Started in my apartment. Still keeping it that simple.

I started The Goat Bike Shop with one idea: run it the way I'd want a bike shop to treat me. No fluff, no upselling. Quality secondhand bikes are my biggest thing, every one checked and serviced before it's listed. I sell new bikes too, and handle servicing for anyone who needs it.

Our story

From a student apartment to a garage workshop.

I started this while I was studying Engineering in Stellenbosch, selling bikes out of my apartment on the side. It didn't take long to see there was real demand for commuter bicycles around Stellenbosch. Students needed a way to get around, and the options nearby were limited.

The stock grew more varied from there, not just commuters but every type of bike. That first year, every bike I had was standing in my apartment. Eventually I found a garage, which meant I finally had space to service bikes properly too, not just sell them.

From there it grew into a proper shop with a physical storefront. After running it that way for a while, I made the call to move back to the garage model on purpose. Lower overheads meant more time and attention could go into the quality of every build and every service, instead of into rent.

That's still how I run things today: small, appointment-based, and focused on getting the bike right rather than running a big showroom.

Franco McLeod, founder of The Goat Bike Shop, working on a bike

The team

One person, hands-on with every bike.

Franco McLeod, Founder

I started the shop out of a student apartment in Stellenbosch and have been building it out ever since. Sourcing bikes, running the workshop, handling everything day to day.

What we care about

Three things we won't compromise on.

Honest recommendations

I'll tell you when your bike just needs a service, not a replacement. And I'll tell you honestly when it's time to let it go.

Every bolt torqued right

No guessing, no eyeballing. Every build goes out to spec, checked twice before it leaves the stand.

Riders first

I ride the bikes and the trails I recommend. If I haven't ridden it, I won't sell it to you.