Phat Tire Bike Shop

Small Business finalists
Phat Tire Bike Shop
Bentonville

Owners: Tim Robinson & Chris Brosh
Year founded: 2007
Line of work: Bicycle sales, service and rentals
Website: phattirebikeshop.com

Fueled by their shared love of cycling, Tim Robinson and his business partner, Chris Brosh launched Phat Tire in Bentonville in 2007. Their business plan was straightforward—fill the gap in bike service and sales options catering to the vibrant cycling community of Northwest Arkansas. Thus, Phat Tire Bike Shop was born.

What began as a modest endeavor has blossomed into a multistate enterprise, with six thriving locations across Northwest Arkansas and an additional seven spread across Fort Smith, Tulsa (3) and Oklahoma City (3). The recent surge in Northwest Arkansas’ mountain biking profile has only served to amplify Phat Tire’s commitment to delivering unparalleled customer experiences.

At its core, Robinson said Phat Tire operates on a mission-driven philosophy, underscored by its dedication to crafting memorable cycling experiences and fostering a sense of community. Offering a comprehensive suite of services—from bicycle sales and rentals to technical support and apparel—Phat Tire has become synonymous with quality and reliability in cycling circles. The company consistently ranks among the top 25 dealers for Trek dealers. The company also offers bikes from Salsa, Transition, Catrikes and Yeti.

Brosh said the company’s exponential growth over the years is a testament to its commitment to excellence. From its humble beginnings with 30 bikes in Bentonville to a network of 13 stores and one dedicated rental shop spanning two states and three regions, Phat Tire’s journey is a testament to its resilience and vision.

Robinson added that the incredible growth in cycling infrastructure and support from governmental, nonprofit and private sector entities has helped the company grow.

“We consider the growth of the cycling retail sector in NWA to be positive as we are all working with the same mission of getting more people on bikes,” he said.

Beyond its business successes, Phat Tire prides itself on its active role in supporting cycling infrastructure, safety initiatives and community organizations. By sponsoring race teams, participating in cycling events and supporting various associations, Phat Tire’s actions cultivate a vibrant and inclusive cycling culture.

Robinson said the company’s unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction and community engagement is what sets Phat Tire apart from its competitors. From free clinics to technical support at local events, Phat Tire pedals the extra mile to ensure that every cyclist feels valued and supported.

Looking ahead, Phat Tire envisions further expansion while staying true to its core values of community, inclusivity and excellence. With a steadfast commitment to spreading the joy of cycling, Brosh said Phat Tire’s goal is to become the go-to destination for enthusiasts across Arkansas and Oklahoma.