Peter Finklea is a Mellow Johnny's institution. Not only is he exceptionally knowledgeable about all things cycling, Peter is one of the most humble, thorough, and hard-working employees we've ever come across. Currently managing our rental department and all of our warranties (A thankless job he handles with aplomb), Peter is a busy man. Learn more about our star employee below.

1.You've been in the industry for years now, can you give us a snapshot of your cycling related work experience?

I've been in the bicycle retail industry for almost 30yrs and have held several positions. A mechanic for the first 20ish years w/Sales mixed in (Austin). Service Manager for two years (Palo Alto). Purchasing of Parts & Accessories for six years (San Francisco & MJ's). And most recently Manager of MJ's Rental Dept. and Warranties.

2. What got you interested in bikes initially?

I realized from a very early age, bikes were the most exciting and accessible way to establish independence. Just get on your bike and go. In my high school years we had a Bicycle Maintenance class in the Industrial Arts curriculum. It was taught by a teacher that had ridden across America and maintained his bike. Now he was passing his knowledge on to fresh minds. I was hooked. A couple of years after high school I landed my first bike gig at Cothron's Bike & Lock here in Austin, and the rest is history. I have worked in other industries over the years, but always come back to the passion of bicycles. In the last two years, I have been passing my knowledge and passion on as a coach of the Austin High Mountain Bike Team. Go Maroons!