Pedal On

Lakeside Bicycle in Wolcottville Keeps Customers’ Wheels in Motion

Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger
Photography Provided

Like an intricately woven tapestry, northern Indiana features rolling ribbons of farmland intertwined with rural-influenced cityscapes. Oftentimes cars can seemingly become a bit of a novelty, and the noise gives way to the peaceful hum of bicycles and buggies meandering along gravel-strewn lanes.

Situated on one of those countryside thoroughfares, visitors can find Lakeside Bicycle, a longtime family enterprise of Maynard and Miriam Miller. Nestled in a peaceful settlement near Wolcottville, the Millers have been immersed in the business of bicycle sales and repair for more than 10 years.

In the heart of a region where non-motorized travel is common, Maynard Miller’s services are greatly appreciated. Miller’s expertise is all the more remarkable when he admits that he had never even owned a bicycle himself until after he was married. Now, as a husband and father of four sons, he is fully capable to tap into a finely honed set of skills that he was not originally aware of.

Lakeside Bicycle is designed as a sales and service outlet for any kind of bicycle and any brand, ranging from the traditional, two-wheeled styles to tandems and tricycles, for youngsters and adults. Customers can also bring in pre-owned bicycles as trade-ins for newer models. More recently the shop began handling repairs on battery-powered electric bikes, although Miller works on those far less frequently.

The workshop and retail spaces are exceptionally organized and tidy, and there is a wealth of accessories to browse and buy. From water bottles to lights to safety apparel, there are plenty of options to add a touch of personal flair to the bikes. There are also small glimpses of whimsy tucked away in the inventory, like the pizza cutters that resemble historic, 19th-century riding machines.

Upon crossing the threshold into the quaint storefront, it is instantly apparent that the Miller family is very invested in the business. No fewer than four members of the household are there to greet guests. Maynard Miller, reflecting on the evolution of Lakeside Bicycle, explains that the family was initially intent to embark on a woodworking business. However, one of the children was experiencing allergy issues, which forced the Millers to consider other options. An opportunity arose for them to purchase the current building in which the business is housed, and the wheels were literally set in motion.

“We’ve worked hard to get it to where I can just work at home to serve you better,” Miller says. “This is a family operation. My wife, Miriam, does all the book work, and the boys help a lot during the busy season. They put together a lot of new bikes, but I still do the fine tuning.”

The Millers are also happy to be situated in an ideal location, where they can be of assistance to clients in both Indiana and Michigan. They are delighted to engage in conversation with residents and travelers alike, and they have been busily preparing for the warmer seasons, which will bring an upswing of folks engaging in bicycle riding. “We enjoy living close to the lakes and we meet a lot of friendly people,” Miller says.

Another perk of visiting Lakeside Bicycle? “Brenda’s Ice Cream is just down the road from us,” Miller adds.

For those in the market for a ride upgrade, Lakeside Bicycle will offer a 10% discount on the purchase of a new bike through the month of April, by mentioning the advertisement in The Lakes.

Maynard shares a bit of sage advice that relates to his line of work as well as the passage of time itself.

“Life is like riding a bicycle,” he says. “To keep your balance, you must start pedaling.”

Lakeside Bicycle is located at 820 West 700 South in Wolcottville. To set up a consultation, or to simply inquire about the shop, call 260-854-9456, ext. 1.