We had the good fortune of connecting with Brady Schlichting and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Brady, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I started Evoke Outdoors because I saw a need for a more modern bike shop in Vail. My goal was to create a top-of-the-line experience for both locals and visitors. At Evoke, we offer a trusted bike “concierge” service to assist with bike purchases, building bikes bought online, bike servicing, and bike rentals for exploring the area. I noticed a lack of good service and quality gear in the market, so I was determined to create something new and exceptional. Along the way, I delved into the world of E-Bikes and became specialized in tuning and assisting people with buying and building E-Bikes. Our current fleet is also geared towards catering to large groups seeking to experience the best views in Vail by bike.
We expanded to 102 Main Street in Minturn in 2023 giving us a place where people can come in and work directly with our experts and watch bike mechanics work on bikes. It’s a really cool experience where everyone is welcome!
At Evoke Outdoors, we believe in the importance of loving your equipment and providing exceptional knowledge to all our guests. Whether it’s families, older individuals, or any type of biker, we are dedicated to offering top-notch service and expertise. We understand that each rider has unique needs and preferences, and we take pride in sharing our deep knowledge to ensure that every guest receives the perfect equipment and guidance for an unforgettable biking experience in Vail.
With nearly 20 years in the bike industry, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to Evoke Outdoors. I have collaborated with the best brands in the industry, always prioritizing safety and quality when recommending bikes to clients. I love sharing my favorite trails and ideas with visitors. I want them to truly enjoy the best of Vail’s biking experiences.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Running a seasonal business comes with its unique set of challenges. Each summer, the process of ramping up operations demands time and effort. As a business owner, allocating resources efficiently is an ongoing challenge. By focusing on the core aspects of a seamless and exceptional customer experience, we have been able to navigate the seasonal nature of our business. Our commitment to high-quality gear has not only been crucial in overcoming the seasonal hurdles but has also contributed significantly to our success and helped us thrive in the competitive landscape of the outdoor recreation industry.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Minturn to East Vail Bike Ride: Experience the best of Vail by taking a bike ride from Minturn to East Vail and back. This picturesque route offers the perfect day trip, allowing you to stop for lunch in Vail, visit the stunning waterfalls in East Vail, and conclude your day in Minturn, where you can explore the local winery or indulge in our local taco restaurant. With E-bikes from Evoke Outdoors, you can effortlessly navigate the fantastic paths that connect Vail to the charming mountain town of Minturn.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Evoke Outdoors has experienced significant growth through local partnerships with individuals and organizations who value exceptional services from a trusted source. These partnerships extend to local towns, hotel concierges, businesses, and property managers who continue to recommend Evoke. Their ongoing endorsements serve as a testament to our commitment to providing outstanding experiences and top-tier services in Vail’s biking scene.
Website: www.evokeout.com
Instagram: evoke_Vail