Our Programs

The South Bend Bike Garage exists to make cycling accessible, affordable, and empowering for everyone in our community. Our programs focus on practical skills, meaningful opportunities, and meeting people where they are, whether that’s in our shop, at schools, or out in the neighborhoods.

Below are the core programs that bring our mission to life.

Mobile Bike Garage

Bringing bike repair, education, and support directly into the community.

The Mobile Bike Garage is our outreach program that takes tools, volunteers, and supplies on the road to support local events, neighborhoods, schools, and community partners.

We provide:

On-site bicycle repairs and safety checks
Flat fixes, simple adjustments, and education
Bike safety lessons
Learn to ride clinic
Group rides on local trails
Free helmets and gear when available
Bike valet services

This program helps us reach people who might never make it to the shop and builds a more connected cycling community in South Bend.

Junior Mechanics

Our Junior Mechanic Program introduces young people to bicycle maintenance in a structured, supportive environment.

Participants learn:

Basic repair skills
How to diagnose common issues
Tool use and shop etiquette
Problem-solving and teamwork

The program is taught by experienced educators and volunteers, giving students practical skills and the confidence to work on their own bikes.

Riding For Focus

Riding for Focus is a school-based youth cycling program created by Outride that uses bicycles to improve students’ focus, confidence, and overall well-being. Through a structured curriculum, students learn safe riding skills, bike handling, basic maintenance, and healthy habits, all while having fun and getting active.

The program provides:

A fleet of bikes and helmets for participating students
A complete, ready-to-teach cycling curriculum
Skills in safe riding, bike handling, and basic maintenance
A supportive, confidence-building environment for all ability levels

By partnering with local educators, we help bring this research-backed program to South Bend youth—giving them the tools to ride confidently and discover the joy and freedom that come with being on a bike.

Earn-A-Bike

Currently on pause as we prepare a stronger, updated version of the program.

Our Earn-a-Bike program has helped many individuals gain access to reliable transportation by volunteering in the shop, learning basic repair skills, and earning a refurbished bicycle. We’re currently taking time to revamp and relaunch the program so it can better serve participants, support our volunteers, and meet growing community demand.

While the program is paused, we’re working on:

Updating the curriculum and skill progression
Improving the volunteer experience
Streamlining the process for participants
Ensuring we can support demand sustainably

We’re excited to bring back a refreshed Earn-a-Bike program soon. Stay tuned for updates on the relaunch.