Northtowne Cycling + Fitness bike shop, which celebrated its 100th anniversary this year, has been sold to Derek Meier of Cedar Rapids.
Meier officially acquired the business Oct. 1 from longtime owners Derek and Jodi Stepanek, who had been searching for a buyer since February.
Founded in 1925 by Willard Morgan as Morgan Brothers Bicycles and Motorcycles in downtown Cedar Rapids, the business originally sold bicycles along with Harley-Davidson and Indian motorcycles. Morgan’s son, Don Morgan, later became the second-generation owner before passing the business to his nephew, Bill Stepanek, in the late 1960s. Bill’s brother, Don Stepanek, subsequently joined the company.
In the 1970s, the shop moved to Cedar Rapids’ northeast side and became a Schwinn concept store operating as Northtowne Schwinn Cyclery. Bill and Don Stepanek expanded the business by introducing fitness equipment through a partnership with Universal Gym Equipment.
The shop relocated to its current location at 1150 Blairs Ferry Road NE in 1980 and underwent a major remodel in 2000. Derek Stepanek, Bill’s son, has led the business since 2010.
“This decision was about more than acquiring a strong business; Northtowne’s reputation, loyal customer base, and operational excellence speak for themselves,” Mr. Meier said in a release. “What truly inspired me was the mission: helping people live happier and healthier lives through cycling and fitness.”
Northtowne has been Iowa’s e-bike category leader for more than a decade, with the category expected to drive double-digit industry growth over the next six years.
“Derek, Jodi, and the entire Stepanek family’s leadership, vision, and integrity have shaped Northtowne into a trusted and welcoming space for riders of all kinds,” Meier said.
Derek Stepanek said the family wanted to ensure the business continues to thrive under new ownership.
“I’m so proud of what our family has built, and I love this community and the relationships we’ve formed,” Derek Stepanek said. “As we look toward the future, we want to ensure that Northtowne continues to thrive.”
Mr. Meier said he plans to preserve the business’s character while evolving with community needs.
“Cedar Rapids has always embraced cycling, not just as a sport, but as a way of life,” he said. “My goal is to preserve everything that makes Northtowne special while continuing to evolve with the needs of our community.”
A community open house is planned for early November at the Northtowne Cycling + Fitness store.
