As someone who's enjoyed two decades of shop life, it's hard to describe the impact, relationships, and culture that those years have encompassed. Selling and working on bikes in Knoxville, TN is just a small part of what we do. It's the after-work rides, weekend trips, local events, customers that become the closest of friends, those friends lingering most of the day, and being a contributor the development of our community that drives us.
We just have to sell and work on a few bikes to make that happen. Luckily, we like bikes too. Odds are, if you know someone who grew up in Knoxville, they got their first bike at Harpers. It's a heritage we're proud of, and if you'd like know a bit more about how a young Walter Harper Sr. fell into the bike business, Here's a few words on the Harpers story by his daughter Mick Doane.
We just have to sell and work on a few bikes to make that happen. Luckily, we like bikes too. Odds are, if you know someone who grew up in Knoxville, they got their first bike at Harpers. It's a heritage we're proud of, and if you'd like know a bit more about how a young Walter Harper Sr. fell into the bike business, Here's a few words on the Harpers story by his daughter Mick Doane.
Services
We offer the best bike repair service in Knoxville. Whether you're buying a new bike, getting your current ride ready for a new season, need technical repairs or upgrades that require a higher than average level of professionalism, our benches are staffed with over a half century of experience. Our turnover times are quicker than nearly all of our competitors, because we want you out riding, not waiting on your bicycle.
Everybody has their own style and taste when it comes to mountain bikes, and it can be tricky to decide what's right for you. That's where we come in. We carry a diverse array of mountain bikes and brands. From an all-out dream machine with a sky's the limit budget, to your first mountain bike, or anything in between.
Road cycling has grown into one of the most popular sports across the globe. It's beauty is in its diversity. For some, it's training. For others, it's meditation. For everyone, it's a blast. The rolling hills and scenic landscapes here in East Tennessee offer up some of the finest riding around. Giant's dedication to road cycling from the pro peloton to the needs of everyday riders has been front and center for over three decades.
We're the only shop in town that has been consistently dedicated to keeping BMX alive in Knoxville. The easy answer is that we're the only bike shop in town that has been consistently dedicated to keeping the sport alive in Knoxville. We've always got a few bikes and plenty of parts in stock, and we host an annual BMX event you shouldn't miss.
Come on down, take a ride, and let us help you find a bike that you'll look forward to riding. Over the last fifteen years the recreational category has grown more than almost any other discipline of cycling. There was a time when there was only one choice, the hybrid bike. Today, there are a half dozen or more variations of the hybrid.
Reviews (23)
Victor Gomez
Jan 25, 2022
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Tim Swann
Jan 24, 2022
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We were in town for the weekend and stopped by to take a look at the Giant bikes. We worked with Ohio Matt and Seattle Matt, both of whom were very knowledgeable and helpful. Seattle Matt even finished up building a large Talon 2 just so I could give it a quick ride around the parking lot. Ohio Matt walked me through the process of how I could order from the Giant warehouse and have it sent to a local Giant dealer to be built. You can't go wrong with Harper's.
JUST A GREAT BUNCH OF GUYS!!!!!
JUST A GREAT BUNCH OF GUYS!!!!!
Ronald Earls
Jan 01, 2022
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I took my bike to their shop the week before christmas for new tires and brakes. Got it back just before new years. Estimate was for approx $200 but ended up just $130. How often does that ever happen? Guys in the shop were great to work with, well worth my 1 hr drive to get there. They all bring their dogs to work with them, how cool is that. Will use their services again when needed.
Dan Ives
Dec 21, 2021
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Tonyia Kudej
Oct 18, 2021
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Chase Brannon
Sep 24, 2021
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Bought an old specialized 2nd hand that I brought in to Harpers. My goal was to swap out the loopy handlebars for a flat bar because I love that look and wanted it for my beermarket bike build. One of the associates begrudgingly came over to help while eating his lunch and basically asked why I had this bike at all. "Frame doesn't fit you, seat angle is wrong, why do you want new handlebars? Where did you get this again?? What did you pay?" All unprovoked with a mouth full of food. I didn't come in for his stamp of approval of my 90s chromoly, I simply wanted to know the handlebar diameter. After
Davis Coulter
Sep 22, 2021
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My bike wasn’t shifting correctly so I brought it in for a tuneup, and when it still wasn’t shifting perfectly after I called Harpers and they got me in right away, replacing the shifters the same day. This was much appreciated given the perfect weather for riding currently. Would recommend this shop because they stand behind their work
Timothy Magro
Aug 01, 2021
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Best bike shop in Knoxville!!!!! Thanks again and again guys!
They do world class work on your bikes! They all are very friendly, knowledgeable and caring. They will answer any questions you have and they have a amazing selection of bikes and gear! I bought my first BMX here over 20 years ago and just got my Nomad today!
In the market for bikes or maintenance or gear you must stop here!!!!!
They do world class work on your bikes! They all are very friendly, knowledgeable and caring. They will answer any questions you have and they have a amazing selection of bikes and gear! I bought my first BMX here over 20 years ago and just got my Nomad today!
In the market for bikes or maintenance or gear you must stop here!!!!!
ZAk F.
Apr 13, 2021
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Matthew H.
Jan 11, 2021
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I bought my bike from here about 5 years ago. I had a great experience when I bought it. I bought a Giant XTC hardtail 29er and rode trails all over the southeast. Unfortunately, I recently had my bike stolen and needed the serial number and details of the bike. I no longer had a receipt so I called Harpers. They came through for me and was able to provide everything that I needed to submit a police report and also to insurance. Thank you so much!
