The Community Cycling Center was founded as an education center almost 30 years ago to help build a vibrant community where people of all backgrounds use bicycles to stay healthy and connected. We have seen a lot of change in Portland since our inception but our love of bikes and the people who ride them hasn’t […]
It’s been three years since the Community Cycling Center (CCC) has been able to host our annual Transportation Trivia event in-person due to Covid and we came back stronger than ever! This year’s event was our largest and most successful trivia night to-date, raising $41,000 to broaden access to bicycling and its benefits! This year […]
Camp season is here and our youth programs team just wrapped-up their second week of Community Camp in Cully! The weeks were full of neighborhood bike rides, snacks, games, parks, more snacks, and more bike rides. Some of the campers had even attended our Learn To Ride event the week before and were riding along […]
If you’ve been by the bike shop sometime in the past two decades, chances are you’ve seen Carl! He does a lot of different things around the shop but he’s probably best known for holding court every Sunday at the Salvage Sale where he helps people make use of the discarded bits and bobs often […]
Today we are excited to announce the unionization of the Community Cycling Center(CCC). After a super majority of workers requested voluntary recognition of their chosen union, ILWU Local 5, the Board of Directors and Leadership of the Community Cycling Center took quick and decisive action to recognize the union by a unanimous vote in approval […]
Ever since our founding in 1994, providing support for people that need it has been an integral part to our mission of making bikes more accessible. As the neighborhood surrounding our bike shop transformed to affluence, the shop’s role in the organization changed too. Before, it was the center. It was the sole place to […]
We are so grateful to be rounding out this year with such an incredible staff and community of supporters. Thank you for joining us for the ride! It’s been a while since we’ve taken a staff photo together so we figured the unveiling of our first billboard would be a good occasion for one. Almost […]
Anyone who has ridden a bike knows how hungry this activity can make you. Without this basic need met, riders cannot explore our cities, get to work or connect with our community. Our partnership with the Tillamook County Creamery Association (TCCA) highlights the importance of food within the context of community organizing and youth programs. […]
As we get closer to the perfect fall weather so many Portlanders enjoy riding in, we thought this would be a good time to tell you more about our bike shop’s program that keeps hundreds of Portlanders riding year-round, regardless of income. Here’s a great story from our awesome retail staffer LB about the program […]
Thank you to everyone who made the 3rd Annual Bike Scavenger Hunt a huge success! Over 100 riders took on the 15-clue-challenge; leading them all over the city and learning some odd bits of Portland history along the way. Everyone we’ve heard from had an absolute blast and we were so pleased that so many […]
The Portland Bureau of Transportation(PBOT) and the Community Cycling Center have been close collaborators, programmatic partners and friends for many years. PBOT’s work to expand access to transportation options and improve the experience of traveling around Portland aligns with our values as a non-profit dedicated to dismantling barriers to cycling. That alignment has created a […]
Now is a great time to get involved! With events and programs in full swing, we have a handful of new and exciting opportunities for folks who are ready to plug-in and invest in their community by sharing their time and skills. Interested? Let’s get in touch! Scavenger Hunt After Party : We need two […]
We are thrilled to announce the completion of our 2022 Impact Report! We took a deep dive into the past year to tally our accomplishments, acknowledge some of our struggles, and celebrate them all. Through a combination of staff/participant stories and quantitative data, we’re able to summarize where we are at as an organization. This […]
Welcome to a day of Bike Club at Menlo Park Elementary School! We first meet in the cafeteria with all the other students participating in after-school programs. This is also time for snack #1 of the day. Stoke levels are at 100% This is sung to the tune of “Oh My Darling Clementine” […]
We’re currently teaching bicycle mechanics in two schools this Spring Term– Helensview and Alliance Highschool at Meek. We just started working with Meek this winter and they’ve been nothing but great to collaborate with! Many students are returning students from Winter Term which means that they’ll get to keep practicing the skills they’ve learned the […]
