Kustom Kruizers: Renfrew’s extraordinary bike shop

Laura Young visits Kustom Kruizers, the Renfrew bike shop making a discernible difference to lives across the region

What was once a forgotten public toilet block in Robertson Park is now a beacon of community spirit, pedal power, and second chances. Kustom Kruizers, a quirky yet deeply impactful bike shop, is the brainchild of Dave Neill – a self-taught mechanic with a passion for people and a heart wired for service.

That project began in Dave’s garage, where he would fix up bikes and redistribute them to those who needed them. “I just saw a need and tried to meet it. It’s just a way to give back,” he says.

Thanks to generous funding from Renfrewshire Council, Dave was able to set up shop in the Renfrew premises. Today, Kustom Kruizers offer mechanical training, partnership projects with local schools, support groups and affordable refurbished bikes.

“We run six-week courses that teach practical mechanical skills,” Dave reveals “But it’s not just about fixing bikes. It’s about giving people the tools that improve their own lives, too.”

Kustom Kruizers, photo by Karen Honeyman

Participants leave with more than technical know-how. Many go on to employment, some even in the cycling industry. Others simply find a renewed sense of purpose and community.

“Seeing someone walk in quiet and unsure, then leave six weeks later standing tall – that’s the real payoff,” he adds.

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One of the most vital arms of Kustom Kruizers’ work is selling refurbished bikes at affordable prices – a lifeline for struggling families across Renfrewshire.

“The main aim is to sort families out with something solid, safe, and affordable.”

Every bike is carefully restored and sold at a fraction of the price of a new model. The project not only supports sustainability, but also establishes a sense of dignity for buyers.

Photo by Kat Sloan

Bikes for young people are a necessity as almost every primary school in Renfrewshire offers the Bikeability Scotland course, a national cycle training programme for school children that promotes road safety and fitness. Not all children in Renfrewshire, however, have the luxury of being able to afford brand new bicycles. 

“It’s not about handouts. It’s about helping people access what they need, without breaking the bank,” says Dave. “The bikes go to good homes. That’s what matters.”

In a corner of the workshop sits a modest coffee bar that hits harder than the best Italian roast.

“Serving coffee here might not sound like much, but it builds skills. You’ve got customer service, communication, teamwork,” Dave points out. “Plus, people relax when they’ve got a brew in hand.”

Kustom Kruizers, photo by David Brett Warren

The shop’s Monday Men’s Group is a perfect example. Men come together to work on bikes, but often find themselves talking about far more.

“I’m no therapist,” he chuckles, “but I’ve seen how powerful it is when guys get together and just talk. Sometimes fixing a chain leads to a bigger conversation.” 

Plans are already underway to expand this kind of support, including group rides using electric bikes to encourage wellbeing and connection. A vital form of support for male mental health – which is rarely discussed.

Dave busy in the workshop, photo by Karen Honeyman

Kustom Kruizers also do their part to reduce waste. Thousands of bikes that would otherwise end up in landfill have been brought back to life. Those that can’t be saved become teaching tools or are stripped for parts; some of which are shipped to Africa for community bike projects. “Nothing’s wasted,” Dave says. “Every part has a purpose.”

Vibrant murals adorn the outside of the shop, one depicting Dave’s daughter fixing a BMX. Created by local artists Bmore Sketchy and kv_illustrates, the artwork celebrates the shop’s story and its deep community roots.

Dave fixing a bike, photo by Kat Sloan

Even the name, Kustom Kruizers, has a personal touch. “Coffee is spelled koffie in Afrikaans,” Dave explains. “It’s just a mix of my South African heritage and a bit of originality in our signage.”

“We’re always looking for new partnerships – more schools, more young people, more families, more businesses getting involved,” he says. “I want this place to keep thriving. To keep giving back.”

From a previously underutilised stretch of Robertson Park, Kustom Kruizers has become something extraordinary: a well-oiled chain that helps drive the community of Renfrewshire forward through hands-on learning, support, and enjoyment. 

“It’s not just about riding bikes,” Dave says with a smile. “It’s about enjoying the journey, and helping others get back on the road.”

Kustom Kruizers, 19 Inchinnan Road, Renfrew PA4 8NF, 07949 199154, follow on Facebook and Instagram.