Gear up for Total Greatness: Q&A w/ Robby Gauss of Total Cyclery
“It’s all about the love of cycling. I want to help people who want to ride a bike, find the enjoyment and simplicity of it.” – Robby
Meet Robby Gauss of Total Cyclery, the driving force behind Total Cyclery, a beloved fixture in Downtown Kenosha. With a lifelong love for cycling, Robby’s journey from racing prodigy to business owner is a testament to dedication and family support.
In this interview, Robby shares insights into Total Cyclery’s origins, his personal connection to cycling, and the challenges and joys of running a downtown business. From his humble beginnings racing at the velodrome to embracing the family legacy, Robby’s story is one of perseverance and passion.
Discover Robby’s favorite bike routes, the remarkable experiences that define his role in the community, and his commitment to providing top-notch service to fellow cyclists. Join us as we pedal through the vibrant landscape of Downtown Kenosha, guided by Robby’s unwavering dedication to the sport he loves. So enjoy the ride
You are known as a local cycling icon. Could you share a bit about yourself and how you achieved success in cycling?
Robby: My grandmother, Helen, got us started in cycling by telling us about the Stock Bike Program that took place before the licensed races. It took off from there. I started racing at 5 and still race today. I had parents that were willing to drive my brother and I across the country to race every weekend and great resources and mentors, including the great Bob Pfarr that coached and trained at the Kenosha Velodrome. As with anything, training and working hard are the keys to success, you have to be willing to put in the time to achieve results. I was fortunate to have supportive parents and the world’s best coaches/mentors to guide me.
What is your history and connection to the Velodrome?
Robby: I started racing there in 1977 at 5 years old and have been involved in many ways over the years. From racing to being on the board as well as teaching others to ride.
Initially hesitant to take over the family business from your father, what ultimately changed your mind?
Robby: It was my wife, Melanie. She said if it’s something you think you would like to do and continue on the family business, then you need to ask questions about the financials, as this was something that had never been discussed. She convinced me to have the conversation to see if it was financially doable so we could set out a plan.
What inspired your parents to open a bike shop?
Robbie: My parents decided to open up a bicycle shop because my brother and I were really into riding and racing. All the money they were spending on bikes and everything that goes with it, they thought it a good way to get the best prices on the latest and newest cycling equipment. And my dad did most of our repairs and maintenance as well as it was, why not do it and get paid for it.
How did you and your family come up with the name for the shop?
Robby: My parents, brother and I were all sitting around the living room brainstorming name ideas. My brother and I were drawing pictures of different bikes and saying ’Totally Bikes” and it just kind of came together with everyone talking, saying different things bicycle related. It definitely was a whole family compilation of ideas.
Can you describe Total Cyclery in your own words?
Robby: Hometown family owned and operated. It’s all about the love of cycling. I want to help people who want to ride a bike, find the enjoyment and simplicity of it. It is for everyone, and I hope I can help people find the joy in riding that I do.
What was your first bike, and which bike is your all-time favorite?
Robby: My first bike was a Schwinn 20 inch with a removable top tube. My favorite of all time, that’s harder to answer… I am currently riding a Derosa Merek, a road bike, and it is definitely a favorite. From track to mountain to fat-tire bikes, there have been many that can be considered a favorite for the specific type of riding being done.
Could you walk us through a typical day as a bike shop owner?
Robby: Not one day is the same that’s for sure. Summer is busy from open to close, from helping people who come in with a flat tire, those needing a tune up or a complete overhaul and everything in between. Then assisting customers who are looking for a new bike, this can range from a simple beach cruiser all the way to the newest craze, the E-bike. I need to get to know what kind of cycling they are looking to do, that way I can match them up with the perfect bike. Every day brings in something new, I like seeing the old (back from when my parents owned it) customers and the new faces that come through the door, all in the name of cycling.
What bike would you recommend to new customers?
Robby: It really depends on what they are looking to do with riding, but most common is a Hybrid/Comfort style. It is an upright sitting, city cruising bike.
Have you noticed an increase in repairs for old bikes that people are pulling out of storage or thrifting?
Robby: Covid really had an impact on bicycle availability, with the initial mad rush of customers buying new bikes and inventory being depleted quickly, it left others dusting off the old bikes sitting in the garage that had not seen the light of day in years. While bike supplies are back to normal, people definitely found that those old bikes they had sitting around were just waiting to have their day again. I have seen some pretty cool, old bikes come through the door that have been given a new lease on life with some TLC.
