Discover Bikes has a combined experience of over a century in cycling, and in this time we hope we’ve learnt a thing or two about bikes!! Before we started Discover Bikes formerly known as Performance Cycles, we were always frustrated by our local bikes shops only trying to sell us a bike they had on the shelf – and not truly listening to what we wanted!!
We try and do things a little differently – in all cases our customer is put first (it’s been said a thousand times before, but it really is a case of the customer is king), and your needs will always be carefully considered. We’ll never sell you “what we’ve got” we’d rather listen to what you need and advise you accordingly, and if that means building a bike specifically for you – or going out and finding new a supplier just to get that one part that you need, then that is undoubtedly the best way to do it. At least that way you know you’ll get the right size frame, the best level of kit for your money and the correct range of gears for the type of riding you’re planning on doing!! Why have a bike with high ‘race’ gearing, when actually you’ll be tackling the climbs of the Alp’s in your latest Sportive challenge.
For us, it really is about the bike – or at least riding the bike!! And that’s why we treat everyone the same, whether you’re a seasoned rider or a complete newcomer to the sport – you’ll always be made to feel welcome, and the kettle will be on!! We're not pretentious. Your cycling ability is the least interesting thing about your riding. We don't care how fast you are or how far you can ride. We just care that you actually ride!
Performance Cycles in owned and run by Andy Kirk – a lifelong cyclist, with a huge passion for the sport.
Andy Kirk- Owner :
Andy started racing at the age of 14 for his local club the Corinium CC. In 1996 he rode the regional heats of the GHS and qualified for the National finals, along with riding the Junior National 10 and the Duo Normand in France (a race won that year by olympic gold medalist Chris Boardman). Currently trying to re-find some sort of ‘form’ and get back into regular riding – there’s a rumour that 2025 will see him pin a number on and “race” again!! Or at the very least continue to try and keep up with his 13 year old daughter on the weekly Latton TT.
Mark Sealey - Manager :
Started working in the industry over 25 years ago at Mitchell Cycles. Then spent 15 years with Hargroves Cycles in Swindon as the store manager. One of the most experienced,competent and well respected people in the industry. Mark is our E-bike specialist being trained in Bosch, Shimano, Mahle and Fazua he's the go to guy with your E-bike problems. If he can't mend it no one can. Also a dab hand at anything difficult to diagnose. Mark is also Campagnolo pro trained. You couldn't be in better hands.
Steve Black - Mechanic :
Steve is our star resident mechanic. He was runner up in the Shimano Service centre championship. Anything Di2 related he's your man. You'll find Steve on his Orbea Orca tearing up the roads around Wiltshire. He best describes his Orca as ''Awesome'' . Steve is a fantastic wheel builder and just an all round fantastic mechanic. He's the quietest member of the team but he loves some good banter.
Mike Shannon:
About the most experienced and knowledgeable staff member you'll ever meet. Starting his career at Mitchell Cycles in Swindon and originally training Mark, Mike took a break from the industry for a while. He then came back to join us at Hargroves Cycles in Swindon and then on to join us at Discover Bikes. Mike brings the average age up for us here but with that brings a wealth of experience.
If you're looking for a new bike, Mike will get you on the right bike for the job without any bike snobbery. One of the nicest helpful staff you will ever meet.