Rapha Store NYC?

[justinrchan]

Heading to the city in August and wanted to know if it is worth a visit to the Rapha store. Do the have sale items in store?

[zzy]

Yes and yes. They also sell great coffee. And beer! It's a fun part of the city to walk around anyway.

[tiretrax]

If the sale is still on, it should apply. I visited the store in SF a few years ago. It's worth experiencing. My daughter loved it.

[chasea]

Heading to the city in August and wanted to know if it is worth a visit to the Rapha store. Do the have sale items in store?

We honor sales and bundles currently available on the website. There is no sale rack or clearance section. I send all clearance items back to the warehouse, where deals can be had by anyone who can access the site. This is a flagship store, so you will find latest product and select club-only items.

Forget the sales. Come in for the coffee, beer, food, live race screenings, events, exhibits, and group rides.

Chase Anderson
Visual Merchandise Specialist
Rapha Cycle Club New York City

[justinrchan]

Cool - thanks. I'll plan on making a stop!

[lhuerta]

yes, definitely worth a visit. The guys running this store actually say hello to you when you enter the store, and they are actually cyclists and are friendly too....unlike the disaffected hipsters that work(ed) at the other Rapha stores (SF, NYC pop-up, London). Lou

[thegunner]

yes, definitely worth a visit. The guys running this store actually say hello to you when you enter the store, and they are actually cyclists and are friendly too....unlike the disaffected hipsters that work(ed) at the other Rapha stores (SF, NYC pop-up, London). Lou

hey now, when i went to the SF store, they were all super friendly (and all cyclists as well...)

[FlashUNC]

Been to the SF store several times. Never met anyone but folks happy to chat about the gear and bikes and beverages and pastries.

[StephenBoynton]

yes, definitely worth a visit. The guys running this store actually say hello to you when you enter the store, and they are actually cyclists and are friendly too....unlike the disaffected hipsters that work(ed) at the other Rapha stores (SF, NYC pop-up, London). Lou

Definately worth the visit!

[happycampyer]

I haven't had the chance to make it to the NYC store yet, but I've been to the SF store (thanks to the gracious guidance of secret-society-Imperial-Works-member pdmtong) and the pop-up store in Mallorca, and they have both been worth the visit. The employees are all hard-core bike enthusiasts, and the stores themselves are beautifully designed and well-stocked.

[oldpotatoe]

I haven't had the chance to make it to the NYC store yet, but I've been to the SF store (thanks to the gracious guidance of secret-society-Imperial-Works-member pdmtong) and the pop-up store in Mallorca, and they have both been worth the visit. The employees are all hard-core bike enthusiasts, and the stores themselves are beautifully designed and well-stocked.

Need one in Boulder!! At 29th st or the PSM...I'd volunteer for just product.

[katematt]

Sent my wife to the store one day to pick up a hat.

She was late for a show, but still made it. Said the staff was helpful and got her out the door quickly.

Her quote "that stuff is expensive" to which I replied you get what you pay for and glad she doesn't know the half of the other stuff I buy.

Hit up The Standard right around the corner, a bit pricey, very hip and a great beer selection.

[witcombusa]

Sent my wife to the store one day to pick up a hat.

She was late for a show, but still made it. Said the staff was helpful and got her out the door quickly.

Her quote "that stuff is expensive" to which I replied you get what you pay for and glad she doesn't know the half of the other stuff I buy.

Hit up The Standard right around the corner, a bit pricey, very hip and a great beer selection.


Like hype, advertising and elitism?

[jr59]

Need one in Boulder!! At 29th st or the PSM...I'd volunteer for just product.

OH MY!!!!:eek::eek:

The republic would never be the same!
Potter in nano-puffs and Peter in the Rapha store! :banana:

[katematt]

Like hype, advertising and elitism?


Agreed but don't forget the personal cool factor. We also shave our legs.

I'm far from fully decked in Rapha but a nice gillet, a couple of hats and a pair of bibs work pretty well.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[oldpotatoe]

Like hype, advertising and elitism?

Like just about everything? Stick to other stores if ya rankle at Rapha, no gov't requirement to go in. I like their 'concept', ala Apple stores and Nike stores. They are successful....very.

But they will survive w/o ya. Read the CEO interview. They aren't for the 'herd', by design.

[bcroslin]

Don't listen to the haters. Definitely stop in and grab a coffee or coke and enjoy the tour. Everyone I spoke to at the store was nice and not elitist in the slightest. I had no plans to buy a thing when I stopped in but I was so impressed with the shop and the hospitality that I bought a pair of socks.

[bcroslin]

Her quote "that stuff is expensive" to which I replied you get what you pay for and glad she doesn't know the half of the other stuff I buy.


The comparison I made for my wife is that Rapha is the Lululemon of cycling clothing. I wouldn't shop there for all of my gear but it's nice to buy something from them every so often.

[RedRider]

I have always felt that Rapha was run as one of the smartest businesses in the industry...

[rallizes]

NYC club is great. Ignore the hate.

[19wisconsin64]

....and the store is an amazing place to watch races live, on the big screen, with fellow cyclists, while having a great cup of coffee!

my wife and i go there to watch the races, and once a year we get one or two pieces of bike clothing.

Rapha has been one of new york's biggest supporters of local racers and riders....great to see the big effort the company and the Rapha employee's put into promoting cycling!

Travel Tip.... and go to the Standard Hotel and eat, enjoy a drink or food outside (you have to see the lobby to believe it!) also, one of the best things to do in NYC is to walk along the Highline...which starts around the corner.

