Belmars Bike Shop’s Beach Front BBQ Bash
Photos and words by Jarrod Bunk

It was 2002 and Kyle was sitting inside of what was at the time DJs Bikes in Belmar, NJ, 16 bright-eyed and loving bikes. Ten years later Hurricane Sandy shook the eastern seaboard, in its wake not much made it through the winter, not even the bicycle shop Kyle worked at 10 years earlier.  With five grand a hell of a lot of heart, hard work, and surely ramen noodle meals, Kyle, friends, and family built Belmar Bike Shop in what was once his former employer’s space that winter, hibernation can sometimes be a great catalyst for change. Looking back to that first year, and all of the uncertainty Kyle said he’s stoked he took that first step, now in year 7 its been a wild ride and was even the original birthplace of Crust Bikes before moving down the street. My first interaction with Belmar Bike Shop was watching Kyle huck in Tahoe, so when I was invited to spend a few days checking out Belmar a few months ago cause I knew for sure I’d be in for a party.

Belmar Bike Shop is minutes from the beach and short drive to Allaire State Park, home to trails that you can find your flow on, with some burly lines if you really want to party. The proximity to so many different types of riding makes Belmar Bikes a pretty unique experience, and breeds quite a wild customer base, whether you’re a dual suspension cowboy or a sandal boi, they’ve got you covered, although they believe all you need is a hardtail to party.   In 6 short years, Kyle and the crew at Belmar Bikes have revitalized what was once an old bike shop but with a fresh spin, a place to grill and chill, and the best vibe.  If you’re near the coast give them a visit and be sure to check out their space which is an awesome mix of heritage and hucking. This certainly is a bike shop that is built, not bought.

____

Follow Belmar Bike Shop on Instagram and Jarrod on Instagram