Bangtail History
From A Little House to Southwest Montana’s Premiere Bike Shop
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From humble beginnings in a small house near the corner of 7th and Main St in 1979, Bangtail Bikes has become Southwest Montana’s premiere bicycle shop. Now located in the heart of downtown Bozeman, we have a bit more space, a lot better selection, and employees quirkier than ever ready to help you find the bike of your dreams. Whether a commuter, recreational rider, or racer, we have the gear to make your cycling experience better than ever.
With over 150 years of combined experience, you won’t find a more knowledgeable staff. As the saying goes, “Nobody cares how much you know, until they know how much you care.” We take that to heart. Our staff is truly what makes the difference. Stop in and see.
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Origin of the Name “Bangtail”
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We are often asked where we came up with the name Bangtail. Traditionally, a bangtail was a race horse whose tail had been “banged” or cut short. It is also the name of a small mountain range directly east of the Bridger Range, derived from a pair of brothers who pastured ponies in the area. Legend says that one of the brothers “banged” the tails of his stock so he could tell the difference between his and his brother’s horses.
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When we had the opportunity to move into our current space, we were stoked not only for the location, but for the horse that resides on the front of our building. “Jubalee” has been a landmark on Bozeman’s Main Street for long enough that he is included in the buildings “Register of Historic Places.” Because of this, Jubalee will remain as long as the building stands. It seemed like a match made in heaven – a bikes shop with the name Bangtail in a building with a life size rotating horse on the front! Needless to say our move to Main Street felt like destiny!
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Nothing but The Best
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We are proud to carry some of the best bicycles in the country; Trek and Specialized. Stop in and test ride one today!