Hello Everybody!

I wanted to bring this page to life to say thanks to a few people that helped me start my journey on the bike path.

First, my wife, Judy, for believing in my ability. You were behind me the whole way from the day I showed you the article that changed our life. I love you!

Second, my in-laws, Gordon and Ellen Rudd, for letting me marry your daughter. You help us out whenever we need it, and we wouldn’t be where we are without you. Thank you so much! We love you!

Now to a few people who taught me the skills that my customers experience each day…

Clarence and Chuck Bortz were the first to hire me in the 90s. Thanks, Chuck, for not laughing too hard on my first bike build when everything was OK – except the fork was on backwards!

To Sam Praul, who took over after he bought the place. Thanks for allowing me to run your business the way I thought was best and for letting me make mistakes without too much grief. You made me feel like it was my bike shop, while along the way giving me some great insight as to how certain things should go. Those were some great years together! Say hi to Deb and Isaac!

To Exercare, I learned two things while there. The most important one was that the grass is not always greener on the other side. The other one was to stay under the radar.

Also, thanks to Lois Moss and Scott Cowan, for hiring me when it was time to move on to Ohio’s best bike shop and to one of the country’s top 100 dealers. I did learn a tremendous amount. While working at Century Cycles, you gave me many opportunities and experiences that I will never forget! Thanks for everything!

To everyone from Century Cycles, the retreats were unforgettable and the times that we had were always fun – especially the pub rides! Specifically, to all the guys I worked with at Rocky River, don’t ever forget that you guys are on top of the mountain. I will never forget the words of the great philosopher, “Kenny G” Hagedorn, who said, “Hundred miles right now!” and “Hudson…dead!”

Last, but not least, to my son, Charlie. Someday you will read this, and I just want you to know that I did this to give you a better life. Don’t ever forget where you come from. Remember to learn from everybody, no matter who they are, and you will always be successful. I love you, little man!

Bottoms up! See you on the trail!
Dennis