If you're looking for friendly, fast and efficient bike service, then avoid Cycleways as all costs.

Six months ago I spent a pretty penny in Cycleways on a brand spanking new bike . This morning, on my way in to work, I got a puncture and wheeled my rothar for 20 minutes till I reached Parnell St. I arrived at 9am but the store didn't open 'till 9.30am. Having waited 30 mins and first to arrive in the store, no acknowledgment was received from anyone of the 4 members of staff.

Having enquired what I needed to do to get my bike looked at, I was informed that I needed to carry my bike downstairs (20 steps) to the basement. No assistance offered. 5 minutes later, a member of staff shows up and tells me that I need to make an appointment to get my puncture repaired. Next available slot, I ask - 6 days time!

At this stage, I'm 45 minutes late for work with a pressing meeting, so I opt to purchase a tube upstairs and repair the bike myself. I ask if they could lend me tire irons and a pump and with much chagrin, they agree under strict condition that I repair outside of the premises on a cold January morning. What fine, upstanding folk the Cycleways staff are...NOT.

As I say, avoid if at all possible.