The Pro's Closet

The company was founded in 2006 by Nick Martin, a former professional mountain biker. The venture began as an eBay store operated from Martin's VW bus, initially selling his and fellow racers' used gear to cover living expenses. This operation grew into eBay's largest store for used cycling equipment. A significant milestone occurred in 2017 when the company raised seed capital, allowing it to move beyond consignment, purchase inventory directly, and launch its own direct-to-consumer website. This shift established its Certified Pre-Owned program, which includes a rigorous inspection and servicing process for every bike. Over the years, TPC secured substantial funding, including a $40 million Series B round in 2021, to scale operations and expand. In September 2020, founder Nick Martin stepped down as CEO, transitioning to a brand-focused role, with John Levisay taking over leadership.

TPC serves a broad market of cycling enthusiasts, from beginners to seasoned racers, offering road, mountain, gravel, and e-bikes. Revenue is generated through the sale of these certified pre-owned products. The company aimed to solve key consumer pain points in the used bike market, such as trust and selection, by providing detailed inspections, transparency, and a customer-centric sales process. After facing significant market headwinds post-pandemic, the company ceased operations in October 2024. However, in November 2024, the brand and its intellectual property were acquired by Elshair Companies, a private investment firm with e-commerce expertise. The Pro's Closet has since relaunched under new leadership, including veteran TPC employees, with a focus on reviving its core services of buying and selling used bikes.