Hiplok heads north to Norway for this month’s “Store of the Month”. We caught up with Bendik Been, the owner of the renowned Bergen-based store, Sykkelbutikken to chat extreme weather riding and the best cycling Norway-style…
You guys are pretty new; can you tell us how Sykkelbutikken got started?
We are actually an old shop with over 50 years of history. I have been involved with the shop since the mid-nineties but took over ownership last Year when we also moved premises.
The weather can be pretty extreme in Norway. Do you have any top tips for keeping on the bike during those hot & cold days?
For the hot days; don’t work in a bike shop, you will be too busy. For the cold days; take care of your bike in the tough climate and get some quality garments that will keep You comfy through those sleet storms. Winter rides can be some of the best on the trails around here so no need to park your bike in the winter.
Bergen is a super cool city, what’s the cycling community like there?
Indeed, it is! We have a good and diverse cycling commuting. There have always been a good DH/trail riding community here and always a good road riding community. Lately people have begun to cross over a bit more which we like. Lately we have also seen a rise in “urban” biking and cargo bikes which are cool to see as well.
How did you become aware of Hiplok?
We have been aware of Hiplok for some time and have followed the brand and was delighted to finally get hold of it in an easy way after the recent change in distribution here in Norway.
What is your favourite Hiplok and why?
The first idea is often the brightest, we still like the original and Gold best for their security and ease of use.
What are your favourite places to ride in Norway and why?
Geilo and Sogndal is high on my list of favourite places for trail riding, we also have plenty of spectacular climbs for road riding in Norway. The area around Sogn offers plenty of those as well.
We are also lucky to have spectacular mountains and small roads around Bergen.
