ISHPEMING, Mich. (WZMQ) – A new storefront in downtown Ishpeming is calling on all skateboarders, scooters, and bikers.
Bates Bikes of Marquette is kicking off 2026 by opening a new location on 211 S Main Street, called Bates Bikes and Boards. The idea began when owner Everett Bateman wanted to expand his passion to other reaches of the county.
“I grew up at a skate park. Biking gave me an outlet, exercise, community and friends, and it led us to where we are now,” said Bateman. “I wanted to expand the variety of products that we had. Ishpeming is a growing city and I wanted to provide something that I grew up around.”
When the snow clears, the shop aims to work as a hub for local skaters, located just a few blocks away from Ishpeming’s new skate park. Everything sold at the shop can also be serviced and repaired on site. With a unique selection of skating, biking, and scootering equipment, Bateman says safety is a high priority.
“Etiquette and safety are going to be a part of our identity here,” he explained. “We’re going to be selling a lot of safety equipment. Helmets, knee pads, shin pads, all those great things for the riders at the skate park and beyond.”
The storefront held a soft opening just a couple of weeks ago, taking suggestions from the area on how it can live up to its full potential.
“We want to make sure that we understand the need, and that we’re fulfilling the roles as a skate shop in Ishpeming, but also Negaunee and Marquette,” said Bateman.
Bates Bikes and Boards will officially open its 2026 season January 3. Through the winter, the shop will be open on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., but plans to open at least five days a week into the summer.