We are thrilled to announce that we’ve reached our fundraising goal for no-cost Community Camps. Thank you to Castelli , Sportful , and hundreds of individual supporters for contributions that totaled 15K! What makes this even sweeter is a 15K match from Outride! Our Community Camps offer a safe environment to play, take risks, develop […]
Spring Break Mini Camp with Rose CDC was a huge success this year! A total of 10 kids attended the 4-day program filled with lots of games outside, bike riding, and even bowling. Many of these students have joined us for programming before so many of our instructors were excited to have the chance to […]
You might remember Nina from almost a year ago when we posted an interview with her on our blog. Well, we’re back, and pleased to say she completed her 540 hour apprenticeship with us at the bike shop! 540 hours! We are all incredibly proud of her. Nina lives in the New Columbia community […]
Written by Nat Shreffler Bike club at Menlo Elementary was made extra special this past fall thanks to two new learners, Franklin and Adrian. We typically start a club with participants who already know how to ride–this allows us to get rolling and ride and roads to fun destinations. This fall was a reminder that […]
Thank You!!! Throughout the last three months, workplaces, corporations, and hundreds of individuals have come together and raised more than $162,316 for the Community Cycling Center’s mission of broadening access to bikes and their benefits. We are incredibly grateful for your support! Moreso, we’re continually reminded of how meaningful our work is when we’re […]
Written by Natty Pillias Fun! Neighborhood exploration! The opportunity to earn a bike! The Community Cycling Center’s Bike Club program is just that! We not only have a shop — we also offer an after school Bike Club program developed and run by the programs department of Community Cycling Center(CCC). This past fall, with the […]
It has been two years since the Community Cycling Center (CCC) has been able to host its annual Holiday Bike Drive event at Legacy Emanuel Hospital. Before COVID-19 times, CCC worked with various community partners to identify children in need of bicycles, and Trauma Nurses Talk Tough would order brand new helmets so children remain safe in […]
Written by Natty, Safe Routes To School Coordinator Community Camps are officially done until next summer. Let’s take a look back at some of this year’s highlights! The Community Cycling Center held a 100% free Community Camp for three different communities connected to three different partners: Rose CDC, Cesar Chavez school and Urban Nature Partners […]
Written by William Francis – Safe Routes to School Coordinator We are writing to celebrate over a year of close collaboration with Living Cully! We’ve been working together with volunteers to deliver food out of the NE Emergency Food Program (NEFP) to approximately 180 families in the Cully neighborhood every week. Living Cully specializes in […]
The Community Cycling Center is happy to announce our new Development Director, Efrain Duarte! Efrain is a native Texan who has over six years of fundraising experience in the non-profit world, and has worked with social service, education, and most recently a performing arts organization. Along with his non-profit experience, Efrain has served on boards […]
Did you know that the shop hosts an apprentice every year? Since 2017, we’ve been able to provide this opportunity to youth from our various partner communities. The intent of this program is to provide experience and industry connections for young people who are seriously considering a career in the cycling industry — a foot […]
It is our pleasure to introduce Momoko Saunders as Executive Director of Community Cycling Center. Momoko has worked in Portland’s bicycle industry for 13 years. She comes to us most recently as the General Manager for Biketown (Portland’s bike share program) and as a co-founder of the beloved Bike Farm. Her experience running bicycle organizations […]
Written by Gwen, Shop General Manager – As you may have noticed, our shop has been closed for a few days here and there over the course of the past few months. Since we will continue to experience sporadic closures to help keep our staff and community safe, we wanted to be as transparent as […]
The Masked Matt A. with a huge load of Community Bikes out for delivery! The Community Cycling Center’s Holiday Bike Drive is well known in Portland for providing hundreds of children who face numerous social barriers with free bicycles every winter. Each bike is paired with a helmet through Trauma Nurses Talk Tough and tuned […]
