What happens when a devastating brain injury and a failed business become the foundation for something extraordinary? Melissa Ross and her husband Aaron transformed personal setbacks into Link Cycling, a revolutionary bike shop in Laramie, Wyoming that's redefining what the cycling experience should feel like.
The journey began during COVID when Aaron, a respected bike fitter, pivoted to virtual consultations for clients nationwide. From this necessity-driven innovation, Link Cycling emerged as a welcoming haven that actively counters the intimidating atmosphere many associate with traditional bike shops. "Sometimes they have a vibe of they ignore you or they expect you to know everything about bikes," Melissa explains, describing the industry problem they're solving. Their approach? Creating a judgment-free zone where cyclists of all experience levels feel understood.
Behind the business philosophy lies Melissa's personal resilience story. A mountain biking accident left her with a traumatic brain injury that took over four years to recover from. She experienced everything from dizziness and memory loss to double vision and emotional regulation challenges. This profound journey, which she documented in her podcast "Get Your Head Back in the Game," infuses her approach to customer service with extraordinary empathy. The shop doesn't just sell bikes—they build relationships, offer skills coaching, and help customers experience the childlike joy that comes from cycling. As Melissa beautifully puts it, "When you get on a bike, you have this 'oh wow, I feel like myself as a kid again.'"
Whether you're an experienced cyclist or just beginning your journey, Link Cycling demonstrates how a specialty retail experience can feel supportive rather than intimidating. Visit their website at thelinkinnovations.com or stop by their shop at 263 North 3rd Street in Laramie to experience their unique approach firsthand, or call Link Cycling at 307-761-9260. Share your own cycling journey with us and let us know how inclusive spaces have changed your relationship with sports or hobbies!
