Ari brings over three decades of deep mechanical experience and gravel-road grit to 2 Bici Bike Shop. As the longtime president of the Slender Fungus Cycling Association and a true rider-mechanic, Ari is as comfortable wrenching on a seized seatpost as he is grinding through a 100-mile gravel ride.

He’s built over 1,000 wheels by hand, restored countless vintage frames, and logged thousands of miles across Illinois and beyond. His workshop skills are rooted in tradition—favoring precision, patience, and practical knowledge gained from real-world riding.

On Instagram (@bikerustcycles), you’ll find Ari documenting his day-to-day with refreshing honesty: fixing old Townies, pulling rusted parts, chasing baby turtles along the canal trail, and reflecting on the history and future of gravel cycling. Whether he’s removing a frozen bolt or talking shop with customers, Ari brings authenticity and care to every job.

At 2 Bici, Ari leads our service area with a deep respect for the bike and the rider. If you’ve got a story behind your ride—or want to build one from scratch—he’s the mechanic to make it happen.