The Ogden Bicycle Collective focuses on providing inexpensive options for repairing and purchasing bikes to those in the Ogden community. The non-profit organization has recently come under the direction of Clint Watson who is the organization’s first paid director.
“Our goal is to give people many different routes they can use to obtain and maintain a bike,” Watson explained. “We believe that bikes are the heart of alternative transportation.”
Watson has been involved in similar organizations in both Boise, Idaho and Salt Lake City. His efforts are now focused on the Ogden Bicycle Collective. Watson hopes to officially open up the collective during May 2015.
Once it is open the shop will offer bikes to be purchased for around $100 and up. All the bicycles are refurbished donations from people in the community.
Bikes that are donated will be used in one of two ways. “If the bike is in good condition, we will refurbish it and sell it in the shop,” Watson explained. “If the bike isn’t able to refurbished then we will use it for parts.”
The parts that are collected from donations will be used in the DIY stations the shop will offer. DIY stations will be available for those who want to repair their bikes themselves. Each station is equipped with the tools and parts necessary for bike repairs.
Those using the DIY stations will also have access to a bicycle mechanic. The mechanics are mostly made up of volunteers and are available to help during every step of the repair process.
“I really love what this program does for the community and for the kids,” said Mark Strom, a volunteer who is helping to prepare the shop for opening day.
Another feature the organization will offer is instructional classes on how to become a bicycle mechanic. The programs will begin with the basics and work up to the more difficult areas of bicycle repair.
“We are also hoping to implement some classes about bike safety and commuting,” said Watson. “The classes will basically be like driver’s ed but for bikes.”
The Ogden Bicycle Collective will also offer programs to the community throughout the year. One of these is a 12-week program for children that will teach them how to be bicycle mechanics. At the end of the program they will earn a certificate and a bike to keep.
“This year we have a goal to give 500 bikes to kids in the community,” Watson said.
Beginning on April 15 the Ogden Bicycle Collective will offer some temporary hours to the community. On Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 5-9 p.m. and Saturdays from 12-5 p.m. the collective will be open for members of the community to stop by and work on their bikes at the DIY stations.
On Thursdays from 6-8 p.m. the shop will be open for volunteers who want to stop by and help out. These times will come into effect on April 14 and the Ogden community is encouraged to attend.
Watson said that anyone who is wanting to learn to become a bike mechanic can volunteer at the organization, “For those wanting to learn, volunteering at a place like this is the way to do it.”
The organization will be holding their fourth annual Bike Swap on May 2 from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. The event will feature an opportunity for members of the community to buy and sell their equipment while connecting with other cyclists.
For more information on volunteering, donating or the organization visit their website or contact Clint Watson directly via email at [email protected].
