Our History
The Families of South Side Cyclery
The Chappuis-Blackwood Family
Velmo Chappuis, “Chap” to his friends, opened Meramec Cycle in 1933, the first in a long line of stores owned by the Chappuis and Blackwood families. Velmo raced with the St. Louis Cycling Club, and his family lived above the store.
The Blackwood family came on the scene in the 1970s, when Velmo’s nephew, Bud Blackwood, left a stressful career as a Colonial Bakery executive to join the business. By then, Meramec Cycle had grown into South Side Cyclery and Velmo was ready to retire. Bud bought South Side in 1971.
The Blackwood Family
Growing up working for his father, Tony Blackwood eventually brought the business from his father in 1991. With the success of South Side Cyclery, Tony and his wife, Donna later bought South County Cyclery and then helped their son “LT” aka Little Tony open his own shop, Trans AM Cyclery in Farmington, MO. At the end of 2020 Tony and Donna decided it was time to retire and head to the lake full time. While “retired”, Tony will be offering bike repair services Lake of The Ozarks Bicycle Service and Repair.
The Kakouris Family
South Side Cyclery continues to thrive with new owners, Tim “TK” Kakouris and his wife, Deanna. TK and Deanna Kakouris have been involved in St. Louis cycling as a couple since 2007, but TK’s cycling history dates back even further to his Pro BMX days in the 80's. The Kakouris family continues to offer the neighbor bicycle shop that long time customers have always loved while introducing even more products and services for advancing your cycling goals and living healthy lifestyle while riding happy.
Why Shop With Us?
From professional bike repair and fitting services to top cycling products at exceptional prices, we've got you covered.
Quality & Value
We sell products from the best bicycle brands in the world. We offer great value to our customers through competitive pricing, quality products, and superior customer service.
Friendly Staff
We aren't your average bike shop. Our staff is helpful and crazy about cycling. We listen to your needs and work hard to help you find precisely the right products for you.
Free Local Pickup
Finding the perfect bike and cycling gear is easy when you shop with us. Explore our selection online, place your order, and we’ll have it ready for you soon. Easy and convenient!Browse Our Bike Selection
Find your dream bike today and visit us for a test ride. We'll ensure that you're on the right bike to meet your needs and the right frame size for a comfortable, safe cycling experience.
