Jay Swenson

Erik's Bike Shop, Inc.

Erik was 13 when he started ERIK'S BIKE SHOP. His first bike, a hand-me-down from an older family member, sparked his interest in bikes. With an entrepreneurial spirit, and the money he saved from his job (the only other job he's ever had) as a paperboy - Erik began his business. He bought 50 used bikes, fixed them up, and sold them. Erik's original workshop was in his parent's backyard, inside one of the few remaining barns in the urban setting of Richfield, Minnesota. A homemade sign brought business to his doorstep. By his senior year in 1982, the business (now stocking NEW bikes and accessories) began to take over storage space from his parents'​ basement... to the dining room... to the family room. So at 18, Erik moved his business out of his parents'​ barn and opened a store on 72nd & Chicago Avenue South in Richfield, Minnesota. Today ERIK'S is the Midwest's leading bike, ski, and board retailer. A lot has changed, but Erik's core business principles remain - professional staff, unbeatable customer service, and remarkable product expertise - all in a friendly store environment. And Erik still enjoys working in the shops to help customers find their perfect ride.