About
From a Campfire to a Professional Garage
South Bend Bike Garage began with the passion and generosity of Zach and Holly, a couple from Bloomington, Indiana, who temporarily called South Bend home. Inspired by the community-focused bicycle cooperative in their hometown, they believed South Bend deserved something similar. So, they set up shop in a modest building on the Near Northwest side, at the corner of Portage Avenue and California Avenue. With a handful of dedicated volunteers, they worked tirelessly often without heat or air conditioning repairing bikes for neighbors while huddling around a campfire in the winter.
When Zach and Holly moved on, they passed the torch to Dustin and Colleen. Under their leadership, the Bike Garage continued to grow, eventually outgrowing its original space. In partnership with Holy Cross, the organization relocated to the former St. Joe High School building at 933 and Angela Boulevard. This new location offered the chance to build a fully stocked, professional garage equipped with Park Tool stands, an extensive inventory of parts, and enough space to support a growing community of cyclists.
To reach even more people, South Bend Bike Garage expanded with a mobile truck and trailer, making it possible to bring bike repair and education to events throughout the area. You’ll often see the trailer parked at local gatherings, where volunteers provide free tune-ups and teach essential maintenance skills.
The organization has also secured and implemented grants through programs like Riding for Focus and the Outride Foundation, which promote youth cycling and education.
In 2024, South Bend Bike Garage launched Rollout Rides fun, inclusive group rides open to all ages, abilities, and bike types. These rides offer a chance to explore the area, meet new people, and enjoy cycling in a supportive, social setting.
In 2025, the organization relocated again this time to a new home in downtown South Bend at 119 West Wayne Street. The space required major renovation, and the team is hard at work transforming it into the next chapter of the Bike Garage’s story.
South Bend on Two Wheels: Vibrant, Connected, and Strong.
Our Mission
We make cycling accessible to all by offering affordable bikes, repairs, education, and events. Through hands-on learning and community rides, we help individuals and families gain the skills to maintain their bikes, while creating opportunities for transportation, health, and connection.
Our Vision
A thriving, inclusive cycling community where everyone no matter their background or income has access to safe, reliable bikes. We promote a culture of cycling that fosters health, independence, and community, empowering people with the skills and confidence to ride and maintain their own bikes.