Services
Free Bike Repairs
How Are Bicycles Repaired?
We offer two modes of bike repair to accommodate different preferences and skill levels: DIY (Do It Yourself) and volunteer-assisted repairs. Our goal is to provide a supportive environment where you can learn and maintain your bike effectively.
Who Is Repairing It?
Our team consists of experienced volunteers who are passionate about cycling and bike maintenance. They are here to guide you, whether you prefer to work on your bike yourself or need assistance from one of our skilled volunteers.
Getting Started
Find a Public Open Hour:
Check our schedule for public open hours. Simply bring your bike during these times.
Sign Up with the Host:
Upon arrival, sign up with the host located near the big brown round table with the gray donations box. The host will ask for your contact information and the specific issues or goals you have for your bike.
Repair Options
DIY Mode:
In DIY mode, you take the lead on repairing your bike while gaining valuable hands-on experience. Our knowledgeable volunteers are here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you learn the skills needed to maintain your bike confidently.
Don't hesitate to ask questions—curiosity is encouraged! Whether you want to know how your bike works, how to fix a specific issue, or the optimal tire pressure for your wheels, our volunteers are happy to provide answers and support.
Join us in DIY mode and discover the joy of fixing your own bike with expert guidance.
Volunteer-Assisted Repair:
If you prefer, one of our volunteers can work on your bike. You are not required to stay with your bike throughout the repair process, but please ensure you can pick it up before we close.
First Come, First Served
All bike repairs are done on a first come, first served basis for both DIY and volunteer-assisted modes. If we are particularly busy, we may ask you to come back another day.
Important Policies
Personal Use Only: We do not fix bikes intended for sale. Our services are for personal use only.
Condition of Bikes: If a bike is in too poor condition, or if our services are abused, our volunteers reserve the right to refuse repairs.
Respectful Conduct is Expected: We are committed to fostering a positive and inclusive environment for everyone. We expect all participants, volunteers, and visitors to treat one another with kindness, respect, and consideration. Any form of disrespectful or inappropriate behavior, including harassment, aggressive language, or disruptive actions, will not be tolerated. Let's work together to ensure our space remains welcoming and supportive for all.
No Overnight Bike Storage: We do not store customers' bikes overnight. Please ensure you take your bike with you after repairs or service by the closing time, as we cannot accommodate overnight storage.
We prioritize safety and performance over appearance: Our main focus is ensuring that each bike is safe and rides smoothly, even if it may not look brand new.
We aim to make bike maintenance accessible and educational for everyone. Your cooperation and understanding help us serve the community better.
Pick Your Bike
Affordable, Ready-to-Ride Bikes
Depending on our available inventory, we offer quality bikes for sale at very affordable prices. Each bike has been thoroughly checked by our experienced volunteers to ensure it’s ready for immediate use. While these bikes are used and may not be as durable as new ones, they are reliable and functional. Plus, you can bring your bike back to us for free repairs whenever needed.
Free Kid’s Bikes
We receive children’s bikes from the community, which we repair and give away for free. This initiative helps keep bikes out of landfills and puts them into the hands of kids who need them.
Learn to Ride
If you or your kid don’t know how to ride a bicycle, don't worry! We're here to help you get started. Whether you're a child or an adult, our supportive team will guide you through your first steps towards becoming a confident cyclist.
We understand that learning to ride a bike as an adult can take a bit more time. That's why we offer adult balance bikes—regular bikes without pedals. Using a balance bike helps you focus on mastering balance and steering without the added complexity of pedaling. You can borrow a balance bike home for several days. This way, you can practice at your own pace in a comfortable and familiar environment. Once you feel confident and ready, you can return the balance bike and transition to a traditional bike with pedals.
Community Events
We provide most of our services near or in our shop, but also run many remote events at: community centres, libraries, shelters, temporary housing locations, etc. We also support other community organizations by offering free bike tuning and minor repair services at their events.
These events help different communities around the KWC area get their bikes ready for new adventures.
