Claudette: A Passion That Spans the Seasons

When you walk through the doors of Cycles Dupuis, there's a good chance you'll meet Claudette. For more than fifteen years, she has been helping cyclists choose the right clothing, footwear, and accessories with the same enthusiasm and attention to detail. But her story with sports and equipment began long before she joined our team.

Before joining Cycles Dupuis in 2010, Claudette spent twelve years working in the restaurant industry. In 1999, she made the transition to sporting goods retail by joining the team at Andrée Lalonde Sport. At the time, she worked with a wide range of sports and activities, including alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, inline skating, tennis, badminton, golf, and much more.

This diverse experience helped shape what remains her greatest strength today: an in-depth knowledge of equipment and an exceptional ability to match the right product with the right person.

A Passion for Product Evolution

What has always fascinated Claudette is the technical side of products. Over the decades, she has witnessed the remarkable evolution of the cycling industry firsthand.

She often recalls the early cycling shorts that featured genuine animal-skin chamois pads. Before heading out for a ride, cyclists would actually dampen the chamois to improve comfort. It was a very different world from today's lightweight, breathable, and ergonomically designed cycling apparel.

Claudette has experienced these changes up close. She enjoys understanding new technologies, testing products, and, most importantly, helping customers understand how these innovations can improve their riding experience.

Cycling: More Than Just a Job

For many years, Claudette participated in cycling tours and even used her bicycle as a daily mode of transportation. One of her fondest memories is a journey from the Repentigny area to Mont-Laurier, an adventure that taught her just how much the right equipment can impact a ride.

Following a significant injury, she unfortunately had to step away from cycling. Although she no longer rides as she once did, those experiences remain an important part of who she is. She understands the realities cyclists face—the small discomforts that can ruin a ride and the details that can make it unforgettable.

It is this perspective, gained through countless kilometers on the bike, that continues to shape the advice she shares every day with Cycles Dupuis customers.

Expertise Built Through Continuous Learning

Throughout her career, Claudette has participated in numerous training sessions and product clinics offered by manufacturers and industry representatives. Season after season, she has expanded her knowledge of technical apparel, footwear, accessories, and the latest innovations in the cycling world.

This ongoing education has allowed her to stay current with product developments and better understand cyclists' needs in every condition. How should you dress when the weather is unpredictable? Which jacket will help extend your riding season? What accessories provide the greatest comfort?

Thanks to years of learning and hands-on experience, Claudette has become a valuable resource for helping customers find equipment that truly matches their riding style and goals.

Another Passion: Bird Photography

When she's not at the shop, Claudette dedicates much of her time to another passion: bird photography.

Over the years, customers have come to know her well. Some even stop by to share photos of birds they've spotted during their own cycling adventures.

That may be the best way to describe Claudette: curious, attentive, and passionate, always eager to share her knowledge and connect with the people she meets.

Thank You, Claudette

Since 2010, Claudette has helped make Cycles Dupuis much more than a bicycle shop. Through her experience, expertise, and generosity, she helps cyclists every day find the equipment they need to fully enjoy their passion.

And if you're looking for the perfect piece of gear for your next ride, chances are she already has the answer.