Business Details
19 Years
experience
Your Trusted Bicycle Workshop in Cambridge
Bicycle Ambulance was founded by cycling enthusiasts committed to prioritising quality repairs and component preservation over mass replacement. Established in 2007 in Cambridge, our workshop specialises in bicycle servicing, custom builds, and wheel construction, combining over three decades of technical expertise with a passion for sustainable cycling solutions. We operate from a converted ambulance turned mobile workshop, offering convenient on-site visits until the pandemic necessitated a shift to our permanent retail location. Our services cater to diverse cycling needs, from vintage restorations to high-performance custom builds, using premium components sourced globally. We pride ourselves on exceptional craftsmanship, problem-solving capabilities for complex mechanical challenges, and fostering a welcoming community space for cyclists of all levels.Our commitment to transparency ensures detailed inspections, clear pricing, and complimentary courtesy bicycles during repairs. With a focus on durability and performance optimisation, we serve both individual cyclists and trade partners seeking specialist knowledge. Our e-commerce platform, Freshtripe, extends our expertise to hand-built wheels and curated cycling products. Through meticulous attention to detail and a dedication to preserving cycling heritage, we deliver tailored solutions that align with individual requirements and industry standards.
Services
Bicycle Repairs
Custom Builds
Wheel Building
Parts Sales
Vintage Restoration
Servicing
Component Fitting
Cargo Bike Solutions
Details
- Year established: 2007
Highlights and features
- We offer 33+ years of specialist wheel building expertise
- Our workshop handles complex repairs for vintage and modern bicycles
- We provide same-day service without appointments when possible
- Our team combines mechanical skill with problem-solving capabilities for unique builds
- We maintain a curated selection of premium Japanese and European components
Services
Bicycle Repairs
Our comprehensive bicycle repair service covers all makes and models, from vintage Sturmey Archer hubs to modern cargo bikes. We perform precision diagnostics, component overhauls, and mechanical adjustments using specialist tools for tasks like reaming, facing, and thread chasing. With 55 hourly rate (minimum 10 charge), we ensure optimal performance through meticulous attention to bearings, gears, and braking systems.
Custom Builds
We create tailored bicycles to exact specifications, sourcing premium components from renowned brands. Our expertise spans fixed-gear, touring, gravel, and road bikes, with options for rare NJS parts or vintage restorations. Starting from 40 for wheel builds (plus parts), we combine technical knowledge with creative problem-solving to transform conceptual ideas into functional, high-performance bicycles that reflect individual riding styles and aesthetic preferences.
Wheel Building
With over 33 years' experience, our wheel building service crafts durable, performance-optimised wheels using Sapim or DT Swiss spokes. We offer expert guidance on component combinations for various cycling disciplines, from commuter bikes to competition machines. Services include truing, hub servicing (from 25), and complete builds starting at 40, ensuring precision engineering for both modern and heritage bicycles.
Servicing
Our servicing packages maintain bicycles in peak condition, with 45 for standard bikes and 75 for cargo models. The comprehensive process includes drivetrain cleaning, lubrication, bearing adjustments, and safety inspections covering tyres, brakes, and structural components. We provide transparent reporting on wear issues and offer courtesy bicycles during service periods to ensure uninterrupted mobility.
Vintage Restoration
Specialising in breathing new life into heritage bicycles, we restore original components where possible while integrating modern upgrades for reliability. Our process includes frame refinishing, NJS-approved parts sourcing, and mechanical overhauls. We preserve historical integrity while enhancing functionality, making vintage bicycles roadworthy for contemporary use through meticulous attention to traditional craftsmanship techniques.
Questions
What types of bicycles do you specialise in?
We handle all bicycle types including vintage models, cargo bikes, fixed-gear, touring, gravel, and road bikes. Our expertise extends to specialist brands like Winther Kangaroo, Veloe, and Nihola.
Can you perform emergency repairs?
While we don't offer 24/7 emergency services, we prioritise urgent repairs during operating hours and often complete same-day turnaround for standard issues without requiring appointments.
Do you offer custom component sourcing?
Yes, we source rare and premium components globally, including Japanese NJS-approved parts. Our expertise ensures compatibility between traditional and modern elements for unique custom builds.
What servicing options are available?
We provide standard bicycle servicing (£45) and cargo bike servicing (£75), covering complete mechanical checks, drivetrain maintenance, and safety inspections with transparent reporting on required repairs.
Can you restore vintage bicycles?
Our vintage restoration service preserves original components while integrating necessary upgrades. We offer frame refinishing, hub overhauls (from £25), and sourcing of period-correct parts to revive heritage bicycles.
Do you sell bicycle components online?
Yes, our Freshtripe webshop offers curated cycling products including hand-built wheels, premium components, and specialist tools, with expert guidance available through our physical workshop in Cambridge.
