A Columbia Tradition Since 1973
At Muletown Bikes, we believe every bike has a story — and ours goes back over 50 years. Located in the heart of downtown Columbia, Tennessee, our shop carries on a rich tradition of serving local cyclists with passion, knowledge, and a commitment to community.
Our History
It all began in 1973, when A.C. Howell, a faculty member at Columbia Military Academy, opened a small side business he called The Wheel. What started as a hobby quickly became Columbia’s first bicycle shop — and a beloved part of the community. For more than 45 years, The Wheel provided bicycles, repairs, and friendly service to generations of riders.
Over time, the shop evolved. After A.C. retired, the store transitioned into the Trek Bicycle Store Columbia, continuing its legacy at 11 Public Square, a building with roots going back even further — in 1857, it was known as a place to buy wagon wheels.
In 2017, Timothy and Katie Wakefield took ownership of the business. Beginning renovations in January, they officially opened the Trek Bicycle Store Columbia on July 1, 2017, breathing new life into the shop while honoring its past.
The historic building itself was purchased and restored by Mike Wolfe, best known from the hit show American Pickers. Mike’s thoughtful renovation helped preserve the building’s character and contributed to the revitalization of downtown Columbia — all while ensuring that a bike shop remained at its heart.
Today: Muletown Bikes
Now known as Muletown Bikes, we continue the tradition of offering expert bicycle sales, service, and repair in the same iconic location.
We proudly carry trusted brands like:
- Giant
- Aventon
- State Bicycle Co.
And we service all makes and models — whether it’s your child’s first bike, a daily commuter, or a high-performance road machine.
More Than Just a Bike Shop
Muletown Bikes is more than just a retail space — it’s a hub for Columbia’s cycling community. We’re known for our friendly, knowledgeable staff, our deep roots in the area, and our commitment to helping people ride more and ride better.
Whether you’re new to cycling, a weekend warrior, or a lifelong enthusiast, we’re here to help you find your next ride — and to keep it running smoothly for years to come.
Come visit us at 11 Public Square and experience the history, the hospitality, and the bikes for yourself.
Full-Service Repairs
New Bikes & Gear
Locally Owned, Community Focused
Vinny Tavares
Vinny Tavares, owner and founder of Muletown Bikes, brings a world of cycling experience — and a global journey — to the heart of Columbia, Tennessee.
Originally from Brazil, Vinny fell in love with bikes at a young age and quickly found his place in the world of mountain bike racing. From winding dirt trails to technical downhills, riding wasn’t just a hobby — it was a way of life.
At 18 years old, Vinny moved to Ireland, where he turned his passion into a career. Over the course of 10 years, he managed a successful bike shop, gaining deep experience in bike service, retail, and helping cyclists of all levels find the right ride.
It was in Ireland that Vinny met his future wife — a Tennessee native. Their paths eventually led them to settle in the U.S., and in 2019, Vinny made the move to Tennessee, where he quickly became a fixture in the regional cycling scene.
For the next six years, Vinny managed Ride 615, a well-respected bike shop in Nashville, where he built strong relationships, honed his expertise, and deepened his connection to the local cycling community.
In 2025, driven by a desire to create something of his own, Vinny launched Muletown Bikes in historic downtown Columbia, TN. Housed in a landmark building with deep cycling roots, the shop is the latest chapter in a decades-long story — now with Vinny at the helm.
Known for his friendly, approachable style, mechanical know-how, and dedication to service, Vinny is more than just a bike shop owner — he’s a trusted resource, a community builder, and a lifelong cyclist who’s excited to share his passion with Columbia and beyond.