A Message from Jay

The late 60’s and early 70’s were unique in the bike industry because of the introduction of “light weight” 10 speed bicycles imported from Europe. During that time, my father, Bob Graves, was affectionately known as a gear-head because of his fascination with these new bikes. He loved bikes but was challenged by the poor service experienced at local shops while fueling his passion for bikes and bike gear. He knew cyclists deserved a better experience and was confident he could provide it. So, in 1974, he opened a small bike shop built on a customer service foundation: Bike Gallery.

Bike Gallery has grown over the years because of this commitment to customer service. What started as a small store on NE Sandy Boulevard has now grown to six Portland area locations. Each store expansion has come from other bike shops in town (former competitors) calling us and asking us to buy their business. They appreciated the integrity with which we ran our business and wanted their shop to continue as a bicycle resource for their neighborhoods.

Besides teaching my sisters and me about customer service (dad was a master at listening to customers), my dad also taught us the importance of giving back to the community in which you live and work. That lesson stuck with me and has driven my involvement in numerous local non profits. I spent 12 years on the Bicycle Transportation Alliance board, was a founding board member of the Community Cycling Center (14 years) and a founding and current board member of Cycle Oregon. I also sit on the board of the National Bicycle Dealers Association were my goal is to help other bicycle retailers to improve business practices. Recently I also joined the Oregon State Parks Commission Board which oversees 235 state parks because I believe that parks and recreation are important components of a livable community. I also encourage Bike Gallery staff to get involved in the community both on and off the job.

The bike industry is special in that, every day, I have the opportunity to affect change in people’s lives! Regardless of whether a bike is purchased for fun, sport, or transportation, I have seen many people improve their lives because they started riding. They experience the joy of going by bike: reducing stress, losing weight, feeling much happier because of the activity in their lives, or saving time and money. Seeing the difference that bikes have made in our customers’ lives keeps me coming back to the work I love, every day!

Lastly, I am proud to see another Graves generation carry on the family tradition as my children become involved in the business. Currently two of my four children are working fulltime at the Bike Gallery. It brings me great joy to stop in and see my kids helping our customers with the same care and attention that I saw my father giving to his customers.

Happy cycling,

Jay Graves
Owner / Grand Fromage

Monica, Jay, Zach and Simon Graves at the Providence Bridge Pedal