Kirk's Bike Shop

As part of Ball Bearings Magazine’s focus on Muncie, Indiana, I had the privilege of writing about one of the city’s enduring businesses: Kirk’s Bike Shop. Established in 1865 and still operating in downtown Muncie, Kirk’s Bike Shop has evolved over more than 150 years—merging with the B&B Campus Bike Shop, partnering with Trek Bikes, and adapting to the digital age—all while maintaining its deep roots in the community.

In this article, I explore the shop’s rich history, meet current owner Jason Allardt, and share fascinating insights into the broader history of cycling—from the iconic high-wheel “penny farthing” bicycles to the connection between cycling culture and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Writing this piece gave me a deeper appreciation for how local businesses can grow alongside their cities, blending tradition with innovation.