Today we’d like to introduce you to Justin And Sarah Bolinger.
Hi Justin and Sarah, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Justin has lived in Albert Lea his whole life. He enjoys the small town feel and how the community rallies around each other in support. Justin has always had a passion for BMX racing and BMX bikes. He started racing as a kid around the age of 4. He raced for a few years and then started racing again in his teens when he could drive. Spent some time traveling with friends through Minnesota racing. His first son, Gavin, was born when he was 25. His son also started racing around the age of 4. This really motivated Justin to get more involved. His nephew Ryleigh got into racing also and they started traveling even more. Soon after, Justin started getting into mountain biking and road biking. When Justin was racing, he would go to Martins Cycling and Fitness to purchase his bikes, equipment, and racing gear. Scott Martin, the owner at the time, did Justin’s repairs and was always supportive of his racing. Justin got into hockey and his son Gavin played as well. Scott sold bicycles in the summer months and skates and hockey equipment in the winter.
In 2005, Justin applied to work for Scott at the bike shop. Justin worked for Scott for 15 years. Justin learned how to do bike repairs and maintenance. Scott taught Justin the skill of selling bikes, hockey gear, and accessories to customers. Justin learned how to sharpen skates, build bikes, manage the store, and most important customer service!
Around 2020, Justin pursued other career opportunities but ultimately his passion and dream was always to circle back to the bike shop. He always had it in the back of his mind that one day he would love to own Martins if Scott ever chose to retire.
Fast forward to 2025. Justin and Scott were talking at the shop one day and Justin asked Scott if he was ever going to retire. The conversation took off and they started talking numbers and getting more intentional with the idea. Scott was very encouraging and supportive of the takeover. March of 2026, the purchase was final and Justin was officially the new owner of Martins Cycling and Fitness.
The community has been so encouraging and Justin is excited to make a lasting impact on the Albert Lea community and surrounding areas.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The challenge of purchasing the bicycle shop obviously had a lot do with finances and making sure everything was in order that way. Justin’s family stood beside him and, as a team, were able to make things work. We reached out to get some local grants and loans but ultimately, nothing panned out with that. We went to a local bank to see what the loan requirements and expectations would be. With enough collateral, and Scott’s support, the finances were secure and the purchase was final on March 2, 2026.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
A small, family owned, local bicycle and equipment store. Martins sells mountain bikes, e-bikes, road bikes, and BMX bikes. We sell accessories like water bottlef cages, water bottles, saddles, computers, clothing, and biking shoes. Other inventory includes hockey equipment, roller blades, pickleball paddles and balls, disc golf discs and bags, and Boy Scout gear. It’s a full service bike shop doing everything from basic tune-ups to full brake installation and more. They do skate rentals as well as sharpening.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
The risk of buying a small business is always high. You’re relying on the community to come in and support as well as spread the word. There is no business without the customers. Our family has a lot riding on the success of this business and we are committed to being the best we can to support our community. Justin’s passion drives him to continue learning new things, asking the right questions, and getting uncomfortable trying new ways of doing things.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.martinscyclingandfitness.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/martinscycling
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/martinscyclingandfitness
