles Team

P.S If you know someone who’s ready for a custom ride — someone who would appreciate the comfort of a bicycle built just for them — send them our way. We’ll take care of them like we took care of you.

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Bicycles Hand Built in Seattle Since 1973
5627 University Way NE Seattle, WA 98105