The Highline is the old rail tracks converted into a 20 block long elevated masterpiece of architecture, which goes through and by one amazing building after another, with views of the Hudson River, the Empire State building, and really gives folks an idea of how amazing a place NYC really is!

Cheers

[justinrchan]

Thanks for the tips! I'm originally from the City but have since moved but have family in town so I go back a couple of times a year. Look forward to checking out the Rapha store.

[chasea]

Look forward to checking out the Rapha store.

Cycle Club. :)

[fiamme red]

Cycle Club. :)How does one join? What are the annual membership dues? Is there a secret handshake?

[bcroslin]

The Highline is the old rail tracks converted into a 20 block long elevated masterpiece of architecture, which goes through and by one amazing building after another, with views of the Hudson River, the Empire State building, and really gives folks an idea of how amazing a place NYC really is!

+1 for the Highline. The south entrance is nearly right outside the front door of Rapha.

[witcombusa]

Like just about everything? Stick to other stores if ya rankle at Rapha, no gov't requirement to go in. I like their 'concept', ala Apple stores and Nike stores. They are successful....very.

But they will survive w/o ya. Read the CEO interview. They aren't for the 'herd', by design.


That's not surprising at all. I have Zero use for all three brands!

[oldpotatoe]

That's not surprising at all. I have Zero use for all three brands!

10-4, freedom to choose is GREAT! I'm sure somebody has done an exhaustive study about various correlations between product choice, lifestyle, locale, political beliefs.

-Apple, Nike, Rapha user. There

[Benneke]

I visited for the first time a few days ago and it was a good experience. The staff was nice and they were showing the Tour on a big projector. They have all the Team Sky stuff on sale, 25% off (jerseys, t-shirts, etc)

[jlwdm]

That's not surprising at all. I have Zero use for all three brands!

Do you like anything? Seems like your cause is anti-everything.

Jeff

[fuzzalow]

ZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Always the same old song and dance with any congregation in the Rapha venting of the spleen. Mostly a replay of the same triumverate cornerstones of Rapha-hate:
sublimated class warfare - being pissed at Rapha and its buyers because YOU think it's too expensive
Glorify YOUR reasons not to buy - concocted excuses to dislike Rapha because you can't have Rapha
Disingenuous brand image - hey, what can I tell ya, the real world is a panoply of illusions
In credit to this thread, something new was brought to the table: rag on the Rapha Store (nee Cycle Club) staff as elitest pricks carrying on in service of the cult. Until the truth comes out that the elitest NYC location situated in the fashionably elite Meatpacking is staffed by a bunch of blokes that are pretty alright people. I dunno, it just seems when maybe people get the vibe that a person goes through life suckin' on lemons, sometimes it makes it hard to be a regular bloke back to somebody like that.

I will unquestionably join in raging hatred with the Rapha-haters for one thing about Rapha: I hate that I didn't conceive and execute on this brand and product offering myself. But I have nothing but admiration for those that did.

[shovelhd]

I haven't had the chance to make it to the NYC store yet, but I've been to the SF store (thanks to the gracious guidance of secret-society-Imperial-Works-member pdmtong) and the pop-up store in Mallorca, and they have both been worth the visit. The employees are all hard-core bike enthusiasts, and the stores themselves are beautifully designed and well-stocked.

I went to the one in Chelsea to see the Lemond exhibit. Nobody said hello. That would have been a stretch. Nobody even acknowledged my existence. Several employees were chatting it up with their friends. Hey, whatever, I won't buy anything then. I liked the setup of the store. Indoor bike rack up front, merchandise in the middle, gathering area in the back.

If you like tacos the taco stand in Chelsea Market is excellent. There is also a seafood market where you can get fresh prepared seafood. Outstanding. It's about a block away.

[fuzzalow]

I went to the one in Chelsea to see the Lemond exhibit.As did I. It was a nice chronicle of Greg's milestones. My photos about the visit found here: Rapha NYC Lemond exhibit (http://forums.thepaceline.net/showpost.php?p=1503931&postcount=13)

Nobody said hello. That would have been a stretch. Nobody even acknowledged my existence. Several employees were chatting it up with their friends. Hey, whatever, I won't buy anything then. I liked the setup of the store. Indoor bike rack up front, merchandise in the middle, gathering area in the back.
This is not written as criticism of you so please do not misconstrue. I would suggest that a slight recalibration of your modes and means of communication be in order to not miss the exchanges that actually happened. They likely really happened but did so just outside the radar frequency of which you are attuned.

Look, this is NYC, with Noo Yawkuhs. The hello greeting that is given by the Entry Greeter in any suburban Target or WalMart is not what you get from the staff at the entry of Rapha NYC. In fact, to do so would be discordant to the compression and nuance that underlies NYC interactions. You get eye contact and a held gaze for 1 second or less. Which you can then respond in kind with an acknowledgement or reply. I know I did and with an added half smile that said I was glad to be there and see this exhibit. Later that morning, the young lady barista gave me the "something?" gaze while carrying glassware behind the counter. I did not complete the feedback with her that said I was looking for service so we both went along our ways. It happens fast but does not feel rushed. And if you missed it, just initiate another exchange. New Yorkers are some of the nicest people anywhere.

If you like tacos the taco stand in Chelsea Market is excellent. There is also a seafood market where you can get fresh prepared seafood. Outstanding. It's about a block away.Yeah, Chelsea Market is fun. I'm glad you enjoyed your visit.