A few years ago, you added a mobile bicycle repair service. Can you explain how that works and what motivated you to introduce this aspect to your business?
Robby: The idea had been cultivating for a little while, but it was Covid that helped fuel the idea into fruition. People would come into the shop and ask if I could help with a bike that they were not able to transport for one reason or another. So after many a discussion with family and an old shop manager, I decided to set out and give it a try. Nothing ventured nothing gained. The process is simple really, go to TotalClcleryRepair.com, select book now and it will bring up a calendar where you pick the day and time. Total Cyclery will come to you!
What other services do you offer for bikes?
Robby: General bike repair all the way to custom builds. Not much that I have come across that I haven’t been able to tackle. Only thing not done would be a frame build.
Where is your favorite place to go for a ride?
Robby: Love the country roads.
Can you tell us about some community services you’ve contributed to, such as the Jefferson Elementary and bikes for the Kenosha Police Department?
Robby: I work with the Kenosha Police and Sheriff’s Departments, as well as Carthage and Parkside colleges and the Kenosha Velodrome. And yes, assisting in bringing life back to the bikes discovered in the basement at Jefferson Elementary school.
Are there any plans to expand Total Cyclery?
Robby: The brick and mortar along with the mobile repair are keeping me very busy for now.
What bike brands do you carry, and what makes them unique?
Robby: I carry Giant, the largest bike manufacturer in the world, as well as Cannondale, Sun and Velotric.
Can you help customers choose a bike that fits their riding style and budget?
Robby: There are many types, styles and price ranges to fit everyone’s needs and budgets.
Do you provide warranties or maintenance packages with bike purchases?
Robby: With the purchase of a new bike there is a manufacturer warranty. I am thinking about how I can incorporate maintenance packages/deals with the purchase of a new bike, stay tuned………
What accessories do you recommend for beginners?
Robby: Helmets are a must as well as the proper lighting. It is law in Kenosha to have both a headlight and taillight, to avoid a $75 fine.
Do you offer bike fitting services for a comfortable and efficient ride?
Robby: Yes, I do offer bike fitting services to help find the best fit for each individual need.
Are there any upcoming promotions or sales?
Robby: There will be a bicycle sale coming up this year…..stay tuned…..
How often should bikes come in for maintenance?
Robby: Depending on how much riding is done, avid cyclist should come in once a year otherwise every other year for maintenance is recommended. The tune up is the most common service, a good once over: true the wheels, adjust gears and brakes, clean, oil and check ware parts. Also a complete overhaul, same as tune up, add rebuild of bearings, headset, bottom bracket and wheels, also new cables and housings. Don’t forget the flat repairs, chain repairs and everything in between.
What do you love about Downtown Kenosha?
Robby: The atmosphere, love seeing people out and about, walking, riding and enjoying all that is Downtown Kenosha. We really do have an amazing lakefront and downtown businesses. I am excited for all the new things in store for the downtown.
What sets Total Cyclery apart from others in Downtown Kenosha?
Robby: The only bike shop located downtown.
What’s something about Downtown Kenosha that you’d like new residents to know?
Robby: There are many great places to visit, from restaurants to breweries to small shops with unique items. So many great activities for the whole family that take place all year round.
What are some of your personal favorite activities to do in Downtown Kenosha?
Robby: My wife and I enjoy the atmosphere that is Downtown Kenosha. We like the restaurant options as well as the many breweries that are filling up. The lakefront itself is great to walk or ride around. There is not a weekend in the summer where you won’t find something fun going on, from markets to music, there is something for everyone.
Do you offer bike rentals, and if so, what types of bikes are available?
Robby: Yes I offer bike rentals, generally a Comfort/Hybrid style bike.
Can you recommend any local bike routes or trails for different skill levels?
Robby: If you like to Mountain bike, the new Pets trails are great, Silver Lake has nice courses as well.
What’s the biggest challenge you face as a business owner?
Robby: The biggest challenge is being a small business and having to compete with places like Amazon. Although they can’t repair and maintain a bike like I can 🙂
Total Cyclery
5039 6th Ave, Kenosha, WI,
(262) 652-2222
totalcycleryrepair.com
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Q&A, Photos & Concept by Donny Stancato • Edited by Meridith Jumisko & Donny Stancato
