A bicycle establishment in Albuquerque that has existed for nearly half a century is closing its doors. The Bike Coop near Yale and Central has been so inundated by criminal activity that they can no longer remain open.
The Bike Coop is a local Albuquerque enterprise that has existed for 46 years. It has been located at the intersection of Yale and Central for thirteen years, but is now leaving. Even though Amanda Batty has a passion for motorcycles, she is unable to manage the rising crime rate.
The store has endured shattered windows, graffiti, and broken doors, but last week’s call about an intruder ultimately drove her over the brink.
Amanda Batty, owner of the Bike Coop, says, “That was it, that was the final straw that broke the camel’s back, and I thought, ok I can’t do this anymore, I can’t live like this anymore.”
According to Batty, she oversees the store by herself and has been coping with issues monthly. She reports that monthly maintenance are costing her thousands of dollars, and she cannot keep up with the costs.
Albuquerque’s 46-year-old bike shop is shuttering because of violent crime.
Batty states, “There comes a time when swimming upstream reveals the stream to be a waterfall.”
The Bike Coop notified consumers via email of the closing. They state that they will fulfill all customer obligations prior to their official closure.
“Yeah, I’m disappointed, you need to establish a new relationship with a new store, locate someone you can trust…”It will be greatly missed,” says Bike Coop patron Steven Baker.
More Butts On Bikes is the non-profit organization affiliated with the Bike Coop. Free bicycles are provided to youth in the community. According to them, the organization will continue through their website. Batty expresses appreciation for the community’s support over the years.
“We’ve been in business for 46 years, and this is the end of an era,” says Batty. “This would not have been possible without everyone who has kept us afloat.”
The Bike Coop reports that their final closing sale will take place over Memorial Day weekend. A portion of the ultimate sales proceeds will be donated to the non-profit.