Village Cycle Center, Chicago

Village Cycle Center has more than 10,000 bikes in stock, but it's not the insane inventory that has made the shop a go-to for many of the city's cyclists—it's the service. The expert mechanics here customize every bike to fit each individual rider's comfort and safety. That means picking the correct frame size, adjusting the seat, and calibrating the brakes so they stop the wheels instead of just squealing, "STOP!"

When not readying new rides—or tuning up existing ones—Village Cycle Center's staff doles out plenty of free advice, especially when it comes to accessories, which range from helmets, pumps, and locks to hydration systems and car racks. The shop's passion for bicycles extends into the community, as well, as Village Cycle Center sponsors such popular events as the L.A.T.E. Ride and Bike to Work Week.