Re: I NEED OPINIONS ON OPENING A NEW BIKE SHOP:
Never been to HAI, but have always heard great things of them. They look out for their fellow riders from what I hear. It's a good idea, but it won't be cheap! Also figure on a lot of disposable funds for a while!
As for location...I still say the old HQ by the Town Center in VA Beach!! You could still have indoor stunting, while sales/ service are going on in the front! You might remember that we had talked about this a while back. You might want to talk to the guys at the indoor kart track in P-Town to see how they ventilated and make it legal!
The lounge woudn't be too bad an idea...cold drinks, TV's, seating, snackem foods like fries, nuggets, mozza sticks, etc...and of course a wheelie machine! I think I still have the e-mail on what I need to do to get one (out of my price range though).
I have thought about all that kind of stuff for a while, and thought the old HQ would be ideal for a bike shop/ stunt spot/ snack bar....I just don't have the capital to do it! And I am sure the HQ is expensive, since all that land is around there...but it's an idea.
You know I will help with what ever I can as well...only problem is my time is scarce...you should know that by how much I am out riding!!