[happycampyer]

I went to the one in Chelsea to see the Lemond exhibit. Nobody said hello. That would have been a stretch. Nobody even acknowledged my existence. Several employees were chatting it up with their friends. Hey, whatever, I won't buy anything then. I liked the setup of the store. Indoor bike rack up front, merchandise in the middle, gathering area in the back.

If you like tacos the taco stand in Chelsea Market is excellent. There is also a seafood market where you can get fresh prepared seafood. Outstanding. It's about a block away.That's odd—I ended up passing by the shop last night on my way to meet my family for dinner, and the employees were all friendly. The selection of products is extensive, too. I don't know if they stock every product that is currently available, but it seems to to be close to it.

For anyone thinking of visiting, the neighborhood is great. Restaurants and shops galore, and the Highline is fantastic. In the '80's, I had friends who lived on Horatio Street close to the water, and I can remember walking through those streets in the wee hours of the morning to go to Florent, a 24-hour French bistro/diner that I think was on the same street as the Rapha store. The streets were splattered with blood from all of the meatpacking plants (hence the appellation, the Meatpacking District), and there were Amazonian transvestite prostitutes on every other corner. My, how times have changed.

[shovelhd]

As did I. It was a nice chronicle of Greg's milestones. My photos about the visit found here: Rapha NYC Lemond exhibit (http://forums.thepaceline.net/showpost.php?p=1503931&postcount=13)

This is not written as criticism of you so please do not misconstrue. I would suggest that a slight recalibration of your modes and means of communication be in order to not miss the exchanges that actually happened. They likely really happened but did so just outside the radar frequency of which you are attuned.

Look, this is NYC, with Noo Yawkuhs. The hello greeting that is given by the Entry Greeter in any suburban Target or WalMart is not what you get from the staff at the entry of Rapha NYC. In fact, to do so would be discordant to the compression and nuance that underlies NYC interactions. You get eye contact and a held gaze for 1 second or less. Which you can then respond in kind with an acknowledgement or reply. I know I did and with an added half smile that said I was glad to be there and see this exhibit. Later that morning, the young lady barista gave me the "something?" gaze while carrying glassware behind the counter. I did not complete the feedback with her that said I was looking for service so we both went along our ways. It happens fast but does not feel rushed. And if you missed it, just initiate another exchange. New Yorkers are some of the nicest people anywhere.

Yeah, Chelsea Market is fun. I'm glad you enjoyed your visit.

I grew up 40 miles outside of NYC and spent many, many hours all over the city. My oldest son just graduated from Pace University in Lower Manhattan and I visited often. Plenty of recent experience. A few months ago I stopped by Echelon which is not too far away. It was a completely different experience. I have no skin in the Rapha game. I don't own any and I don't care if anyone else does. What I expect is to be treated like a customer not some outsider that doesn't belong.

[Climb01742]

I'm sure this isn't 100% true, but I'd posit that, let's say, 90% of people once they wear and use Rapha products become Rapha fans. Set aside all their brand building stuff (which I too wish I'd thought of and currently admire a lot) their actual products are darn good. A Rapha jacket, vest and bibs are among the very best gear I own (not so much the jersey) and it has nothing to do with image or marketing. The stuff just works and is so well designed.

PS: Never been to a Rapha store, but I'd like to.

[jlwdm]

I could care less if someone greets me as I walk into a store. Employees often have more important things to do. I want to look around on my own.

If I need assistance I can ask for it.

Jeff

[R3awak3n]

I would rather not be greeted and not be bothered, I like to just browse and if I need anything I can ask. That is when you see if the employees are good or not, will they stop chatting to help you and are they friendly.

I have not been to the rapha store and I work pretty close (soho area), I will go by some day, I have heard only good things.

[r_mutt]

I went to the one in Chelsea to see the Lemond exhibit. Nobody said hello. That would have been a stretch. Nobody even acknowledged my existence. Several employees were chatting it up with their friends. Hey, whatever, I won't buy anything then. I liked the setup of the store. Indoor bike rack up front, merchandise in the middle, gathering area in the back.


timing is everything. i've been in there multiple times, sometimes i get a hello, sometimes i don't. it doesn't effect my experience.

[oldpotatoe]

I could care less if someone greets me as I walk into a store. Employees often have more important things to do. I want to look around on my own.

If I need assistance I can ask for it.

Jeff

??? Employees have more important things to do? Why are they there? Everything is secondary to customer service. They needn't be pushy but as a former small biz owner, I find that comment off base. Saying a simple 'hello' isn't hard to do.

[witcombusa]

I could care less if someone greets me as I walk into a store. Employees often have more important things to do. I want to look around on my own.

If I need assistance I can ask for it.

Jeff

??? Employees have more important things to do? Why are they there? Everything is secondary to customer service. They needn't be pushy but as a former small biz owner, I find that comment off base. Saying a simple 'hello' isn't hard to do.

I'm with him on this. Customer service starts when the customer asks for service. No judgment till then...

[Chris]

There's been plenty of research on effective retail tools and the greeting is always considered the most important. Major retail companies invest lots of money evaluating their stores via mystery shoppers and the most important item on the list is how long did it take for them to be greeted when entering the store. Likelihood of purchase decreases precipitously as time to being greeted is extended. Those of us who prefer to shop without interaction are outliers.

http://www.forbes.com/sites/carminegallo/2012/07/26/how-one-brand-builds-customer-loyalty-in-10-feet-and-10-seconds/

[93legendti]

"How's it going?" goes along way with most people. 10 feet/10 seconds...or less

[e-RICHIE]

How's it going isn't hello (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IN6cJ_wGmsk) atmo?

ps

arrange disorder

:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:
:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:
:cool::rolleyes::rolleyes:

[93legendti]

Funny episode. I try to teach my young son to ask "How you doin"?, but he resists...

