Case Study
Golden Velo
Location: Golden, Colorado
Industry: Vintage Bicycle Restoration & Retail
Website: goldenvelo.com
When Precision Is the Focus
At Golden Velo, precision isn’t just a talking point. It’s the job.
In the world of vintage bicycles, precision isn’t optional, it’s everything. At Golden Velo, a globally respected, vintage-focused bicycle shop based in Golden, Colorado, every component tells a story. Founder and owner Seth has built his business around preserving those stories through meticulous restoration, deep technical knowledge, and an uncompromising standard of quality.
To meet those superior standards, Seth believes in investing not just in the right tools, but the best tools. He works with collaborative partners in the industry to achieve his client-focused vision.
“If you’re a serious shop, you buy serious equipment. You buy the best tools you can afford—and you give your mechanics what they need to do their best work” stated Seth.
"If my business demands it down the road, I won’t buy anything else. I just wouldn’t accept a different experience.”
A Shop Built on Trust, Craft, and Global Demand
Golden Velo is not a typical bike shop. Seth sold his previous bike shop, Big Ring Cycles, to Trek in 2021. Golden Velo focuses primarily on vintage bicycles by restoring, preserving, and sourcing rare parts, for collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
The shop’s reputation has grown rapidly. Customers travel from across the world, to visit the shop and consult its reference library.
With the capability of shipping parts and bikes around the globe, Golden Velo has built a deep commitment to quality restoration. Delivering that level of service requires tools that match the craftsmanship, and processes that protect both the parts and the people working on them.
From Exposure to Confidence: A Proven Solution
Seth’s first experience with Renegade Parts Washers dates back to his time as the owner of Big Ring Cycles. Introduced through Trek, he purchased a Renegade TMB 5500 in 2018. The impact was immediate, quickly proving its value in the shop.
“It was a Godsend. The amount of revenue it created for drivetrain cleans—while mechanics could be doing something else—was spectacular.”
That machine continued delivering value long after Seth sold Big Ring Cycles. The new owner of the TMB 5500 still uses it today and is thrilled with its dependability.
When Seth launched Golden Velo, ordering a Renegade washer wasn’t a question of if, but which model. He selected the Renegade TMB 4100 to support the detailed, hands-on work required for vintage components.
Built for Careful Work
Vintage bicycle parts demand care, precision, and control. Unlike modern, high-volume service work, Golden Velo’s restorations often involve delicate components that require manual brushing, pressure control, and careful handling.
The Renegade TMB 4100 delivers on all fronts.
“There’s no comparison between a part coming out of a parts washer and cleaning it on the bench with WD-40 or isopropyl alcohol. You never get it as clean.”
Key benefits for Golden Velo include:
- Adjustable pressure control for delicate components
- Heated, detergent-based cleaning (no solvents)
- Compatibility with hand tools and brushes for precision work
- Superior filtration compared to bench-top units
“We like the fact that it uses detergent, not solvent. That’s a big deal for us.” Golden Velo uses Renegade Parts Wash as a detergent while cleaning their parts.
The result: consistently cleaner parts, less risk of damage, and a finish that meets the collector’s expectations.
Efficiency That Drives Revenue and Loyalty
Beyond cleanliness, the Renegade TMB 4100 has transformed how Golden Velo operates day to day.
The washer is pre-heated on a timer before staff arrive each morning, allowing parts to soak while mechanics focus on other tasks. This workflow efficiency enables Golden Velo to offer drivetrain cleaning as a premium service—one that has become a significant and reliable revenue stream.
“We generate a ton of revenue now on drivetrain cleans. Chains, freewheels, cranksets—the really dirty stuff comes out looking brand new.”
That service has become a cornerstone of the business.
“Almost everyone has it done—old bike or new. And it creates loyalty because it does such a great job.”
Seth sees the value in repeat customers, premium service offerings, and the ability to deliver impressive results.
“We charge $65 for a drivetrain clean and do between 8 to 10 a month. The parts washer paid for itself very quickly” and within months.
“The way you guys deal with us and partner with us is absolutely a competitive differentiator.”
Partnering Beyond the Purchase
From early setup questions to ongoing support, Renegade’s service, particularly from Sean McFerren, has played a critical role.
“Sean has kept me off the ledge more times than I can count. He’s calm, collaborative, and helps with everything.”
That partnership extends beyond customer support into continuous improvement. When Seth encountered a cracked sight window tied to the machine’s low-water alarm, Renegade responded quickly—and implemented an engineering update as a result.
“That’s a cool thing. You’re future proofing our investment.”
Built to Last and Grow With the Business
Golden Velo’s Renegade parts washer isn’t just a piece of equipment; it’s a foundational tool that helps define the shop’s reputation for excellence.
Mechanics who have worked in other shops immediately recognize the difference.
“They’re astonished at how fast and how well it works. It’s on a completely different level.”
For Seth, the conclusion is clear.
“If my business demands it down the road, I won’t buy anything else. I just wouldn’t accept a different experience.”
By pairing world-class tools with a true partnership mindset, Renegade has helped Golden Velo deliver cleaner parts, stronger customer relationships, and a standard of quality that keeps collectors coming back…no matter where in the world they’re from.
