Andres Estevez shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Andres, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What battle are you avoiding?
The temptation to become “just another bike store.” It’s easy to chase volume or popularity, but that’s not who we are. We’re committed to staying independent, staying selective, and focusing on quality over quantity — even when it’s harder.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Andres Estevez, founder of Collareta Cycling in Plantation, Florida, and a U.S. Navy Veteran. I started this shop because I wanted to bring honesty, craftsmanship, and real expertise back to the cycling experience.
We’re not part of any corporate chain or bike brand — we’re independent, which means everything in our store is handpicked based on quality and performance, not marketing trends. That freedom allows us to truly focus on our customers — on what they need, not what someone else wants us to sell.
At Collareta Cycling, we don’t try to be everything to everyone. We’re a specialty shop for people who love to ride — whether you’re a serious athlete, weekend explorer, or just someone who enjoys being outdoors. Our goal is to make sure you get the right product, the right fit, and the right advice every time you walk through the door.
In a world where online shopping and mass-market stores can make cycling feel impersonal, we stand for personal connection, precision, and pride in what we do.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
Serving in the U.S. Navy taught me the value of doing things right — even when no one is watching. It showed me that pride comes from attention to detail and service to others.
When I transitioned into civilian life, I realized how much that mindset shaped me. It’s why Collareta Cycling exists. I wanted to build a place that treats cycling with that same sense of care and purpose — where customers are treated like individuals, not transactions.
That background gave me an appreciation for craftsmanship and accountability — two things I think are missing in a lot of retail experiences today.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
Leaving the military was a big change. I went from a world built around mission and structure to one where I had to build my own sense of purpose. Starting Collareta Cycling gave me that — it became my new way to serve.
Of course, running an independent shop isn’t easy, especially in a time when so much of retail is about speed and scale. But we’ve learned to stay true to what we believe: do things with integrity, not shortcuts.
Every challenge — from supply issues to changing consumer habits — has reminded me that people still value quality, honesty, and human connection. That’s what keeps us going.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies in the cycling industry is that “more” always means “better.” More dealers, more models, more promotions — but that approach often hurts the rider most.
Too many brands chase growth by flooding the market and pushing volume onto shops, rather than focusing on what actually serves the customer. It’s why so many people end up buying the wrong bike, the wrong size, or products that don’t really fit their needs.
At Collareta Cycling, we take the opposite approach. We believe “better” means thoughtful, honest, and tailored. Instead of selling everything, we focus on carrying what we can truly stand behind — products that perform, last, and deliver real value to riders.
In the end, cycling isn’t about chasing trends or discounts; it’s about trust, craftsmanship, and enjoyment. That’s the truth we try to live by every day.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I don’t really believe anyone is born to do something — I think we build who we become through choices, experiences, and the people we serve along the way.
For me, Collareta Cycling wasn’t fate; it was a decision to live by my values. After leaving the Navy, I wanted to create something rooted in integrity, precision, and purpose — values that have guided me all my life.
Running this shop isn’t about following a path someone else set — it’s about choosing independence every day. Choosing to do things the right way, even when it’s harder. Choosing to focus on quality, on people, and on long-term relationships instead of trends or volume.
So no, I don’t think I was “born” to do this — but I’m proud that I chose to. Because it reflects who I am and what I stand for: service, honesty, and doing good work that actually means something to people.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.collaretacycling.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collaretacycling
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/CollaretaBikes
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/collaretacycling
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/Collaretacyclingstore
- Other: Learn more or connect with us at Collareta Cycling — your independent bike shop in Plantation, Florida.