Cheli L.
Nov 12, 2020
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Sorely disappointed, picked up new ebike today, was handed a used charger that was scratched up without a plastic cover on it and just one key, appears VERY used. I bought the very same bike in a different size for my husband the day before at another bike shop out of town and I was given a book & booklet in a plastic bag and a charger in a box and it had a plastic shield on it and it had protective caps that was also not included with my purchase at Harpers. Paid the same price for the bike at both stores, yet did not get all that Giant includes with this bike, I got a very used charger
Mike B.
Oct 19, 2020
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This bike shop is exceptional and excellent, especially during this very busy season. They pay attention to detail and took great care of my service needs while waiting on many other customers. Wes, Matt and the crew went over the top to keep my bike Shreddin the trails. Go to the back of the store for service and there's a nice parking lot to demo bikes.
Steven L.
Sep 09, 2020
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Ameron L.
Jul 26, 2020
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Spot on. These guys are top notch! If I could give 10 stars, I would. Thought our weekend getaway was ruined after one trip down hill. Not only did they fix our bike needs quickly, but they were friendly and went above and beyond by selling us a personal part we needed that was not in stock. We are forever grateful. Solid advise and knowledge about all components. It's not every day you walk into a shop like this! We will be back
Kaitlyn W.
Jul 03, 2020
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I came here to get a rear luggage rack. I waited outside for 22 minutes while another couple test drove bicycles trying to make a decision on what to buy. There were no other customers besides the couple and me. I respect we can't go inside but please don't make people wait outside in 90 degree weather when they know what they want to purchase.
James B.
Sep 05, 2019
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I have never visited a bike shop, in the 3 states that I have lived, where I felt they cared more about my needs and wants rather than how much money I spend. Every employee I have dealt with at Harpers is caring and takes however much time it takes. I will definitely make them my exclusive bike shop in Knoxville. I cannot recommend them enough.
Rkb
Aug 09, 2019
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Quality service as good as this shop offers is a rare jewel. I took a 1960 vintage bike in to them to evaluate and see if they could get it ride-worthy, after 40+ years of non-use. Tires and tubes were long gone, chains were rusted, and it would not move at all. The professionals at Harpers proved their knowledge, skills and expertise by getting the bike running really smoothly, with new tires, chains, and a lengthy list of adjustments. All of this was kept within my budget and completed by the time they stated it would take. And through it all everyone was very personable and glad to help. It
April N.
Jun 26, 2019
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First: They have the cutest lazy dog. Immediately impressed by their space and the overall design of the store. My family & I met Neil who was really a knowledgeable sales guy and he helped us score an awesome helmet for our little guy. Good to know cool cats are in K Town too, highly recommend you go check them out.
Charles E.
Dec 15, 2018
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Today was my first experience at Harpers. I was assisted by Jeff. My bike was to get a "Pro" service. My bike was dropped off when the shop opened. Jeff called me later to check-in with status of the bike and to suggest a tire change. I appreciated his update, and the suggestion was very appropriate. My bike was ready on time and Jeff informed me that he didn't think the bike needed a full tune, but he did a safety check on it at a greatly reduced rate. I appreciate a business that doesn't do something if it's unnecessary, just to make a buck. My experience here was a great
Ruann L.
Sep 29, 2018
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Five stars are likely in order for the work they do, however, their work is overshadowed by the lack of customer service.
Customer service is a big part of owning a business. Customer service isn't just great work but includes so much more like: acknowledging a customer when he/she walks in, actively engaging with the customer to see how you can help him/her, suggesting ideas about how to make the experience better, calling the customer to let him/her know the item is ready, appearing grateful for the business, and not making the customer feel like it's a burden that he/she is doing
Customer service is a big part of owning a business. Customer service isn't just great work but includes so much more like: acknowledging a customer when he/she walks in, actively engaging with the customer to see how you can help him/her, suggesting ideas about how to make the experience better, calling the customer to let him/her know the item is ready, appearing grateful for the business, and not making the customer feel like it's a burden that he/she is doing
Debra H.
Sep 20, 2016
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I had back surgery and switched from running to cycling. I am a true novice and full of questions. These guys went the extra mile to answer all of my questions- and there were a lot- and custom built a bike to fit my physical needs and my preferences. They spent hours letting me ride different styles until we figured it out. I will highly recommend them to anyone and will be a loyal customer until I'm too old to exercise (which means- I'm dead). Love them!!!
Jenny S.
May 04, 2016
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I have lived in 5 states and visited countless bike shops, but I have never stepped in one that comes close to Harper's. To date, I have purchased a Santa Cruz mountain bike, Giant road and commuter bikes, and a Surely fat bike from Harper's. They have great product selection for every price point, and while arguably not as extensive as larger stores, the inventory is thoughtfully chosen to assist the consumer--and if they don't have something in stock, they are quick to make custom orders. The staff is a fun playful group, super knowledgeable, and all experienced riders. The
Josh M.
Aug 06, 2012
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I always learn a bit more after my visits. Even though I haven't spent a lot of money there, they have always been more than happy to assist me in my bike repairs. I would recommend to anyone looking for a local bike shop for maintenance or if you want to purchase a bike. Many bike shops can create a feeling of elitism and are not very welcoming. I have always felt welcome at Harpers. I hope they keep up the good work.