 "Photo: Chi Brown")
While the economy continues to place a strain on commuters, Sunday afternoons at the ReCYCLEry in Carrboro have people looking to make cycling an option when venturing out on the town.
It’s a bicycle shop unlike any other in town.
The not-for-profit organization teaches anyone how to maintain their own bicycle, fix one up for themselves, or donate one for a good cause.
Each year, the non-profit gives away about 100 bikes.
“People come in, volunteer with the ReCYCLEry for 15 hours and in the process of learning bike mechanics, they earn one of our bicycles,” said Chris Richmond, the ReCYCLEry’s director.
The ReCYCLEry’s repair classes are held on Mondays from Spring to Fall and inspire riders to share knowledge with other cyclists.
Over the last nine years, the ReCYCLEry has had to move three times. But once again, it will need to find a new location by December.
“It’s a pretty well-used resource so we need a space so we can focus on programming to boost ridership around Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and the Triangle,” said Richmond.
“Everywhere else, you take your bike to be fixed and you drop it off like you would if you were dropping off your dry cleaning. At the ReCYCLEry you’re there hands-on, learning about the bike.”
Be the first to comment on this article! Log in to Comment
You must be logged in to comment on an article. Not already a member? Register now