Bikes, guitars mix at store

Mark Sheldon, owner of Bicycle Time at Second and C Street in Cheney, stands before a glass case filled with bicycle accessories and strums a guitar.

Nearby is a half-size guitar that one could take camping. A wall is lined with S101 and Tanara guitars.

The combination of bicycles and musical equipment is unusual but harmonious for Sheldon and fills a need in Cheney.

Sheldon tells of a frantic mother whose son had forgotten the drumsticks for an impending concert. There wasn’t time to drive to Spokane for replacements.

Bicycle Time supplied the drumsticks, and the concert began on time.

He’s equally ready to provide just the right bicycle for a customer.

“Most people don’t want an extremely expensive bicycle,” he said. “They want one that is comfortable, dependable and is fun to ride.”

Sheldon shows the cutaway, now called the step-through, which used to be termed the woman’s bicycle. Parked beside it is the diamond shape, a traditional man’s bicycle, which some women now prefer.

A man of many talents, Sheldon plays an E flat soprano cornet in the Spokane British Brass Band. That’s in addition to the guitar, flute and recorder.

A didgeridoo, an Australian instrument as long as a bassoon, leans against a corner. Sheldon picks it up, takes a deep breath and demonstrates its resounding bass tone.

One must breathe in and out while keeping the tone constant, a feat that takes some practice.

Bicycle Time’s feline greeters add to the friendly atmosphere. The cats enjoy condos, whimsical walkways and pass-throughs.

A blue and white parakeet keeps them company.

Store hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays, 9 to 6 Wednesdays through Fridays, and 8 to 5 Saturdays. The store is closed Sundays and Mondays.

Sheldon expects to expand hours soon.

The phone number is 235-4575.