Founded in 2009 by Alexander Cook, Manchester’s Dead Rats Cycles started in a humble home workshop in Chorlton as the antidote to flashy bike retailers. Alex earned a loyal following for his expertise, qualified as a Cytech 4* Master Technician, won a Green Award from Action for Sustainable Living and gained Retrobike Gold Trader status.
In 2018, Alex became a member of the Association of Cycle Traders and moved to a retail space on Nicolas Road in Chorlton, establishing Dead Rats Cycles as Manchester’s custom and vintage specialist. Offering expert servicing and unique bike builds, it earned recognition as one of the region’s top five bike shops.
Surging rent forced Alex to reluctantly close his shop in 2023 after five successful years. Fortunately, his strong reputation and loyal customer base quickly earned him mechanic job offers at both Bicycle Doctor in Rusholme and The Charity Bike Shop in Chorlton, and a chance to develop his online vintage bike parts business.
