Urban sociologist Ray Oldenburg coined the term “third place” to describe social spaces that exist beyond home (first place) and work (second place). These are places where people can unwind, interact freely, and build community. Bars, coffee shops, and parks often serve this role.
But for cyclists, bike shops sometimes become these informal hubs.
When I started cycling as my primary mode of transport (and my source of joy and main personality) in August 2022, I didn’t think about dedicating most of my Friday afternoons in a bike shop. At that time, they were just that: places of transaction. I get products or service; they get sales.
End of story.
But one such shop in Pasig City stands out.
While Tambay Cycling Hub started as a straightforward bike shop in Brgy. Pineda in 2022, it has accidentally—but also purposefully—become a third place for many of us: a safe space for some after-work respite, a gathering spot for other transport cyclists, and a venue for shared stories and experiences.
Did you know? Tambay Cycling Hub has a new location: Visit them at 93 East Capitol Drive, Brgy. Kapitolyo, Pasig City.
More than just a Bike Shop
A friend of mine recommended that I look at Tambay since, when I was still getting the feel of shopping for cycling gear, most bike shops felt rather overpriced or were focused on the sporty side of cycling.
My only idea of Pasig at that time was Ortigas Center, so places like Pineda and Kapitolyo were foreign to me. But when I decided to go and bike there one afternoon in December 2022, right from the get-go, Tambay felt like the Goldilocks of bike shops in Manila: It was juuust right.
I initially went there for a basic tune-up before my La Union bike tour, but after that, I’ve been going back for more than just the monthly maintenance routine.
As I grew more acquainted with the bike commuting community, Tambay became a natural meeting point for me; thus, that part of Pasig became more central to me than Makati. I, alongside others, came by to hang out, listen to Eugene talk about or to the bikes he’s working on, or share stories about someone’s latest bike tour or Audax challenge.
Most of the time, I hung out to happily spend on “something I probably need at some point in time,” much to the encouragement of Aneka.
You can say I found myself, both for the first time and once again, in Tambay: I became more sociable (especially after the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns), a better cyclist, and an overall better human being (at least I hope so). I had also found my two closest friends in the community by just being there regularly.
In less than two years, Tambay gave me everything, including the ability to spend my money… wisely… sure.
Being a regular “tambay at Tambay” was never planned, but as a bike commuter, it makes sense. The weekly Nipa Brew paired with chismis+budol felt like a perfect way to end the week and start the weekend. After all, cycling is an act that thrives on camaraderie and community.
And in a region that often lacks dedicated safe spaces for cyclists to gather, our beloved bike shop fills that gap.
A New Location to Make Tambay
Tambay has fully embraced its role as being a third place, whether it was in the business plan or not, and especially at their new spot in Brgy. Kapitolyo–an area in Pasig touted for its community-focused atmosphere.
And perhaps that’s what makes it special. Metro Manila often feels chaotic and isolating, so finding a place where you belong matters.
The new place is one hell of an upgrade; Kevin and team really put so much thought into the design of the shop. The cozy yet spacious atmosphere, the open seating areas (particularly on the second floor), and warm lighting all encourage people to stay a little longer. Their display areas are bigger and brighter, with more items visible (good for sales, sorta bad for my credit and debit cards). There’s a dedicated wet area for bike washes, and one for maintenance/repair/installations as well.
But beyond selling bikes and gear, Tambay continues to foster a cycling culture that makes this megapolis feel a little smaller, a little more connected.
Whether you’re dropping by for a quick repair, a bottle of tea soda, or just to chat, Tambay Cycling Hub is open from 11am until 7pm every Tuesday to Saturday (except holidays), ready to welcome everyone who comes through its doors.
Tara…
If you’ve reached the end of this posting, thank you for reading! Have you been to the new location of Tambay? How was it for you? I’d love to know your thoughts in the comments below!
Leave a Reply