Linus Bike to Close Iconic Venice California Shop, Shift Focus

Linus Bike, the beloved California-based bicycle brand, has announced it will close its iconic Venice, California retail store on December 15, 2024. The shop, which opened in 2015, has been an integral part of the company’s identity and a hub for cycling enthusiasts in Southern California. However, as online shopping continues to grow and customer expectations evolve, the brand is shifting its focus to e-commerce and a nationwide network of authorized dealers.

While the physical store will close, Linus Bike will continue to offer its full range of bicycles and accessories through its website. The company also introduced a new set of customer services, including a mobile mechanic service for bike repairs and maintenance, and a bike delivery service to bring purchases directly to customers’ doors.

“This wasn’t an easy decision, and we’ll deeply miss the space that’s been a touchstone for our local community,” wrote Adam McDermott, co-founder of Linus Bike, in a statement on Instagram.  “But this is not goodbye. It’s an evolution.”

 

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A Legacy of Simplicity and Style

Linus Bike was founded in 2007 by McDermott and Chad Kushner with the goal of creating functional, stylish bicycles inspired by the simplicity and elegance of European city bikes. Their focus was to design bikes that were not only practical for short urban commutes but also aesthetically appealing enough to serve as an accessory and object of pride for their riders.

The duo’s vision was to make cycling an accessible, enjoyable part of daily life for urban dwellers. Their bikes feature a unique color palette inspired by 1960s automobiles, setting Linus apart from other bicycle brands with a distinctive and timeless look. The brand quickly became known for its blend of form and function, appealing to a broad range of cyclists who appreciate quality design and practical usability.

The Venice Beach location became a key part of Linus’ story, reflecting the brand’s connection to the Southern California lifestyle. It was a gathering place for local cycling enthusiasts, and a place where visitors from around the world could experience the brand’s ethos firsthand.

Expanding Service Options

As part of its transition to an online-first model, Linus Bike is introducing new services designed to enhance the customer experience. The mobile mechanic service will allow customers to schedule repairs and tune-ups at home or work, while the bike delivery service will bring new purchases directly to customers’ doors. Additionally, Linus will continue to work with a nationwide network of dealers to offer in-person sales and test rides.

Will Arnett in ‘Flaked’ featuring his trusty Linus bike

Pop Culture Significance

Linus Bikes has made its mark not only in the cycling community but also in popular culture. The brand’s bikes have appeared in numerous films and TV shows, adding a touch of style to the entertainment world. One of the most notable appearances was on the Netflix show Flaked, starring Will Arnett. The character Chip, played by Arnett, rides a Linus bicycle throughout the series, adding to the show’s cool, laid-back Venice Beach vibe. The show takes place in Venice, CA, where Linus bikes are made and sold, creating a seamless connection between the brand and the local culture. The choice to feature a Linus bike was a natural fit, reflecting the brand’s strong ties to the area.

In addition to Flaked, Linus bikes have also gained attention through their connection with musician Tyler, the Creator. Tyler’s relationship with Linus began when he visited the Venice store, purchased a Roadster 7i, and later featured it in several of his music videos, including “See You Again” and “911/Mr. Lonely.” His use of the bike helped introduce Linus to a broader audience, particularly among younger, style-conscious cyclists.

Looking Ahead

While the closure of the Venice Beach shop marks the end of an important chapter for Linus Bike, the company remains committed to its values of quality, design, and customer service. The shift to online sales and expanded services reflects evolving trends in the retail industry, allowing the company to serve more customers nationwide.

Linus continues to be a leader in urban cycling, with its distinctive designs and focus on sustainability. The Venice store may be closing, but the legacy of the brand and its commitment to making cycling both practical and stylish will continue to thrive in the digital space and beyond.

And, according to McDermott, the brand isn’t completely writing of a return to Venice.

“Who knows? Just like a good ride, there are always unexpected turns. Perhaps one day, we’ll find a new home in Venice—so stay tuned,” he wrote.

For more information on Linus Bike’s products and services, visit LinusBike.com.