There’s no shame in paying the professionals to fix your bike – but you know what they say about teaching a man to fish. Next time you pop a flat, visit these do-it-yourself bicycle cooperatives and learn how to repair your bike yourself.
The Flat
Located on the McGill University campus, The Flat is a free bike collective, which offers a series of well-attended workshops, as well as access to tools and indispensable information. To wit: this article on buying a used bike. 3480 McTavish Rd., B02, [email protected].
Right to Move
This non-profit, started by the Quebec Public Interest Research Group at Concordia University, is open to members – not only students – and is known for its tri-annual bilingual workshop series. Membership $20/year. Usually: Weekdays 6 p.m. – 9 p.m., Weekends 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. Behind 1455 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W., 514-999-4885.
Mile End Bike Garage
Hipsters and artists fix their fixies at the Mile End Bike Garage, which offers tools and the guidance of a volunteer mechanic. Warning: You’ll have to carry your bike up a flight of stairs. Membership $5/month. Tuesday – Thursday 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. 135 Van Horne Ave., second floor. [email protected]
SantroVélo
SantroVélo is one of Santropol Roulant’s many world-improving projects. (The organization offers a Meals on Wheels service, a rooftop garden project and more.) Open just a couple days a week, the co-op offers tools and affordable second-hand parts. Membership $15/summer, or $5/visit. Mondays 5 p.m. – 8 p.m., Saturdays 1:30 p.m. – 5 p.m. 4050 St. Urbain St., 514-284-9335.
Image courtesy of xddorox.
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