MANAYUNK

Blog article by Manayunk Development Corporation Summer Intern, Katie Kavanaugh.

Family owned and located in Manayunk since 2000, Human Zoom has just about everything a cyclist could possibly need before hitting the trails. Owner Mike Bufo says, “We have everything you need, from a child’s tricycle to family bikes to high performance bikes. There’s something for everyone.”

The cycling community in Manayunk is what drew Bufo to opening a store in Manayunk. He previously only had one location in Ardmore, PA. Since opening in Manayunk, Human Zoom has been able to provide the community an inclusive experience at the store to meet every cyclist’s needs including repairs, training equipment, gear, clinics and much more.

Not only does Human Zoom sell all the products, they have the staff to help you pick what’s best for you. Most, if not all, of the employees come into the store with some cycling experience or knowledge and go through training in order to best suit the customer’s needs. Employees gain experience through Trek University and mechanical and sales training when they are hired. The friendly staff is willing to answer any questions and give you the best riding experience possible.

Beyond the store location and knowledgeable staff, Human Zoom engages in community activities and offers opportunities for local cyclists to take advantage of. For example, Human Zoom is a co-sponsor of the Peanut Butter and Company cycling team. They also sponsor the Saint Joseph’s University team in a partnership where the team helps them out with leading rides from the store for the community and participating in charity events.

Human Zoom offers weekly rides from their Manayunk and Ardmore locations for cyclists of all levels to participate in. The rides are led by the store staff and other cycling volunteers and are at no cost. Each ride is catered to fit the needs of the area and the cyclists, whether it be trail or road rides depending on the group and the day. “Not only do you get to go on a ride, they teach you how to ride through the woods with different techniques, they teach you how to ride in a group. Most people don’t have that experience”, Bufo says.

With summer’s arrival, Human Zoom is preparing for a busy bike rental season. Bikes can be rented for only $8 an hour, or a discounted 24 hour price. Customers are welcome to rent the bike that fits their needs whether it be a road bike, mountain bike, or hybrid. Bufo even offers a rental toward a new bike deal where if a customer rents a bike, then decided they want to buy, he will take the rental price off of the actual price of the new bike. And with a new bike, they also offer a discounted Human Zoom kit containing a Human Zoom jersey and shorts.

After 14 years at this location, when asked why Bufo chose to open a store in Manayunk and stay here for so long, his response was, “I just think it’s fun to be here. The people are great. They want to ride and have fun doing it, so it’s fun meeting all the new people.”

To find out more about Human Zoom and see their products, schedule of events, and other services, visit www.humanzoom.com.