Trailhead Mountain Bike Shop owner Fernando Benavides has been mountain biking for most of his life.

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After retiring early from a career in law enforcement, his love of bikes was the perfect way to transition into his family business.

“It was always his dream to retire and open up a bike shop. And so, you know, we just made it happen,” his wife Yessenia Benavides said.

The Benavides’ opened the shop in 2021 in a building that has been on his father’s family's side for generations. The building housed various family businesses including a shoe shop that belonged to his uncle in the 80s. The Benavides’ maintain the building in its original state as much as possible by still using pulley windows and skeleton key doors.


“We don’t plan on ever getting rid of it,” he added. My grandfather’s name is still on the sidewalk and we even have our kids working in the shop. We’re truly family owned.”

Trailhead Mountain Bike Shop sells road, electric and standard bikes from brands like Giant, Evil, Rocky Mountain and Transition. The shop also sells helmets, gloves, apparel, bike parts and more. Custom builds and bike repairs are also available.

Looking ahead

Benavides said he and his family are committed to building relationships with other bike enthusiasts and provide quality service to customers. The shop hosts clinics on bike maintenance and also hosts ride events in New Braunfels and San Antonio.


“We encourage people to take a break from normal life and get them outdoors,” he said. “We want them to know that this is for all ages.”