Founded by a bike messenger in San Francisco, bag manufacturer Timbuk2 has opened its first store in Chicago. Known for its classic nylon and canvas messanger bags, the store carries more than 100 styles of bags, backpacks and accessories with a hearty lifetime warranty.
At the new location on Damen near North, you can either get an off-the-rack bag or use an interactive custom-design station to create your own with 60-plus fabric options. That starts at $79.
Along with peddling product, Timbuk2 has created a little rest stop for bikers in its 2,100 square foot space. The shop's indoor "parklet" is a spot where cyclists can sit and charge their phones, use complimentary bike tools and tire pumps, and get a swig of water. In June, the store plans to launch a bike share program.
Timbuk2 (1623 N. Damen Ave.; 773-661-4433, timbuk2.com) is open Monday – Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.