Hi all:
Just thought I would share this with you....
I was in the old town part of Arroyo Grande, California (central coast near Pismo Beach north of Santa Barbara) and stumbled accross Ira's Bike Shop. Inside was cluttered with bikes and old posters. The first one that caught my eye was a Masi with "CCCP" on the top tube and "Masi" in russian script on the bike. There was another Masi Gran Criterium hanging right next to it. I know nothing about Masi's, but do know that a lot of you love them...I can appreciate their good looks.
In the counter display case there was a Campagnolo 50th anniversary set...NOS and nice and dusty. I like bike shops that show their age...and this is one that does so both in spades and in style. There was more vintage stuff, including a few high-wheelers (penny farthings) and a derosa hung in the corner for good measure. Really a great shop.
The highlight was speaking with Ira himself, who was super nice and would readily put down what he was doing to chat about old bikes with a (ashamedly) non-paying visitor.
Definitely worth your time. The town is great too...small cafe's with riders drinking coffee and the like. Anyhow, just thought I would let y'all know if you are in the neighborhood, to definitely stop by. It is right off of the 101 freeway....
Ira's Bike Shop 107 Bridge St Arroyo Grande, CA 93420-3309 (805) 489-2621
Stephan Andranian
Costa Mesa, California USA
http://www.GitaneUSA.com