On Wednesday, November 13th, we plan to testify at City Hall about proposed changes to Portland’s bike parking code. We would love to see you there, also testifying, or just showing up in support! This is the first full revision of the city requirements since 1996. At that time, the citywide percentage of […]
Since 2015, the Community Cycling Center has been teaching “Bike Mechanics as STEM Education” in two alternative secondary schools: Helensview and Rosemary Anderson/POIC New Columbia. In keeping with our long history of using bikes and bike mechanics as a tool for empowerment and a vehicle for change, this program was designed to bring multiple benefits […]
The Oregon Public House (700 NE Dekum, Portland) bills itself as “The World’s First Not-for-Profit Pub.” The community gathering space, which opened in 2010 just a few minutes by bike from the Cycling Center, pays its staff a living wage and then gives all of its profits to community organizations. WOW! The way it organizes […]
We are excited to announce that Bike Camp will be integrating weekly themes into our camps this summer! Start building up your costume collection, so you can sport your interpretation of each week’s theme. Remember dangly items aren’t necessarily the safest while riding bikes, and an excess of clothing, although fun, could be very hot. […]
Now introducing a place for our avid high school cyclists! Voyagers, as the name implies, will travel far distances as they challenge themselves to boldly go where no camp has gone before. They’ll navigate downtown Portland, gaining confidence riding with traffic and communicating with other road users. Voyagers will learn about various types of multi-day […]
The Community Cycling Center is an organization that values both summer camp and education, and we recognize that our campers have varying schedules and circumstances. Portland Public School’s recent schedule update in response to making up this years snow days has created a conflict with our first two days of camp, June 10th and 11th. […]
Every now and then we get a really special bike donated… and we have one right now! This Renovo bike was custom-made here in Portland and was barely ridden — it hung as decoration in the showroom at Rejuvenation, a store specializing in beautiful things made out of wood. And it’s definitely beautiful! Now it is ours, […]
When my family immigrated to the United States, my parents were forced to navigate virtually every facet of our new life in America in an unfamiliar language and an unfamiliar place. We were not in Iran anymore, and the chaotic sounds of war were replaced with the urban landscape of Cleveland. This meant, for the […]
Our biggest and most magical event of the year is coming up soon, on Sunday, December 2nd. Hundreds of kids from families with low incomes will get to choose a bike to take home, and the smiles will light up the room. We have a few slots still available for volunteers to help with […]
What’s the best part of Fall–that crunch of many piled leaves under your bike tire, the cool crisp bite of wind blowing in your face, or that pumpkin spice latte you’re carrying in your water bottle cage? Whatever it is, don’t neglect one of the greatest seasons for riding your bike. Pull out your scarves […]
Hosting interns is part of our effort to provide meaningful learning opportunities for youth, and to make the cycling community more diverse and welcoming. This Summer the Community Cycling Center hosted eight wonderful interns from three different programs! Our largest contingent of five interns came from the SummerWorks program, which aims to place diverse youth […]
As you probably are already aware, the current federal administration recently imposed tariffs (taxes on imports) on certain goods coming to the United States from China. Unfortunately (but predictably) some of the goods in question go into the making of items that we carry at our bike shop. As we move into the 2019 season, […]
The Cycling Center has five recommendations for you this election season: 1. Vote! Wherever you are, and whatever you believe, please make your voice heard! Important issues and contested races are on the ballot in Oregon and elsewhere, and we urge everyone who is eligible to participate by casting a ballot. If you are in Oregon, […]
Waking up early can be hard, but once you are out the door, and particularly when you choose to walk or bike, the experience quickly starts trending towards the positive. Beautiful weather doesn’t hurt either. This past Wednesday, October 10th was a prime example as the community turned out in impressive numbers for International Walk […]
In order to meet our goals of preparing over 350 bikes to give away at the Holiday Bike Drive in December, we need more volunteers! Are you free on Tuesday nights to help prepare for the most magical day of the year? Our main entry-level volunteer shifts are Tuesday nights, 7-9pm at the shop at […]
