Bike Farm is a non-profit volunteer run bicycle maintenance collective.
We’re all volunteers. We all love bikes. Four days a week, we open the shop and our tools to the public so everyone can learn the beauty of working on their own bike.
Just about everything in the shop is donated, so we may not have exactly what you’re looking for, but we can usually make it work. We operate on a membership basis, but if you can’t afford a membership we have an hourly rate and work-trade options too (see member-ship FAQ below).
Who’s in charge here anyway?
We operate Bike Farm collectively. That means YOU can be a part of how decisions are made and things get done! If you’re looking for someone who identifies as a volunteer, just ask.
How does it work?
Because Bike Farm is non-profit we are able to accept donations and give a tax-write-off. We turn the donations into usable parts for functioning bicycles. Our space is solely funded by public donations.
What should I expect when I come to the shop?
We will greet with greasy arms and an open tool board. We will ask you to sign in with your name, what you’re working on, and your bike’s serial number. Next a helpful mechanic will guide you through the process of examining and working on your bike. Before you leave you have the option of buying a membership, paying at an hourly rate, or volunteering your time. We don’t give parts away for free, but won’t turn people away for stand time if they don’t have the funds.
Are you a bike store?
No, for a number of reasons. We DO NOT do repairs for people. Instead, we will guide you through your own repairs. We are not a retail shop, but we offer (for a small fee) used and some new parts for people fixing their bikes. Sometimes we have a bike or two ready to ride out the door. Our prices are based on the time put into it and the bike’s quality.
I came by during business hours and Bike Farm was closed. Why?
Because the organization is run by volunteers, it is difficult at times to keep the schedule full. We all do the best we can, and Bike Farm greatly appreciates all of our amazing volunteers. If there are not at least two people available to volunteer for a shift, we close the shop. We appreciate your understanding! And remember, everyone is more than welcome to volunteer to make sure the shop is open as much as possible.
How much is membership?
Membership entitles you to full use of shop space and a professional set of tools with the assistance of a mechanic DURING OPEN HOURS. It also entitles you to some free classes.
- Drop-in rate: $5.00 per hour (no membership required)
- One Month Membership: $20.00
- Six Month Membership: $35.00
- One Year Membership: $60.00
Work-trade, baked goods, frosty beverages, and other creative donations are welcome.
What if I don’t have the money?
We will find a way to work it out. If you do some volunteer work for us, we’ll give you stand time to work on your bike in return.
How can I volunteer?
Just send an e-mail to volunteer@bikefarm.org. You can also just come to one of our bi-weekly meetings. They happen every other Tuesday at 7PM at Bike Farm. Check out our calendar for details.