Seattle, WA — Cascade Bicycle Studio (CBS), a Seattle-based custom bicycle studio built on a fit-first, expert-led, and highly consultative approach focused on the person, announced that it has acquired Ambedo, a hybrid custom bicycle consultancy formerly operated by industry veterans Chris Reed and Aaron Allen.
This acquisition represents the first step in Cascade Bicycle Studio’s broader expansion strategy, at a time when much of the bike retail industry is contracting. Rather than pursuing growth through inventory or volume, CBS is investing in fit-first service, consultation, and craftsmanship — areas where demand continues to grow.
Reed and Allen previously worked together at Studio Velo in Mill Valley, a pioneering fit-first studio and one of only six nationwide nominees for the 2016 Interbike Innovation Award for Best Road/Triathlon Bike Shop. That shared background strongly aligns with Cascade Bicycle Studio’s own philosphy: start with the person, understand how they move and ride, and let the bike follow.
“Cascade Bicycle Studio has built a reputation for thoughtful growth, best-in-class retail, and a strong, community-first approach, and the acquisition of Ambedo is a natural extension of that strategy,” said Ernesto Calderin, Founder and Principal of Prologue, LLC.
“Having worked with Chris Reed and Aaron Allen for more than 15 years, this is a clear no-brainer. They are both experts in our industry. This aligned move strengthens Cascade’s platform, deepens community connections, and positions the business well for continued, sustainable growth.
”This partnership establishes a foundation for Cascade Bicycle Studio’s long-term vision: to build one of the few premium bicycle studios in the U.S. with multiple locations. CBS believes the future of high-end bike retail lies in fit-first, consultative studios focused on the person, particularly as inventory-driven retail continues to struggle.
About Chris & Aaron
Chris Reed brings more than 20 years of experience across specialty retail, business development, and entrepreneurship. He was a partner at Bike RX, which later evolved into Studio Velo in Mill Valley, where he led sales, vendor relations, and systems-driven growth. His broader experience spans hospitality ventures, cycling events, international tours, and business consulting, guided by a philosophy of people first, process always.
Aaron Allen brings decades of experience across high-end retail, consulting, advocacy, and nonprofit leadership. His career includes leadership roles at City Cycle in San Francisco, serving as General Manager at Studio Velo, founding Bespoke Cycles, and co-founding Ambedo. Aaron is also deeply involved in cycling heritage and education and continues to volunteer with the Marin Museum of Bicycling and Cycling Hall of Fame, contributing to its mission of preserving and advancing cycling culture.
About Cascade Bicycle Studio
For more than 20 years, Cascade Bicycle Studio has been a fit-first custom bicycle studio built around expert-led consultation and long-term rider relationships. CBS works with leading premium brands to deliver highly personalized cycling solutions and is building a multi-location future grounded in consistency, expertise, and long-term rider relationships.