TriMet has new money from a new tax and is deciding how to spend it. Our friends at #OPAL Environmental Justice Oregon and Youth Transit Justice Alliance (YEJA) are requesting adequate funding for YouthPass and for senior and disabled transit services. Please support them by signing a petition here! To find out more about the situation, read […]
The days are getting shorter, the air feels crisp, and there’s more rain in the forecast. Our shop has your back, and your toes, and your fingers. We have a full selection of fenders, lights, gloves and rain gear available, and last year’s remaining stock of Shower’s Pass rain gear is on sale! Please also note that we […]
Many of you have bikes or parts to donate but don’t live near our shop on NE Alberta. Is there an REI location closer to your home? Then you’re in luck! On Saturday, October 6th, from 10am to 3pm, Cycling Center volunteers will be collecting donated bikes and parts at the REI locations in Tualatin, […]
Five staff members and twelve volunteers had a great time riding and working around eastern Oregon September 8th – 15th on the “Cycle Oregon Classic” ride. The week-long adventure travels a different route in rural Oregon each year, exploring the many beautiful parts of this state and bringing money and guests to rural communities. The Community Cycling Center […]
Please join us in welcoming Craig Fondren as our new Community Programs Manager. Mr. Fondren has deep roots in Northeast Portland, having spent many years focused on housing and urban development in the area. He worked at the Sabin Community Development Corporation from 1999 – 2013, which is the neighborhood organization working to keep inner […]
OTTOLOCK is a new cinch lock ideal for people who find a U-Lock too clunky to warrant bringing along for a short trip inside a cafe or corner store. While OTTOLOCKS aren’t a good option for all day use, they are secure enough that we’d recommend them to people looking for protection against theft opportunists. It’s more […]
Please join the Community Cycling Center and Oregon Walks on Wednesday, September 5th at the Lagunitas Community Room (237 NE Broadway) for a benefit trivia night and put your knowledge to the test. Doors @ 5:30, Trivia starts @ 6:00. This evening will be dedicated to all of the local, national, and even international transportation […]
by Tyler Pell While much of our customer base may not know it, each fall, the Cycling Center effectively runs out of bikes to sell. Not that our inventory is wiped clean, but our supply of affordably-priced utilitarian commuter bikes — the shop’s bread and butter — effectively runs dry. It’s a tradition we dread, […]
by Maddeline McGraw Bike Camp is in full swing this summer with just a couple weeks left to ride! Portlanders may have spotted troves of children taking over the streets of Northeast to East Portland, Sellwood, and beyond. They’ve been rolling by friendly neighbors’ houses, checking in at local Parks, and feeding all the goats […]
by Jude Perez On a grey and chilly March morning, the staff of the Community Cycling Center received an email that would leave us smiling from ear to ear. Elijah Shulman, a student at Northwest Academy, wrote to us with the most unexpected, but amazing, news of his decision to ride his bike 1,650 miles […]
The Community Cycling Center is appalled by the administration’s current policy of separating children from their parents. Separating children from their parents fits the United Nations definition of genocide. Although we know that America has a long history of doing just that to black, brown, and immigrant children (through slavery, Native American boarding schools, and […]
We launched a new partnership this spring with a new organization! For six weeks this year, six girls participated in an after-school “Become a Bike Mechanic” camp with an all-female instructor team. Girls Build has an overall focus on teaching girls hands-on skills and letting them know that jobs in the trades are a possibility for them. We […]
The 2018 Season of the HUB is up and running! The first day of “business” was May 2nd, and a grand opening party with music and burgers was held on Saturday, May 19th. The HUB is a free, convenient neighborhood bike repair spot for the residents of the Portsmouth neighborhood, specifically the New Columbia housing […]
There has been a lot of change at the Cycling Center in the past 15 years. The one constant? Long-time mechanic Carl Wilson. On Sunday, May 27, Carl — who started at the Cycling Center on that date in 2003 — was surprised by a host of current and former CCC employees (who were all […]
Post written by Tyler Pell Matt Aranez comes to the Cycling Center after holding a similar position at Catholic Charities in Utah – a refugee resettlement agency – where he coordinated a massive volunteer mentor program for immigrant and refugee youth going through resettlement. Matt is eager to bridge his passions for helping people find […]
