THIS WEEK, cyclists in Wokingham can breathe a sigh of relief.
Following the closure of the town’s only bike shop, KC Sports, last year they were left with nowhere local to help with puncture problems, chain slips and cycle repairs.
Now they can visit Max Knott’s new family-run bike shop in the town centre, for repairs, parts, and bikes for all the family.
And they can be sure of knowledgeable service, because Wokingham resident Max not only manages De Novo Velo, he also happens to be Team GB’s Junior Team mechanic as well.
De Novo means ‘from scratch’ and Velo, is French for bike.
Max chose the name because his store aims to provide everything the cyclist needs from the ground up.
“I’ve worked in the cycling industry for around 25 years,” he said.
“And I’ve helped a number of people set up their own cycle shops, but this is the first time I’m doing it all for myself.
“I’ll be able to run it exactly how I feel a good bike shop should be run.
“And Wokingham is the perfect place to be doing this.”
Max moved to the town five years ago.
“I love Wokingham,” he said.
“There’s a great community vibe, it’s beautiful, and people care.
“It’s a great place to put roots down, and the perfect location for a good quality, good value, good repairs and services family bike shop.
“I’m really excited to be opening this weekend.
“We’ll stock bikes for all the family, including first bikes, mountain bikes, gravel bikes, and commuter bikes.
“And as a Shimano stockist and service centre, we’ll be able to provide really good quality parts and repairs.
“But I also want this to become a community space for people to come in for a chat and friendly help and advice.”
Max says he’s already had interest from Wokingham Cycling Club members, and on social media sites bicycle fans are buzzing with enthusiasm for a new bike shop in town.
One or two have asked about the possibility of Sunday opening.
“I know a lot of cyclists like to get up early for a Sunday morning ride,” Max said.
“I’m happy to open up early for them, and then go back to bed.
“Anyone who needs that should just pop in or give me a call to arrange something – I can be flexible.”
De Novo Velo will open on Saturday, February 15, at 10am.
It will also welcome visitors the evening before, on Friday February 14, from 5pm onwards for a special Valentine launch.
“Everyone’s welcome to drop in and see where we are,” said Max.
“We’ll have drinks and nibbles, and I look forward to seeing you.”
For information, call: 0118 469 3438,or once up and running, visit: https://denovelo.com/
From Friday evening, people can visit the store, at 3 Bush Walk, Market Square.
