Today we’d like to introduce you to Holly Watson
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Beltline Biking was founded by Holly and Monte Watson, driven by a vision to impact micro-mobility solutions in Atlanta. With a background in GIS and infrastructure projects, Holly brings a wealth of experience to the table, while Monte’s entrepreneurial spirit fueled the venture. Beltline Biking proudly stands as a Black female majority-owned business, committed to making a difference in the community.
The journey began with the grand opening of Beltline Biking on May 10th in West Midtown, Atlanta, carrying a range of e-bikes from reputable brands like Magnum Bikes, Electric Bike Company, and Lectric Bike XP Trike. Our mission was to provide sustainable and convenient transportation options for Atlanta residents and visitors.
We quickly expanded our services to include rentals on the Beltline, a high-traffic area perfect for commuters. Partnering with The Union Fit Hub allowed us to establish organized e-bike rentals at key locations, enhancing accessibility for our customers. This collaboration was a significant milestone, showcasing our commitment to micro-mobility solutions and community engagement.
In addition to rentals, we introduced various programs and services, such as e-bike fleet management for properties and a subscription model for long-term rentals. Our maintenance plans and flexible return policies ensured a seamless experience for our customers.
Despite facing challenges, including being excluded from the Atlanta e-bike rebate program, we remained resilient. Our participation in events like the Peachtree Road Race and the Memorial Day weekend rental promotions helped us stay connected with the community and raise awareness about our offerings.
We are also deeply committed to giving back to the community. We are organizing fundraisers to donate bikes to rehab facilities and halfway homes, providing e-bikes as a form of transportation for residents who have had their driver’s licenses revoked or suspended. This initiative aims to support their reintegration into society and enhance their mobility and independence.
Additionally, we have partnered with the Atlanta Citizen Review Board to promote their Youth Essay, Art, Poetry, and Rap contest. This partnership reflects our dedication to fostering creativity and providing platforms for young voices in our community.
Today, Beltline Biking continues to thrive as a hub for e-bike enthusiasts and urban commuters in Atlanta. Our dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction drives us forward, and we are proud to contribute to the city’s micro-mobility landscape while championing Black female entrepreneurship.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
At Beltline Biking, we’ve certainly faced our share of challenges, including being excluded from Atlanta’s e-bike rebate program, despite meeting all the necessary criteria. While this exclusion was a setback, especially after we invested heavily in anticipation of increased demand, it has taught us a valuable lesson about the importance of having the right connections and strategic partnerships. The journey hasn’t been without its obstacles, but it’s also shown us the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of unexpected challenges. We’ve realized that building strong relationships within the community and with local leaders is essential to ensuring our business’s success and continuing to serve our customers effectively. Our vision for Beltline Biking has always been about more than just selling e-bikes—it’s about enhancing micro-mobility and promoting sustainable transportation solutions in Atlanta. While this experience has been tough, it has reinforced our commitment to our mission and highlighted areas where we can grow stronger. Moving forward, we’re focused on building those critical connections that will help us navigate similar challenges in the future. We’re optimistic about what lies ahead and remain dedicated to our role in making Atlanta a leader in sustainable transportation.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Beltline Biking?
Beltline Biking is a minority-owned e-bike shop dedicated to transforming urban transportation in Atlanta. Established with a vision to enhance micro-mobility solutions, we are passionate about promoting sustainable and eco-friendly transportation options that cater to the diverse needs of our community.
What do you do, what do you specialize in / what are you known for?
We specialize in offering a comprehensive range of e-bikes that suit various lifestyles, whether for recreation, exercise, commuting, or pure enjoyment. Our services extend beyond just sales; we provide rentals, maintenance, and fleet management solutions, ensuring our customers have a seamless and enjoyable e-bike experience. We are particularly known for our collaboration with local businesses and communities to make e-bike access convenient and widespread.
What sets you apart from others?
What sets Beltline Biking apart is our deep commitment to community engagement and our tailored approach to service. Being a minority-owned business, we bring a unique perspective to the micro-mobility space, focusing on inclusivity and accessibility. Our partnerships with local organizations, such as The Union Fit Hub, and our proactive involvement in community events underscore our dedication to making a positive impact. Additionally, our strategic location on the Atlanta Beltline positions us as a convenient and central hub for e-bike enthusiasts and commuters alike.
What are you most proud brand-wise?
Brand-wise, we are most proud of our role as a pioneer in Atlanta’s micro-mobility movement. Our efforts to provide high-quality, reliable, and stylish e-bikes have been well-received, and we take pride in our ability to offer solutions that not only meet but exceed our customers’ expectations. Our involvement in local events, sustainability initiatives, and support for minority entrepreneurship further solidify our brand’s reputation as a leader in the e-bike industry.
What do you want our readers to know about your brand, offerings, services, etc.?
We want your readers to know that Beltline Biking is more than just an e-bike shop; we are a community-focused organization dedicated to making Atlanta a greener, healthier, and more connected city. Our offerings include a diverse range of e-bikes for sale and rent, maintenance services, and fleet management solutions tailored for both individuals and businesses. We are committed to providing exceptional customer service, and our knowledgeable staff is always ready to help customers find the perfect e-bike to suit their needs.
At Beltline Biking, we believe in the power of micro-mobility to transform urban living, and we invite everyone to join us on this journey towards a more sustainable and vibrant Atlanta.
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
While Beltline Biking wasn’t yet in business during the Covid-19 crisis, the pandemic played a crucial role in sparking the idea to start our company. The lockdowns and social distancing measures highlighted the importance of outdoor activities that benefit both physical and mental health. During this time, many people sought ways to stay active and healthy while being outdoors, which led to the increased popularity of biking.
Although Beltline Biking was not operational during the initial stages of the pandemic, the experience underscored the importance of providing safe, healthy, and enjoyable outdoor activities for our community. The idea of starting an e-bike shop was driven by the desire to offer a solution that meets the growing demand for sustainable transportation and promotes a healthier lifestyle.
As we move forward, our mission remains clear: to enhance micro-mobility solutions and promote sustainable transportation in Atlanta. Beltline Biking is dedicated to making e-bikes accessible to everyone, fostering a culture of health, wellness, and sustainability.
The Covid-19 crisis may have sparked the idea for Beltline Biking, but our commitment to our community and our vision for a healthier, more connected future continues to drive us every day.
Pricing:
- 1400-2600
Contact Info:
- Website: https://beltlinebiking.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beltlinebiking
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeltlineBiking/
