Washington, D.C.’s well-known bike shop District Hardware and Bike has shut down last weekend, after serving the city for 48 years.
The business announced its decision on November 30 through a statement on its website.
“For 50 years we’ve operated District Hardware and Bike as an independent, family owned small business, and have done our best to bring a unique, neighborhood-focused concept to fruition. Unfortunately, things haven’t worked out the way we thought or planned, and we are unable to continue operating,” the statement said.
The shop owners added that they were planning to directly get in touch with their customers “for any repairs, special orders, or the like.”
Founded in 1971 by Stanley Conway, a British Immigrant and World War II veteran, District Hardware and Bike did not only offer bike and electric scooter repair, rental and trade-in, but also lawn & garden, kitchen & dining products.
In October 2017, it moved from its Foggy Bottom location to the Wharf in Southwest. The shop organized community bike rides and also had the “Velo Café.”
“While some things have changed since Stanley opened up shop in ’71, we remain a friendly group of handy, helpful and community-minded people. Stanley fostered a service-focused mentality and we are more dedicated than ever to help you with your needs, no matter what,” the store’s website says.
The Bike Rack’s Brookland branch and BicycleSpace in Adams Morgan and on K Street also closed in recent years.