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=XSPj7HSYejA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dc2Z7CL4Cv0&sns=em

[witcombusa]

There's been plenty of research on effective retail tools and the greeting is always considered the most important. Major retail companies invest lots of money evaluating their stores via mystery shoppers and the most important item on the list is how long did it take for them to be greeted when entering the store. Likelihood of purchase decreases precipitously as time to being greeted is extended. Those of us who prefer to shop without interaction are outliers.http://www.forbes.com/sites/carminegallo/2012/07/26/how-one-brand-builds-customer-loyalty-in-10-feet-and-10-seconds/


I think the term is internet shoppers! :banana:

[fuzzalow]

There's been plenty of research on effective retail tools and the greeting is always considered the most important. Major retail companies invest lots of money evaluating their stores via mystery shoppers and the most important item on the list is how long did it take for them to be greeted when entering the store. Likelihood of purchase decreases precipitously as time to being greeted is extended. Those of us who prefer to shop without interaction are outliers.

This strategy may be correct but IMO would be clearly inappropriately applied were it targeted to the profile of the typical/desired Rapha client.

The key element here is the targeting of a mass market clientele. This is crucially relevant for example to mobile telcos, auto manufacturers, WalMarts and other businesses that drive profits from scale. Because scale is the driver, the approach to this type of customer by definition is designed for, and panders to, the lowest common denominator. I don't doubt that research has uncovered that the mass market shopper clientele profile likes to be swooned over in their greeting upon entering a store. These shoppers are also likely to have their consumer hot buttons cultivated to a constant receptive state by all the seductions, flattery and stroking also found in research as methods in encouraging the consumer to be more amenable towards buying. Whatever it takes to get the average consumer to open their wallets. And there is plenty of profit going after the average Joe/Josephine. This group and the sport of cycling is however, not the Rapha demographic.

Don't ruin the vibe of a brilliant brand and the retail experience of its associated flagship stores by cheapening its client interactions to be out of tune with what Rapha actually knows itself to be.

[Chris]

This strategy may be correct but IMO would be clearly inappropriately applied were it targeted to the profile of the typical/desired Rapha client.

The key element here is the targeting of a mass market clientele. This is crucially relevant for example to mobile telcos, auto manufacturers, WalMarts and other businesses that drive profits from scale. Because scale is the driver, the approach to this type of customer by definition is designed for, and panders to, the lowest common denominator. I don't doubt that research has uncovered that the mass market shopper clientele profile likes to be swooned over in their greeting upon entering a store. These shoppers are also likely to have their consumer hot buttons cultivated to a constant receptive state by all the seductions, flattery and stroking also found in research as methods in encouraging the consumer to be more amenable towards buying. Whatever it takes to get the average consumer to open their wallets. And there is plenty of profit going after the average Joe/Josephine. This group and the sport of cycling is however, not the Rapha demographic.

Don't ruin the vibe of a brilliant brand and the retail experience of its associated flagship stores by cheapening its client interactions to be out of tune with what Rapha actually knows itself to be.

I'm a huge fan of Rapha. I'm an Imperial Works member, and have had some interaction with some of their management on past projects, etc. I'm certain that you aren't saying that the Rapha strategy at their retail stores is to be aloof and to give a head nod rather than saying 'hello' or 'welcome.' Because if that's what you believe the Rapha customer service strategy is, I can confidently say that you are mistaken.

[jlwdm]

??? Employees have more important things to do? Why are they there? Everything is secondary to customer service. They needn't be pushy but as a former small biz owner, I find that comment off base. Saying a simple 'hello' isn't hard to do.

Helping customers already in the store.

As a highly successful small business owner in sales, I do not always agree.

At Raising Canes fast food restaurants they used to greet everyone as they came in the door. I do not know if they still do. The register and the door were a long way apart so they would yell in the face of the person ordering. Very annoying.

Jeff

[jlwdm]

How's it going isn't hello (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IN6cJ_wGmsk) atmo?


...

Excellent.

Jeff

[happycampyer]

I'm a huge fan of Rapha. I'm an Imperial Works member, and have had some interaction with some of their management on past projects, etc. I'm certain that you aren't saying that the Rapha strategy at their retail stores is to be aloof and to give a head nod rather than saying 'hello' or 'welcome.' Because if that's what you believe the Rapha customer service strategy is, I can confidently say that you are mistaken.

I would agree. I was greeted when I entered the store, and the salespeople were friendly. The German guy who ran the pop-up store in Mallorca was definitely the friendliest of the shops I've visited, but I don't think there is some corporate policy for the sales personnel to be aloof.

[RedRider]

Rapha has perhaps the best marketing in the industry. I know a few of the NYC employees and the strategy is all about customer satisfaction and service.
You can like or dislike the products or the marketing but this thread is getting way too serious .)

[fuzzalow]

I'm a huge fan of Rapha. I'm an Imperial Works member, and have had some interaction with some of their management on past projects, etc. I'm certain that you aren't saying that the Rapha strategy at their retail stores is to be aloof and to give a head nod rather than saying 'hello' or 'welcome.' Because if that's what you believe the Rapha customer service strategy is, I can confidently say that you are mistaken.

