The End Of An Era: 5 Ways Nytro Multisport's Legacy Lives On In Encinitas (And What's There Now)
For decades, Nytro Multisport was not just a bike shop; it was a global pilgrimage site for triathletes, cyclists, and multisport enthusiasts. Located directly on the iconic South Coast Highway 101 in Encinitas, California, the store built a reputation as the epicenter of high-performance cycling and triathlon technology. As of late December 2025, the landscape of this legendary retail space has shifted, marking the end of a significant era in the Southern California endurance sports community. This article explores the powerful legacy of Nytro and reveals what has become of the hallowed ground where countless athletes found their race-winning gear.
The transition of this highly specialized retailer into a new format is a major piece of news for anyone who ever trained, raced, or lived the triathlon lifestyle in San Diego County. While the name Nytro Multisport may have faded from the storefront, the influence of its pioneering spirit remains a core part of the local cycling culture, especially regarding the crucial services it championed, like professional bike fitting.
The Nytro Multisport Story: A Triathlon Retail Pioneer
Nytro Multisport's history is deeply intertwined with the rise of the modern triathlon. The store was founded in 1992 in San Diego, California, and quickly established itself as a worldwide leader in the multisport retail market.
The original owner, Craig Turner, was instrumental in the store’s early success, noting that the triathlon brand Quintana Roo was essential to building the Nytro name.
The store was a one-stop shop that catered to every level of athlete, from a first-time sprint triathlete to a seasoned professional.
A later owner, Skip McDowell, continued the store's tradition of excellence before the business was put up for sale in early 2019.
The shop’s location in Encinitas, a coastal town famous for its active lifestyle and proximity to world-class training routes, cemented its status as a mecca for endurance athletes.
Nytro Multisport Biography & Key Facts
- Founded: 1992 in San Diego, CA.
- Primary Location: 940 S Coast Highway 101, Encinitas, CA 92024.
- Specialization: Triathlon, Cycling, and Multisport gear and services.
- Pioneering Services: Professional Bike Fitting, Fly'N'Ride Program, Free Fit for Life Guarantee.
- Notable Brands Carried: Trek, Felt, Cervelo, Quintana Roo, TriRig, Giant, XLAB, Betty Designs.
- Current Status: The Nytro Multisport retail operation is closed. The physical location has transitioned into a Trek Bicycle Encinitas store.
1. The Legendary Bike Fitting Service and "Free Fit for Life"
What truly separated Nytro Multisport from a standard bike shop was its dedication to the science of speed. Their professional bike fitting service was considered state-of-the-art and a major draw for serious athletes.
The staff understood that a perfect fit was the single most important factor in maximizing a cyclist's power output and comfort, especially over the long distances of an Ironman triathlon.
Nytro pioneered programs that became industry standards, most famously the Free Fit for Life guarantee. This service ensured that a customer's bike fit would be adjusted for free for the life of the bicycle, accommodating changes in the athlete's body or riding style.
This commitment to the athlete’s long-term performance, not just the initial sale, built a level of trust and loyalty that few other retailers could match. Their expertise covered all bike types, from high-end time trial (TT) bikes and triathlon bikes to standard road bikes and even the burgeoning market of e-bikes.
2. The "Fly'N'Ride" Program and Global Reach
Nytro's influence extended far beyond the local San Diego cycling community. The store was a global destination, a reputation bolstered by its innovative Fly'N'Ride program.
This unique service allowed out-of-town and international customers to purchase a high-end bicycle, fly into San Diego, have their bike professionally fitted and assembled, and then ride it out of the store.
The program eliminated the logistical nightmare of traveling with a new, expensive bike, making Nytro the practical choice for athletes worldwide looking for brands like Cervelo, Trek, and TriRig.
The store was also a major supplier of cutting-edge triathlon components and accessories, including race-day essentials like hydration systems from brands such as XLAB, which was born out of the Nytro Multisport environment.
3. The Iconic Location: From Nytro to Trek Bicycle Encinitas
The most significant and recent update regarding the Nytro Multisport location is its change in ownership and branding. While Nytro was put up for sale in 2019, the location at 940 S Coast Highway 101 has since been acquired by one of the world's largest bicycle manufacturers.
The former multisport mecca is now operating as Trek Bicycle Encinitas.
This transition is symbolic of a broader trend in the cycling retail industry, where large manufacturers are consolidating the market. While the Nytro name is gone, the space continues its legacy as a premier cycling destination on the Coast Highway 101 corridor.
The new Trek store now serves the local community with the latest bikes from the Trek and Bontrager lines, along with comprehensive bike repair and service for all makes and models.
4. Continuing the Multisport Spirit with New Services
While the specialized, triathlon-focused inventory of the old Nytro Multisport is no longer the main focus, the spirit of service and community remains. Trek Bicycle Encinitas has introduced new offerings that cater to the modern active lifestyle of the area.
The store is a key provider of bicycle and e-bike rentals, allowing tourists and locals alike to explore the beautiful North County San Diego coastline.
This focus on rentals and general cycling support ensures that the location continues to be a hub for active transportation and leisure riding, carrying on the tradition of getting people on two wheels in the Encinitas area.
5. The Legacy on the Local Triathlon Community
The closure of Nytro Multisport was a sentimental moment for the local triathlon community. The store was a gathering place, a sponsor of local races, and a consistent partner in events like Bike to Work Day, where it hosted pit stops for riders.
The store was a major retailer for niche, high-performance triathlon apparel brands, such as Betty Designs, further cementing its role as a core part of the culture.
Even though the physical store has changed hands, the athletes, coaches, and clubs who relied on Nytro’s expertise continue to train on the same roads and beaches of Encinitas. The store’s commitment to technical knowledge and customer service set a high bar for all subsequent cycling retailers in the region. The legacy of Nytro Multisport is not just in the building, but in the thousands of athletes who crossed finish lines faster thanks to the expertise found at 940 S Coast Highway 101.
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