Some bike shops talk about community. Revolution Bikes actually builds it, one trail at a time. Located at 5 Donnelly Street in Havelock North, this MTB focused shop has been serving Hawke's Bay riders since their current owners took over in 2009. With Te Mata Peak's trail network literally on their doorstep, they've turned lunchtime rides into a regular thing and trail maintenance into a community event.
Their partnership with Cube bikes started in 2015, drawn by what owner Hilton describes as good range, great quality and great pricing. Since then, they've watched Hawke's Bay's cycling scene boom, with regular groups of 20 to 30 riders exploring the region's famous limestone trails. From bikepacking setups to youth cycling programmes, Revolution Bikes covers the lot while staying true to their mountain biking roots.
Tell us about Revolution Bikes' story.
"We bought the business in 2009 as it was time for a change and this was an opportunity that was too good to pass up."
What's your speciality in the Hawke's Bay cycling scene?
"Revolution Bikes does a little of everything. We are predominantly a MTB focussed store but sell comfort bikes, gravel, e-bikes and kids bikes. We also have a great team of bike packing riders that attend our yearly Bike Packing Event."
How long have you been working with Cube bikes, and what attracted you to the brand?
"We sold our first Cube in 2015. Good range of bikes, great quality and great pricing. Why wouldn't you want to stock them!!"
Which Cube models are your top sellers, and why do Hawke's Bay riders choose them?
"Kathmandu, Reaction, Stereo. Great range, great quality and great price!!"
Any standout customer success stories with Cube bikes?
"All our customers are success stories. They have brought a good quality bike and have loved it from day one. Then what's best is they share it through their communities."
What's your favourite local ride to recommend to Cube owners?
"If you're keen to head off-road, Te Mata Peak is the place to go! The trail network up there has some awesome grade 3–5 tracks that make a perfect loop right from the shop. We often sneak out at lunchtime for a quick e-bike ride and are back within the hour — it's such a great break in the day! If you're after something a bit more relaxed, you can't go wrong with the limestone trails. Head out from the shop and follow the limestone paths along the riverbank to the coast. There are plenty of great stops along the way — grab a coffee at Red Bridge, enjoy lunch at Hygge, and finish with a few wine tastings at Askerne, Te Mata, Black Barn, Elephant Hill, or Clearview. The options are endless!"
What services set your shop apart from other retailers?
"We run a no booking service here. Drop the bike in first thing and most times it's turned around in a day (or two if really busy!!). Our jam is setting up bikes for bikepacking adventures. We have a good variety of bags in store and use our own to show customers what can be done. We recently sold a Cube Reaction that we kitted out for adventures off the beaten track. He loves it and is planning some epic rides around NZ."
Do you offer special perks for your customers?
"Its standard when you buy a new bike with us you get a 6 week or 500km service free."
How are you involved in the local cycling community?
"We're proud to play an active role in trail maintenance around Hawke's Bay. Over the winter months, we organise dig days up on Te Mata Peak to help keep the trail network in great shape. Come spring, we coordinate scrub-cutting and spraying to keep the trails clear and enjoyable. Most recently, we teamed up with Baywide Dingos to build the new Tamariki Track on Chambers Walkway at Te Mata Peak — an awesome addition to the local trail network!"
How do you see cycling's future in Hawke's Bay?
"The Hawke's Bay region is thriving, with our local mountain bike park being rebuilt following Cyclone Gabrielle. The park now offers around 71 km of trails, including both singletrack and forestry roads. Our cycleways have also been restored, and the network is once again complete—attracting more riders than ever. Cycling in Hawke's Bay is booming, especially with the beautiful weather encouraging people to get out on their bikes. The Cycling in Schools programme is also expanding, helping our tamariki gain confidence and learn how to ride safely. The local Hawke's Bay E-Bike Riders group meets two to three times a week, and it's not uncommon to see groups of 20–30 riders enjoying the limestone trails."
Where's your favourite post-ride stop in Havelock North?
"Beers at the shop! The only way to end a good ride with your mates."
What are your essential accessories for every bike purchase?
"Check your helmet.... it might be time for a new one!!! One that has been in the shed for 10 years isn't going to cut it out on the trails."
Your advice for first-time bike buyers?
"Don't do too much research!!! Trust that we know what we are talking about. Asking friends who are not educated in the bike industry will lead you down a path that you may regret!!"
Tell us about your team.
"Swing past the shop and catch up with any of the team. Hilton (owner) has a wealth of knowledge and enjoys sharing it with others. Claire (sales/admin) is always good for a chat and is great at all things youth cycling and events and Jake (Mechanic) is the go to man for getting your bikes dialled in. He can repair almost anything that comes his way."
Ready to experience Cube quality?
Visit Revolution Bikes and discover why their customers love their Cube bikes from day one. Whether you're planning bikepacking adventures around New Zealand or lunchtime loops at Te Mata Peak, Hilton and the team will match you with the perfect Cube bike and provide expert setup to get you riding confidently.
Drop by Revolution Bikes at 5 Donnelly Street, Havelock North or visit www.revolutionbikes.co.nz. Check them out on Instagram or Facebook
