Greetings And A Farewell

Just who and what is the Vienna Pedaler?  Well, the "who" is Tim Fricker, avid cyclist, professional bicycle mechanic, and now, bicycle shop owner. I've lived and worked in Vienna for about eight years now, and have been head mechanic at bikes@vienna for the last five of those years.  While I was late to learn to ride a bike, once I learned, I never stopped, and cycling became a life long passion.

I believe cycling can be both fun and useful, so this column will address all aspects of cycling, with a focus on riding for pleasure and transportation in and around Vienna.  I'll provide riding and maintenance tips, as well as suggestions of places to enjoy exploring by bike. And from time to time, I might write about someone in the local cycling community.  In fact, that's what the rest of today's column is about.

John Brunow, founder and owner of is preparing to depart for Iowa in early December. Almost 13 years ago, John decided to take the leap and open a bicycle shop in downtown Vienna.  And while there have certainly been challenges and lean times, there's no disputing the shop has been successful.  Offering a range of bicycles, many not seen in a typical bike shop, including recumbents, folding bikes, and bikes specifically designed for people with special needs, John carved out a niche for himself in the mid-Atlantic region.  Along the way, he gained many loyal customers through his patient, low-key approach to matching the bike to the buyer while taking care of their needs and concerns.

Now, plenty of people have decided to open a retail business of one sort or another.  And more than a few are successful.  But to my mind what really sets John apart is the reason he opened bikes@vienna. He'd lived in town for a number of years, but spent most of his waking hours in DC, working in the insurance industry.  As a result, he felt little connection to the town itself and wanted to become more involved in the community (he also claimed he liked the more casual attire). In the last 13 years, he certainly has achieved that goal. Whether it's his membership and presidency in the local Rotary Club, his role on the town planning commission, his work as a member of Fairfax Advocates for Better Bicycling or simply his presence pedaling his chocolate lab Java around in a laundry basket on a Dutch cargo bike, John has been a fixture and a feature in the town of Vienna.

He will be sorely missed, by customers, neighbors, employees and friends. 

So come join me in a farewell gathering for John and his wife Ces tonight during the Holiday Stroll. It will be at Bikes at Vienna, 128A Church St, N.W., between 6 and 9 p.m.  Snacks and beverages will be provided and are welcome.