Business Owner of the Month: Bend Electric Bikes

On Brooks Alley sits a sweet mom and pop shop that keeps rolling through the decades as Bend changes. This business continues to keep us geared up for what’s next and meets all our needs. Meet our Business Owners of the Month, Kathy and Sterling McCord. They own and run Bend Electric Bikes.  
 
They opened their business in 2008 in a 500 square foot space in the Box Factory before moving to Downtown Bend. “We love being part of Bend’s Downtown Community. It’s the OG of Bend,” Kathy said. “We love the synergy and uniqueness of all our awesome neighbors. It’s also fun to ride our bikes into work and to start group rides from our front door. ​Then there’s the Farmers Market, Community Tree lighting, Apres-Ski Bashes, First Fridays... we love all of it!” ​

​Kathy moved to Bend in 1993 after completing school at Appalachian State University in North Carolina. Her first job was at the Westside Bakery. She went on to co-found Bend Take-Out Express in 1995. After selling the business she used her counseling degree to work with dislocated workers at Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council.  
 
Sterling arrived in Bend a few years before his future wife, Kathy. His first job was grooming at Mt. Bachelor. He later became certified in Sustainable Building while working as a general contractor. When he discovered electric conversion bike kits, he was sold! He knew that electric bikes were the future.  
 
“We like to say we are part of the solution,” Kathy said. “We obviously can’t sell every ebike that is out (nor do we want to), but due to our reputation and experience we have access to ebikes that meet our high mark for being ahead of trends, known brands, built with premium components, safe and durable.”  
 
Be sure to follow Bend Electric Bikes for new items coming to the store. The McCord’s tease and say they have a lot happening. “Hint: more show room, more service, more cargo, more rides!”  
 
Kathy and Sterling have seen Bend through the decades. They have seen the city grow, change and adapt. “When we arrived the population was around 20,000 and now 30+ years later and with two nearly grown children, the small town has grown into a medium-sized city with real city elements. Now there’s traffic and cars everywhere. We also see more bike riding and walking,” Kathy said. “The one thing that hasn’t changed is how much those of us who live here, love it!”  
 
​Visit Bend Electric Bikes
Online 
869 NW Wall Street Suite #104
​Follow them on Instagram