Last week, I found myself in a small, hidden street in Makati, the bustling heart of Manila. I was on my way to La Course Vélo, a shop that has already become a sacred place among cyclists. As I opened the door, I immediately felt the aura of the place. The scent of freshly polished metal, soft lighting on perfectly arranged high-end bikes, and a silence that felt more like a gallery than a typical bike shop. This wasn’t a place to just buy bikes – this was an experience.
The shop owner JP Carino, an enthusiastic cycling enthusiast, and his wife Lindsey greeted me with a smile that radiated pure passion. A conversation quickly developed about the cycling culture in the Philippines, the challenges of bringing exclusive brands to the country, and the importance of places like La Course Vélo. “This is where dreams and technology meet,” he said, as he introduced me to the concept of his shop.
Tailored Precision with Frederick Martin Ilagan
A special highlight of La Course Vélo is the opportunity to have the perfect bike custom-built. Under the expertise of Frederick Martin Ilagan, a renowned bike fitting expert and founder of Forward Motion Performance, each bike is crafted with the utmost precision. As the only Level 4 IBFI-certified bike fitter in the Philippines, Martin brings his extensive experience in bike optimization to help both beginners and professionals find their ideal riding position.
His expertise in bike fitting ensures that every bike is not only tailored to the rider’s body but also elevates comfort and performance to the next level. Martin works in several cities across the Philippines, including San Pablo City, Makati, Quezon City, Cebu City, and Davao City, and has built an outstanding reputation. His work makes La Course Vélo a unique destination for cyclists seeking to get the most out of their riding experience.
A Shop with a Global Vision
La Course Vélo is not just a bike shop – it’s a café, it’s a meeting place, and it showcases the finest brands in the cycling world. The selection here is one that would make even European cycling enthusiasts envious. But La Course Vélo offers more than just products. It’s a gathering place for Manila’s growing cycling community, a space where technology, design, and passion come together.
Its connection with Rouleur, the renowned cycling magazine, underscores the shop’s ambition to be more than just a retail space. As a member of the Rouleur Society, La Course Vélo stands alongside select premium retailers worldwide who are dedicated to cycling culture. This partnership not only brings exclusive products to Manila but also provides a platform for community events, group rides, and cultural exchange.
Rouleur Society: A Global Network
The Rouleur Society is an initiative by the magazine of the same name, connecting bike shops and clubhouses that stand out for their exceptional quality and commitment to cycling culture. As a member of this prestigious community, La Course Vélo embodies the philosophy that cycling is more than just a sport. It is a lifestyle, an art form, and a source of endless stories.
An Experience That Stays with You
My visit didn’t end when I left the shop. The conversations I had, the stories I heard, and the passion that was palpable in every corner of La Course Vélo still linger with me. This shop is proof of how cycling culture connects people – across borders, languages, and oceans.
La Course Vélo is a must-visit for any cyclist coming to Manila. It’s not just a place to buy bikes. It’s a space that inspires, connects, and celebrates the love of cycling.
