Avanti Plus Brunswick

The young’uns in this bike shop might be keen cyclists themselves, but they don’t seem hellbent on providing a level of service that would ensure happy cycling for their customers.
I’ve no doubt that the staff here are very knowledgeable about all things bicycle related, it’s just that they don’t seem terribly enthusiastic or pleased about making sure the customers get what they need, which is unusual for a bike shop. Most other cycle shops I’ve been to in the area have staff who are supportive and encouraging to anyone who shows a like-​minded interest in cycling.
So that’s a slight downer, but the store itself is great. Lots of good stock, prices that are pretty much the same as other shops in the area, a large range of new bikes for sale, and with the shop floor space to show each bike in its best light.

Buying a bike is not cheap — you have to buy the bike, the helmet (so not a fan of bicycle helmet laws in Australia), the lock, the clothes, and the upkeep. You probably don’t need the clothes if you’re a casual, urban rider like me, but nonetheless, it does add up. For a road bike, we’re talking thousands. I just wanted an urban commuter, which I did not find at Avanti Plus Brunswick.
This is not the place to go if you’re looking to join the fixed gear and single speed bicycle revolution, which I wasn’t looking to join anyways. This is the place you go to if you want to do some serious riding on Beach Road.
There were lots of Avanti road bikes as well as some Avanti urban bikes. All road bikes look the same to me, but the Avanti urban bikes looked middle-​aged. They were made for older people, which is fine if you’re older. I wanted a comfortable bike, but let’s be honest, I also want a cool looking bike (I do have one now).
They didn’t have what I was looking for, but the staff were knowledgeable and friendly enough.