No that is not what I am saying. That is far too blunt a position to take in the nuanced points I was trying to make. Rapha is neither a mass market brand nor does it operate within a, arguably, mass market activity. As such it will refine its own methods and means to be consistent with their own internal vision of their branding and image.

It would be absurd for me to contend any knowledge of Rapha customer service strategy, I gave my opinion in a discussion. For you to express confidence of my error must mean you are plugged into Rapha in ways I am not.

[Chris]

No that is not what I am saying. That is far too blunt a position to take in the nuanced points I was trying to make. Rapha is neither a mass market brand nor does it operate within a, arguably, mass market activity. As such it will refine its own methods and means to be consistent with their own internal vision of their branding and image.

It would be absurd for me to contend any knowledge of Rapha customer service strategy, I gave my opinion in a discussion. For you to express confidence of my error must mean you are plugged into Rapha in ways I am not.

We are on the same page. I wasn't trying to be dismissive of your point at all because I think it was valid. Rapha is not trying to catch the biggest piece of the pie, a'la the large retail chains. Instead they are building a loyal customer base that buys into their direction atmo. I believe that when you are doing that, it makes the customer experience that much more important. We're splitting hairs here way too much. My point was that I believe that Rapha very much want you to feel welcome and valued in their stores.

Let's go ride.

[Grant McLean]

Major retail companies invest lots of money evaluating their stores via mystery shoppers and the most important item on the list is how long did it take for them to be greeted when entering the store.

http://www.forbes.com/sites/carminegallo/2012/07/26/how-one-brand-builds-customer-loyalty-in-10-feet-and-10-seconds/

Why does saying "hi" “Show me that you care.” ?
They don't care, they hire someone for $7/hr and you think they care.
Major retailers still suck at service, don't have what you want in stock,
staff are underpaid and lack training in product knowledge,
mostly because management invests in the wrong things...
like hiring experts that tell them to hire greeters.

-g

[oldpotatoe]

Helping customers already in the store.

As a highly successful small business owner in sales, I do not always agree.

At Raising Canes fast food restaurants they used to greet everyone as they came in the door. I do not know if they still do. The register and the door were a long way apart so they would yell in the face of the person ordering. Very annoying.

Jeff

The implication was the employee had more important things to do than help any customer...or greet them.

Fast food store does not equal retail clothes store. One with centralized, funneled customers, other with roving employees. At fast food, the person taking the order had better greet the person before taking the order.

[professerr]

•••

[Chris]

Were it any other retailer, I’d think such a promotion would be tongue in cheek. Rapha - I’m not sure.

Either way, I’m sure it goes over great in the factory.

My statement was tongue in cheek...

[Chris]

Why does saying "hi" “Show me that you care.” ?
They don't care, they hire someone for $7/hr and you think they care.
Major retailers still suck at service, don't have what you want in stock,
staff are underpaid and lack training in product knowledge,
mostly because management invests in the wrong things...
like hiring experts that tell them to hire greeters.

-g

It doesn't show that you care but it may imply that you might. I'm in the medical field and you will always find those who will rely on anecdote rather than the research (not always inappropriately so). No different anywhere else.

[chasea]

There's a lot of speculation going on in this thread.

I could go on at length about the entitlement of the middle class- to their own detriment- based on my extensive work as a private concierge for several luxury residences, or my years of work as a butler for a royal family. But that wouldn't apply here, as each of your experiences are unique. So please afford me the same graciousness.

Rapha CCNYC strives to give each person an exemplary customer service experience, be it to purchase kit, get a coffee, watch a race, attend an event, or just to check out the club. People are usually greeted by multiple employees upon entry. On a busy day, the greeting may be in passing, but that person will be acknowledged the moment one of us has the opportunity.

We don't breathe down your neck. We give you a chance to browse (an American idea of shopping, introduced in the UK by Harry Gordon Selfridge), let you know that we do have additional inventory in the stock room should you not see your size, and ask if you're looking for a particular piece for the type of riding you do. The service is very much intended to cater to each rider's individual needs.

We embrace the fact that we're a polarizing company. And we are aware that some people are walking through the door expecting to have a negative experience, if only to justify their feelings about the brand. We try to change their minds when we can.

We're not here to push clothing on anyone, we're here to be ambassadors for the sport. That said, the neighborhood rent is high, and when someone is shopping, they do get our undivided attention. A great amount of our retail space is dedicated to the walk-in experience, rather than to pushing sales. The only other place in New York I can think of that is dedicating such a large percentage of retail space to the customer not buying product would be Rough Trade Records (another British company) with their live music venue.

Don't want to buy? Cool. We're still excited to talk with you about where you're from, what kind of riding you do, what kind of bikes you're into, or that morning's stage. We're here because we love the sport, and we want you to love it too.

If you felt snubbed, I apologize. Please understand that it was not intentional, and most likely a fluke. I assure you that you would not have that experience twice in CCNYC. It's just not possible with the level at which our staff performs; not because they're trained to behave a certain way, but because they just are a certain way. A truly great staff needs very little guidance. We have a truly great staff here.

Mike, Jimmy, Chase, Andrew, Thomas, Jessica, Carlos, Alex, Clovis, Jenn, Isaac, Jospeh, Alberto. Those are our names. Come in, meet us, and see for yourself.


