Old Station Cycle Opens on Chippewa Road

Looking for a new bike?

How about a custom frame?

You’re in luck. Old Station Cycle and Atlas Framing Gallery offers both.

The new store opened its doors this month at 12417 Chippewa Road.

Husband and wife duo Ben and Lee DiSante never really set out to start a business. 

After all, they both have comfortable day jobs: Ben at Swagelok and Lee as a school nurse in the Maple Heights school district.

They’ve also got three children.

“Ben’s always wanted to have a bike shop,” said Lee. “We knocked on the door and a week later (the previous owners) said they’d like to sell it to us.”

The couple focuses on bikes, but a framing shop is also a part of the business.  The store will offer new and used refurbished bikes for sale.

“We can fix just about anything,” said Lee. “People really like their bikes. People want to be safe.”

The store offers plenty of bike gear— think helmets, gloves, clothing and locks.

Those interested in renting a bike for an excursion through the abundant area parks will have the opportunity with Old Station Cycle offering rentals at the nearby trailhead on Station Road.

The DiSantes have solicited the help of their three children to work at the store.

“We’re not ready to hire anyone yet,” said Lee DiSante, smiling.

The building was originally used as a Sinclair gas station. The couple pays homage to the history of the property, displaying vintage gas station finds and other interesting trinkets on the walls.

Ben spent months gutting and renovating the space (the floor is concrete with stone pieces that form the shape of a groovy bicycle).

And after approval from the city and obtaining financing for the project, the couple — married for 27 years — opened the store this month.

But there’s also a framing shop — the former full-time use of the space — in the rear of the building to allow for some seasonal business when the weather’s not suited for biking.

“When we bought the place, the framing came with it,” she said. “And Ben’s a carpenter.”

Lee said that even though there aren’t plans to leave their day jobs, their passion is in their new family business.

“When Ben pulls in here at 5 o’clock, you’d think he just woke up,” Lee added. “He’s just so passionate and full of energy.”

The store is open from noon to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.