How good is ATA Cycles? As my screen name implies, I am from Chicago. We have several good local bike shops in Chi-town however; I had the pleasure of talking with the owner of ATA Cycles in the spring of 2006 when I was searching for a particular Italian frame which they had in stock. The owner, Husam, was very helpful, extremely knowledgeable, personable and passionate about the sport of cycling. I quickly came to the conclusion that what sets ATA apart from most other shops is their desire to put you on the best bike possible according to your riding style, needs and budget. You never feel as if you are being sold something to meet a sales quota. They work with you and for you. \r
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I shared my experience with several of my buddies and they all had the same comments. Recently several of us decided to take a trip to ATA, or as we call it ?Bicycle Mecca?, where we were treated like lifelong friends. The staff at both shops actually knew us by name and the bikes we purchased even though we had never seen each other in person. Husam took the time to fit us properly (note: the fit system that they use is state of the art and was worth the trip) and he answered each and every question. As a result, two of my buddies walked away with new top end bicycles that were perfectly configured and sized for their needs. I walked away with not one but two of my dream frames and the knowledge that my power output will be much better when I set them up because of the time I spent being fitted by a professional whose goal is complete customer satisfaction. We will be back? and we will bring more converts to ATA?s Bicycle Mecca.\r
Pros: Best fitting system, customer service and knowledge
Cons: Too far from Chicago to visit often...
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