Chase Anderson
Visual Merchandise Specialist
Rapha Cycle Club New York City

3 p.m. on my day off because I care.

[chasea]

Were it any other retailer, I’d think such a promotion would be tongue in cheek. Rapha - I’m not sure.

Either way, I’m sure it goes over great in the factory.

It's the name of the building- an old piano factory- that is home to Rapha HQ in London.

[shovelhd]

There's a lot of speculation going on in this thread.

I could go on at length about the entitlement of the middle class- to their own detriment- based on my extensive work as a private concierge for several luxury residences, or my years of work as a butler for a royal family. But that wouldn't apply here, as each of your experiences are unique. So please afford me the same graciousness.

Rapha CCNYC strives to give each person an exemplary customer service experience, be it to purchase kit, get a coffee, watch a race, attend an event, or just to check out the club. People are usually greeted by multiple employees upon entry. On a busy day, the greeting may be in passing, but that person will be acknowledged the moment one of us has the opportunity.

We don't breathe down your neck. We give you a chance to browse (an American idea of shopping, introduced in the UK by Harry Gordon Selfridge), let you know that we do have additional inventory in the stock room should you not see your size, and ask if you're looking for a particular piece for the type of riding you do. The service is very much intended to cater to each rider's individual needs.

We embrace the fact that we're a polarizing company. And we are aware that some people are walking through the door expecting to have a negative experience, if only to justify their feelings about the brand. We try to change their minds when we can.

We're not here to push clothing on anyone, we're here to be ambassadors for the sport. That said, the neighborhood rent is high, and when someone is shopping, they do get our undivided attention. A great amount of our retail space is dedicated to the walk-in experience, rather than to pushing sales. The only other place in New York I can think of that is dedicating such a large percentage of retail space to the customer not buying product would be Rough Trade Records (another British company) with their live music venue.

Don't want to buy? Cool. We're still excited to talk with you about where you're from, what kind of riding you do, what kind of bikes you're into, or that morning's stage. We're here because we love the sport, and we want you to love it too.

If you felt snubbed, I apologize. Please understand that it was not intentional, and most likely a fluke. I assure you that you would not have that experience twice in CCNYC. It's just not possible with the level at which our staff performs; not because they're trained to behave a certain way, but because they just are a certain way. A truly great staff needs very little guidance. We have a truly great staff here.

Mike, Jimmy, Chase, Andrew, Thomas, Jessica, Carlos, Alex, Clovis, Jenn, Isaac, Jospeh, Alberto. Those are our names. Come in, meet us, and see for yourself.


Chase Anderson
Visual Merchandise Specialist
Rapha Cycle Club New York City

3 p.m. on my day off because I care.

I'll always give a place a second chance. All the customer relations things you mentioned above, I experienced exactly zero when I visited the store. I was there with my son for 30 minutes. It was not busy. I'm only stating facts based on my own experience.

[Climb01742]

There's a lot of speculation going on in this thread.

I could go on at length about the entitlement of the middle class- to their own detriment- based on my extensive work as a private concierge for several luxury residences, or my years of work as a butler for a royal family. But that wouldn't apply here, as each of your experiences are unique. So please afford me the same graciousness.

Rapha CCNYC strives to give each person an exemplary customer service experience, be it to purchase kit, get a coffee, watch a race, attend an event, or just to check out the club. People are usually greeted by multiple employees upon entry. On a busy day, the greeting may be in passing, but that person will be acknowledged the moment one of us has the opportunity.

We don't breathe down your neck. We give you a chance to browse (an American idea of shopping, introduced in the UK by Harry Gordon Selfridge), let you know that we do have additional inventory in the stock room should you not see your size, and ask if you're looking for a particular piece for the type of riding you do. The service is very much intended to cater to each rider's individual needs.

We embrace the fact that we're a polarizing company. And we are aware that some people are walking through the door expecting to have a negative experience, if only to justify their feelings about the brand. We try to change their minds when we can.

We're not here to push clothing on anyone, we're here to be ambassadors for the sport. That said, the neighborhood rent is high, and when someone is shopping, they do get our undivided attention. A great amount of our retail space is dedicated to the walk-in experience, rather than to pushing sales. The only other place in New York I can think of that is dedicating such a large percentage of retail space to the customer not buying product would be Rough Trade Records (another British company) with their live music venue.

Don't want to buy? Cool. We're still excited to talk with you about where you're from, what kind of riding you do, what kind of bikes you're into, or that morning's stage. We're here because we love the sport, and we want you to love it too.

If you felt snubbed, I apologize. Please understand that it was not intentional, and most likely a fluke. I assure you that you would not have that experience twice in CCNYC. It's just not possible with the level at which our staff performs; not because they're trained to behave a certain way, but because they just are a certain way. A truly great staff needs very little guidance. We have a truly great staff here.

Mike, Jimmy, Chase, Andrew, Thomas, Jessica, Carlos, Alex, Clovis, Jenn, Isaac, Jospeh, Alberto. Those are our names. Come in, meet us, and see for yourself.


Chase Anderson
Visual Merchandise Specialist
Rapha Cycle Club New York City

3 p.m. on my day off because I care.

Thank you for taking the time and effort to write your reply. I'm an admirer of the brand and a very pleased user of the product. Retail is brutally hard to pull off well, consistently. Given what comes through in your post, I'd guess flawed customer experiences are the exception. But if I was that ignored visitor I might find it hard to believe I was the exception. Hopefully for the brand, the store and the visitor, a second visit would demonstrate the first was a fluke.

