Both hard core and novice bicycle riders, as well as prospective newbies, have a new place to go to purchase brand name bicycles, top of the line accessories or to simply get needed repairs.

Following almost a year of prep work, Dn'A Bikes opened its doors in downtown Tamaqua recently.The shop is owned and operated by Rich and Jen Stianche of Tamaqua. They have two children; Alexa, 10, and Derian, 12, who help at the shop."A lot of engineering goes into the manufacture of our quality bikes," said Rich Stianche. "Ride one of our bikes, and you'll feel the difference.""Our bicycles are high quality, light, and range from single speed to 30 speed," he added. "Most don't require much maintenance. Just get up and go."He said the shop offers a wide array of bicycle frames, including aluminum, steel, carbon fiber and even titanium.Accessories include helmets, backpacks, bags, gloves, apparel and shoes. Stianche said that service after the sale is priority.Special guests on-hand during the grand opening were Schuylkill County Commissioner George Halcovage and state Rep. Jerry Knowles. They both expressed the importance of supporting small businesses and knowing the benefits that local businesses offer to the community.Stianche said he decided to start the business after being run over by a car while working for an area delivery company. He also used to manage Jama Bikes, which was once located on the same block.Since its opening last month, the store has already stepped up in the community by offering free group bicycle rides and co-sponsoring the Coal Cracker Classic, which took place last week in the mountains surrounding Tamaqua."We plan to remain very active in the community," added Stianche, who said there are 70 miles of bicycle paths surrounding Tamaqua. "Our shop will serve as a center for many outdoor activities throughout the area."He said he would like to see bicycle racks placed around key locations throughout Tamaqua, adding that riding serves as a healthier and cheaper alternative versus driving."Small businesses serve as the forefront, as well as provide future growth of area communities," said Linda Yulanavage, executive director, Tamaqua Chamber of Commerce. "Without them, there wouldn't be a Tamaqua."The shop's business hours are Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Wednesday, 11a.m. to 8 p.m.; Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. They are closed Sunday and Monday.The shop is located at 115 West Broad St. For more information visit them on Facebook or call 570-668-5140.Stianche, age 37, said he started to become a bicycle enthusiast at the age of 20."Everybody rode bicycles as a kid. It is just as fun now as it was back then."