Many university students depend on bicycles to get around, so they need their two-wheel mode of transportation to be in good working order.
The Central Student Association at the University of Guelph understood this a bunch of years ago, when it decided to start The Bike Centre on campus.
For nearly 15 years, the shop has been open to all cyclists in Guelph, not just those on campus. Each year it is used by hundreds of bicycle owners looking to keep their bikes well tuned and in good repair.
The repair shop has moved around on campus, but for several years it has been ensconced in a workshop space at 620 Gordon Street. It’s well-stocked in replacement parts, has several bike repair stands, three staff members and about 25 volunteers ready to help show you how to keep your ride rideable.
This Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., The Bike Centre will host a silent auction in the University Centre’s indoor courtyard, offering bikes of all kinds to the highest bidder.
Sofia Becerra, the centre’s central coordinator said most of the bikes have basically been rebuilt by volunteers from frames and parts that are often donated to the shop. They have been working throughout the winter putting the bikes together.
While there aren’t any high-end road or mountain bikes among them, they will all provide dependable transportation on a budget.
Becerra said the shop is strictly a do-it-yourself operation. Volunteers and staff will help you if you need help, and will show you where to find the parts and tools you need. But for as long as it’s been around, The Bike Centre has been about imparting DIY skills.
“It is very well used,” she said. “People are coming in throughout the winter, and it’s very busy in the summer.”
The shop also serves as a community space, a hub for sharing information and knowledge, and developing friendships, she added. “People really enjoy being here.”
Because the winter is a quieter time for the centre, volunteers have more time to build and repair bikes for the auction, which could raise up to $1,000 for the shop.
Just as anyone in the greater community is welcome to use the shop for free – although donations are always welcome - anyone can bid on the bikes in the auction.
Also on Wednesday, the shop will host a workshop on how to work on your bike's bottom bracket. It starts at 6 p.m.