PS Butler to a royal family? Really? Cool.

[oldpotatoe]

There's a lot of speculation going on in this thread.

I could go on at length about the entitlement of the middle class- to their own detriment- based on my extensive work as a private concierge for several luxury residences, or my years of work as a butler for a royal family. But that wouldn't apply here, as each of your experiences are unique. So please afford me the same graciousness.

Rapha CCNYC strives to give each person an exemplary customer service experience, be it to purchase kit, get a coffee, watch a race, attend an event, or just to check out the club. People are usually greeted by multiple employees upon entry. On a busy day, the greeting may be in passing, but that person will be acknowledged the moment one of us has the opportunity.

We don't breathe down your neck. We give you a chance to browse (an American idea of shopping, introduced in the UK by Harry Gordon Selfridge), let you know that we do have additional inventory in the stock room should you not see your size, and ask if you're looking for a particular piece for the type of riding you do. The service is very much intended to cater to each rider's individual needs.

We embrace the fact that we're a polarizing company. And we are aware that some people are walking through the door expecting to have a negative experience, if only to justify their feelings about the brand. We try to change their minds when we can.

We're not here to push clothing on anyone, we're here to be ambassadors for the sport. That said, the neighborhood rent is high, and when someone is shopping, they do get our undivided attention. A great amount of our retail space is dedicated to the walk-in experience, rather than to pushing sales. The only other place in New York I can think of that is dedicating such a large percentage of retail space to the customer not buying product would be Rough Trade Records (another British company) with their live music venue.

Don't want to buy? Cool. We're still excited to talk with you about where you're from, what kind of riding you do, what kind of bikes you're into, or that morning's stage. We're here because we love the sport, and we want you to love it too.

If you felt snubbed, I apologize. Please understand that it was not intentional, and most likely a fluke. I assure you that you would not have that experience twice in CCNYC. It's just not possible with the level at which our staff performs; not because they're trained to behave a certain way, but because they just are a certain way. A truly great staff needs very little guidance. We have a truly great staff here.

Mike, Jimmy, Chase, Andrew, Thomas, Jessica, Carlos, Alex, Clovis, Jenn, Isaac, Jospeh, Alberto. Those are our names. Come in, meet us, and see for yourself.


Chase Anderson
Visual Merchandise Specialist
Rapha Cycle Club New York City

3 p.m. on my day off because I care.

Well said Chase and I think you hit it here, IMHO. Wish there was a Rapha store closer but if ever in NYC, SF, London or Tokyo..it'll be on my lst to visit.

yep, in my store, some came in with the chip on shoulder, and just wanted to argue..get tired of justifying one's position..win some, won some, never lost. If they were a dick, didn't want them there anyway..not for everybody.

Ya need one in Boulder. No polarization here....:cool:

[jlwdm]

The implication was the employee had more important things to do than help any customer...or greet them.

Fast food store does not equal retail clothes store. One with centralized, funneled customers, other with roving employees. At fast food, the person taking the order had better greet the person before taking the order.

Your implication, not mine.

You missed the point on the fast food store also. The greeting is as the person walks in the door with lots of people in line at the registers.

Jeff

[oldpotatoe]

Your implication, not mine.

You missed the point on the fast food store also. The greeting is as the person walks in the door with lots of people in line at the registers.

Jeff

Sure, you bet, got it.

[chasea]

Well said Chase and I think you hit it here, IMHO. Wish there was a Rapha store closer but if ever in NYC, SF, London or Tokyo..it'll be on my lst to visit.

yep, in my store, some came in with the chip on shoulder, and just wanted to argue..get tired of justifying one's position..win some, won some, never lost. If they were a dick, didn't want them there anyway..not for everybody.

Ya need one in Boulder. No polarization here....:cool:

Boulder, 'sa bit obvious, innit? Hmmm. What's going on at the old Oil Me! space in Niwot?

[oldpotatoe]

Boulder, 'sa bit obvious, innit? Hmmm. What's going on at the old Oil Me! space in Niwot?

Liquor store, for maybe 10-15 years...did you know Emilio? Shady character. Had Eddy Gragus on his team...

Niwot hasn't really changed at all, same retail places, just changing hands. Even another bike shop, Niwot bikes, lasted about a year....owner didn't pay her bills.

Pearl st mall would be perfect...right around the Patagonia store.

[Grant McLean]

There's a lot of speculation going on in this thread.

I could go on at length about the entitlement of the middle class- to their own detriment- based on my extensive work as a private concierge for several luxury residences, or my years of work as a butler for a royal family. But that wouldn't apply here, as each of your experiences are unique. So please afford me the same graciousness.

Rapha CCNYC strives to give each person an exemplary customer service experience, be it to purchase kit, get a coffee, watch a race, attend an event, or just to check out the club. People are usually greeted by multiple employees upon entry. On a busy day, the greeting may be in passing, but that person will be acknowledged the moment one of us has the opportunity.

We don't breathe down your neck. We give you a chance to browse (an American idea of shopping, introduced in the UK by Harry Gordon Selfridge), let you know that we do have additional inventory in the stock room should you not see your size, and ask if you're looking for a particular piece for the type of riding you do. The service is very much intended to cater to each rider's individual needs.

We embrace the fact that we're a polarizing company. And we are aware that some people are walking through the door expecting to have a negative experience, if only to justify their feelings about the brand. We try to change their minds when we can.

