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Liberty Bicycles Announces New Leadership, Continuing a Legacy of Excellence in Asheville

Feb 13, 2025 02:04PM ● By Emma Castleberry
Liberty Bicycles, a cornerstone of Asheville’s cycling community for more than 40 years, is entering a new chapter. Founders Claudia and Mike Nix are transferring ownership to locals Ben and Bonnie Hamrick and longtime Liberty General Manager, Sam White. 

Ben, a loyal Liberty customer and partner at DMJPS, and Bonnie, owner of High Cotton, share a
passion for cycling and community. The Hamricks will work with Liberty veteran Sam White, general manager and now part-owner of the shop after 35 years. "Ben has been a customer almost as long as the shop has been open," said co-founder Claudia. "He understands our values and knows what we stand for." The Hamricks will continue their positions at DMJPS and High Cotton while supporting Liberty Bicycles.

Liberty Bicycles, founded by Claudia and Mike Nix in 1980, has been a pillar of Asheville's cycling
community. Originally operating from the Nixes' front porch, the business quickly grew into a
leading bike shop known for its commitment to excellent service. The couple significantly
contributed to the region's cycling culture, engaging in state and national advocacy work, and
founding the Blue Ridge Bicycle Club and the Asheville Bicycle Racing Club.

For more than four decades, Liberty has been a trusted hub for cyclists of all levels. It is
renowned for its expertise in custom bike fittings, high-end servicing, excellent product
selection, and local greenways and bike trail advocacy. Locals Ben and Bonnie Hamrick are
honored to uphold Liberty's legacy. Liberty Bicycles is a particularly special place for Ben as a
lifelong and passionate cyclist.

The Hamricks, White, and the Liberty Bikes team plan to expand community involvement, host
more events, and grow sponsorships — while maintaining Liberty’s status as one of the nation’s
leading bike shops.

"We are incredibly grateful for our dedicated, long-time Liberty team, all of whom are
continuing in their roles at Liberty," said Ben. "Sam has been a trusted leader and friend for
decades, and we’re thrilled to see him step into an ownership role and continue as general
manager."
 
For more information, visit LibertyBikes.com or follow Liberty Bicycles on Facebook and Instagram @libertybikesavl. 

Source: Liberty Bicycles.

Source: Liberty Bicycles.