Pedego Electric Bikes has honored Pedego Redmond with its 2018 Rookie of the Year award.

Out of 140 stores worldwide, the Redmond store was named number one.

“It was really surprising. It’s something we weren’t seeking. We were trying to get business done and make it work,” said owner Mike Nelson. “It was a big honor to be named.”

Pedego held its 10th annual Pedego dealer meeting from Dec. 2-4 in Newport Beach, California, to honor its top dealers. More than 200 Pedego professionals attended the event.

“We’re proud to recognize Pedego Redmond with our 2018 Rookie of the Year award,” said the company’s CEO and co-founder Don DiCostanzo in a release. “Dick and Donna Nelson and Mike and Holly Nelson, the owners of the Pedego Redmond store, have gone more than the extra mile to delight our customers with exceptional sales and customer service.”

The family-owned business opened its doors in Redmond in March 2018. Their journey began two years back when Mike’s parents were looking to stay active during retirement. He shared there was a lot of research that had to be done before he fully agreed.

“I had to think about it and did some research,” Mike said. “I really liked Pedego. They have a very straightforward, open and honest way of [doing] business. I really like[d] that.”

The Nelsons searched for locations in various cities but when their space on 8296 160th Ave. NE opened up, it was confirmed they had to buy a space in the bicycle capital of the Northwest.

Pedego Redmond offers various electric bike models and different variations of the models. They will soon have more than 20 models in their store. Pedego Redmond offers cruisers, tandems, commuters, beach cruisers, mountain bikes, full-suspension mountain bikes, electric folding bikes and more. The store even offers its own Seattle edition bike that includes fenders, racks and a light package.

According to Mike, the city commuter bike is the most popular. The bike has fenders, runs 30-60 miles on one charge and has a removable battery. As for Mike, he rides a Seattle edition cross bike he custom made for himself.

“It’s more than just a toy or [something] to have in a garage. Around here, it’s a legitimate answer to a 20-mile commute, or trying to get out of traffic or to be active,” he said. “They look nice and it’s fun to have them but it’s also practical.”

Mike said it wasn’t about getting an award. For him and his family, it was more about making sure they had the ability to meet the needs of their customers. They sell bikes, options and opportunities for people to get outside.

Pedego Redmond is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and from noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Monday and Tuesday are for appointment only.