We're not here to push clothing on anyone, we're here to be ambassadors for the sport. That said, the neighborhood rent is high, and when someone is shopping, they do get our undivided attention. A great amount of our retail space is dedicated to the walk-in experience, rather than to pushing sales. The only other place in New York I can think of that is dedicating such a large percentage of retail space to the customer not buying product would be Rough Trade Records (another British company) with their live music venue.

Don't want to buy? Cool. We're still excited to talk with you about where you're from, what kind of riding you do, what kind of bikes you're into, or that morning's stage. We're here because we love the sport, and we want you to love it too.

If you felt snubbed, I apologize. Please understand that it was not intentional, and most likely a fluke. I assure you that you would not have that experience twice in CCNYC. It's just not possible with the level at which our staff performs; not because they're trained to behave a certain way, but because they just are a certain way. A truly great staff needs very little guidance. We have a truly great staff here.

Mike, Jimmy, Chase, Andrew, Thomas, Jessica, Carlos, Alex, Clovis, Jenn, Isaac, Jospeh, Alberto. Those are our names. Come in, meet us, and see for yourself.


Chase Anderson
Visual Merchandise Specialist
Rapha Cycle Club New York City

3 p.m. on my day off because I care.

Right-on Chase.
As someone with 25+ years in bike retail,
it seems to me you really get it.

-g

[professerr]

***

[Md3000]

Half of England does that (imply royal connection) just like half of the US using the word "American" to imply some sort of official, historic, oldskool federal significance

[chasea]

Liquor store, for maybe 10-15 years...did you know Emilio? Shady character. Had Eddy Gragus on his team...

Niwot hasn't really changed at all, same retail places, just changing hands. Even another bike shop, Niwot bikes, lasted about a year....owner didn't pay her bills.

Pearl st mall would be perfect...right around the Patagonia store.

I did know him. As a freshman at CU, "Oil Me!" was emblazoned across my chest in team kit. I think he still owes a few friends of mine a bike or two.

[AngryScientist]

chase - are you back to riding now, fully recovered?

[oldpotatoe]

I did know him. As a freshman at CU, "Oil Me!" was emblazoned across my chest in team kit. I think he still owes a few friends of mine a bike or two.

Ever go into Morgul or ProPeloton? Maybe I met ya. I was the old grumpy guy with a Campagnolo tattoo on my ankle(one on arm came much later).

I still saw Fernando now and again...he still works in that blue jumpsuit.

[chasea]

Ever go into Morgul or ProPeloton? Maybe I met ya. I was the old grumpy guy with a Campagnolo tattoo on my ankle(one on arm came much later).

I still saw Fernando now and again...he still works in that blue jumpsuit.

There was a shop down the street from Emilio's place. I stopped in once and saw a bunch of Morgul frames getting sprayed. I still kind of want one of those bikes. This was 98/99.

There was also a bakery nearby where you could get a hot donut, then cross the road and watch alpacas do it. Hilarious way to end a ride for an 18 year old.

That about sums up all I'm comfortable putting in writing re: Oil Me! Bikes.

[chasea]

chase - are you back to riding now, fully recovered?

Thanks for asking.

Riding short distances. Commuting to work now and again. I've got 2 leisure rides under my belt. 14 months is a long time for muscles to atrophy, and a lot of scar tissue to have formed. I'm extremely weak and not very flexible. Cramping a lot as the legs haven't been asked to do much in a while. I have a limp that might be permanent. Truthfully, walking hurts just as bad, so might as well ride. It's a low-impact activity if you're not counting vans, right? Hope to be not more than another year or so out from regaining my pre-accident form. I dunno, we'll see.

[AngryScientist]

Thanks for asking.

Riding short distances. Commuting to work now and again. I've got 2 leisure rides under my belt. 14 months is a long time for muscles to atrophy, and a lot of scar tissue to have formed. I'm extremely weak and not very flexible. Cramping a lot as the legs haven't been asked to do much in a while. I have a limp that might be permanent. Truthfully, walking hurts just as bad, so might as well ride. It's a low-impact activity if you're not counting vans, right? Hope to be not more than another year or so out from regaining my pre-accident form. I dunno, we'll see.

good to hear chase, the road to recovery.

to keep it on topic, here's a shot of my geekhouse with that sweet, sweet rapha cinelli bar tape you sold me last year.

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-17eIJReS6fE/U43B2zzuG_I/AAAAAAAABoE/pMQpVnfrFbU/s1600/IMG_1706.JPG

[oldpotatoe]

There was a shop down the street from Emilio's place. I stopped in once and saw a bunch of Morgul frames getting sprayed. I still kind of want one of those bikes. This was 98/99.

There was also a bakery nearby where you could get a hot donut, then cross the road and watch alpacas do it. Hilarious way to end a ride for an 18 year old.

That about sums up all I'm comfortable putting in writing re: Oil Me! Bikes.

Rainbow cyclecraft, JP bought the name when M-B went under.

[professerr]

***

[harryschwartzma]

Friday August 15th

6PM-9PM

Rapha Cycle Club New York | 64 Gansevoort Street

Rapha Cycle Club New York is proud to host the opening evening of Bike Cult, a showcase of custom, hand-crafted bicycles from NYC and beyond. Join us Friday, August 15th for "Why Custom?" a roundtable discussion about the hows and whys of custom bicycles.

Guest speakers will include frame builders Rick Jones and Johnny Coast, and custom fitter Jonathan Blyer.

Beer and other light refreshments will be served.

More info here (http://bikecultshow.com/visitor-information/)