Most anyone who can ride on two wheels can tell you their favorite bike shop. In prepping and shopping for this weekend's big Bike MS: Sam's Club Round-Up Ride (aka, the MS 150), it seems I've heard raves about almost every one -- from tiny hipster outlets to big stores with enough flow to sponsor big rides. Some shops fully lived up to the hype, some were never open three times I tried to visit, and one had an employee (loose term) who actually yawned in my face and never stood up to show me to what I was asking for (apparently, pointing is very cycle-chic).

But there were more winners than non. More awesome and generous mechanics. More fanstastic customer service. And more chamois cream than I've wanted to know about. In alphabetical order ...

Bicycles Plus 7015 Snider Plaza #110, University Park, 214-363-2025 This is a no-pressure shop with a good supply of road, mountain, casual cruisers and everything in between. They also have the only pair of helmet-friendly sunglasses that don't make me look like an asshole, but I'm not to that level yet. The shop is set up a little oddly, so if you're just off a ride, the snacks are in the back. They support local group rides, and that's always a bonus. Also, really attractive employees. (There are multiple locations for Bicycles Plus, but this is the one I like best.)