Bike Shops also supply accessories and safety equipment, such as bottle cages, mud guards, helmets and repair kits, as well as specialist clothing and footwear. Some bike shops stock high-energy snacks and sports drinks, as well as food supplements such as amino acid powders and multivitamins.

Bike shop staff provide expert advice, including help with choosing bike size, design, suitability and safety. Some bike shops specialise in supplying bikes and equipment for cycle sport participants, as well as for leisure purposes. Many repair bike bodywork and tyres and offer bicycle servicing.

As well as trading from traditional retail premises, bike shop owners increasingly trade online.

This profile provides information about starting up and running a bike shop. It describes the skills required, the training available, the current market trends and the key trading issues. It also explains the legislation that must be complied with and provides sources of further information and support