Free Ride is not a traditional repair shop, where you drop off a bike and someone fixes it, but a bicycle educational facility. There is that old saying "if you give a person a fish they will eat for one day but if you teach them how to fish they will eat for a lifetime." That is our basic philosophy at Free Ride!

Please note that during the busy summer months, there may be a wait for access to tools and workspace.  Just be patient, and maybe lend a hand! 

DIY Repair

We won't fix your bike for you, but teach you how to "do-it-yourself"

At Free Ride! you will find tools, repair manuals, bicycle parts, and skilled mechanics to help you repair and learn about the  bicycle. It is helpful to be familiar with tools and how they work, but not necessary. During our open shop hours, you can bring in your bike, and skilled volunteers will help you diagnose any problems that you may be experiencing. All children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult that will work on their bike with them.

We ask that those who benefit from Free Ride also give back to the project. Access to shop tools and facilities is free to all. However, if you are assisted by a volunteer, we ask that you give back an equal amount of volunter time, or arrange another way to contribute to Free Ride. If you need to replace something on your bike, it is likely that we will have a used part that will do the trick. You can then "pay" for this part either by volunteering or giving monetary donation during the session.  So make sure to leave enough time to volunteer around the shop, or bring some cash. 

Learn through Volunteering

Repairing your own bike is not the only way that you can learn bicycle mechanics. Many people volunteer to fix Free Ride! bikes. These volunteers are paired with a skilled mechanic and together they repair a bike.

Bike Mechanics Classes

<>We also offer beginner's Adult Basic Bike Mechanics classes.

Here's a description of the course:

The course is six weeks, giving each student 12 hours of class time.  In the class, students will help repair and recycle bikes for our shop. 

Each session has two class times:
A: 5 pm - 7 pm
B: 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm


Adult Basic Bike Mechanics Classes
Schedule 2008


Session I
Week 1 - Sunday, March 30th
Week 2 - Sunday, April 6th
Week 3 - Sunday, April 13th
Week 4 - Sunday, April 20th
Week 5 - Sunday, April 27th
Week 6 - Sunday, May 4th


Session II
Week 1 - Sunday, May 11th
Week 2 - Sunday, May 18th
Week 3 - Sunday, May 25th
Week 4 - Sunday, June 1st
Week 5 - Sunday, June 8th
Week 6 - Sunday, June 15th

Registration starts April 19th

Session III
Week 1 - Sunday, June 22nd
Week 2 - Sunday, June 29th
Week 3 - Sunday, July 6th
Week 4 - Sunday, July 13th
Week 5 - Sunday, July 20th
Week 6 - Sunday, July 27th

Registration starts May 31st


Session IV
Week 1 - Sunday, August 3rd
Week 2 - Sunday, August 10th
Week 3 - Sunday, August 17th
Week 4 - Sunday, August 24th
Week 5 - Sunday, August 31st
Week 6 - Sunday, September 7th

Registration starts July 12th


Session V
Week 1 - Sunday, September 7th
Week 2 - Sunday, Septemver 14th
Week 3 - Sunday, September 21st
Week 4 - Sunday, September 28th
Week 5 - Sunday, October 5th
Week 6 - Sunday, October 12th

Registration starts August 16th


The course is designed to give students the basic knowledge that they need to move onto more complex repairs and systems.  Since each class builds off of the previous one, it is recommended that you attend every class.

Bring yourself, a willingness to learn, and a pen and paper if you want to take notes.  You may also bring in your own bicycle to work on (it’s a good chance to tune it up), but your bicycle must be similar to the course material (simply ask the instructor).

Cost is $60 for all 6 classes (paid in the first class).

*IMPORTANT* Class size is limited (and usually fills up), so you MUST RSVP to be enrolled.

It's first come first serve.  Also, since class size is limited, serious inquiries only.  Basically, don't sign up if you're not going to come.

To Register
please email classes@bike-pgh.org (preferred) on or after the registration date or call 412-731-4094

Please include:
1. Name
2. Phone Number
3. Preferred email address for correspondence
4. Session and class time that you prefer