This post comes from Hanna Davis, our recent Volunteer & Events Manager. Wow! What a year for volunteers at the Community Cycling Center! Our volunteer appreciation party recently welcomed nearly 70 guests to the Lagunitas Community Room to celebrate our work with food, drinks, and a raffle. What’s more, we got the face time we […]
In honor of National Robotics Week, here is a shareworthy recap from the Fall 2017 eBike STEM high school class, written by student Karthik Sreedhar. The class was a partnership between the Lake Monsters Robotics program and the Community Cycling Center, made possible thanks to Chuck Brabenac and the Intel Encore Fellowship program. My interest […]
Just in time for springtime riding, we are offering 10% off of all new retail accessories with the purchase of a bicycle at our shop! When you buy a new–or new-to-you–bicycle, you can stock up on a new helmet, lock, lights, and racks, to name a few items. And we all know that a bike […]
In an increasingly digital world, St. Velotine’s Day is our emerging tradition celebrating all-analog affection. Next Wednesday, February 14th, the Cycling Center will be using our bike shop as a one-day pop-up couriering agency dedicated to appreciation and positive community spirit. Now through February 14th at 12:00pm*, you can stop in at our bike shop and […]
For many, the bicycle is more than just a transportation mode—it is a tool for building community power. This Sunday, Hollywood Theatre will screen a film about an LA-based womxn’s collective who use the bicycle as an organizing tool. The film “Ovarian Psycos” rides along with the Ovas, exploring the impact of the group’s activism, […]
On Sunday, February 11th, regardless of the weather, thousands of fun-loving cyclists will grab their friends, don their costumes, and gather to join the Worst Day of the Year Ride. Riders choose between 4, 15, or 42 mile routes–all with spectacular rest stops featuring yummy treats and warm beverages. After scoffing at the elements, participants […]
In fall of 2017, an AWS Elemental team gathered to build bikes for the Cycling Center’s Holiday Bike Drive, an annual event during which more than 400 children receive their first bicycle. Following is a recount from AWS Elemental Community Ambassador Emily Barrett. Could you describe what happened at Elemental’s most recent bike build? Most […]
Here’s the word from Executive Director Kasandra Griffin: “To many, the Holiday Bike Drive looks like the day in which over 400 children get a bike. But for me, the Holiday Bike Drive looks like the first day of a lifelong relationship with bicycles for over 400 children. It is a big, beautiful idea, and […]
UPDATE: Ticket sales have been extended through October 6th, thanks to our friends at the Trail Blazers! The Trail Blazers and the Community Cycling Center are pairing up for a fun night of basketball at this year’s #BlazersBikeNight on October 28th. Please make the night complete by joining us as they take on the Phoenix […]
Cycle Oregon has announced that they have cancelled the 2017 Classic due to wildfires. We can only imagine how difficult the decision was for the Cycle Oregon team and admire that they have prioritized safety. The development of this summer’s fires have had significant impacts on communities throughout Oregon, most particularly in central and southern […]
If you have been to our bike shop on 17th and NE Alberta St., you may have seen Cole Lalomia behind the counter. Like many of the Cycling Center’s bike mechanics, Cole is not only adept at fixing bikes, but also volunteers in the community to make it a more welcoming place. Cole is a […]
It was a love affair on Saturday, July 22nd. One hundred thirty-two lonely bicycles found their match in the form of overjoyed children anxious for their first ride. There were many countries and languages represented, but these bicycles transcended all barriers. No amount of economic or social disparity mattered on this Saturday. In turn, our […]
After a thoughtful and deliberative process involving representatives of our board, staff, and partner organizations, we are delighted to welcome our new Executive Director, Kasandra Griffin. In order to get to know her a bit better, we asked her to tell us about herself! Why did you choose to join the Community Cycling Center as […]
On May 20th, Andando en Bicicletas en Cully (ABC), Community Cycling Center, Bikes for Humanity, and The Street Trust came together for Beca de Bici 2017, a bicycle giveaway for children in the Cully neighborhood. Patty Otero, our Program Coordinator, shared a recap about the event. How did the bike giveaway come about? Bikes for […]
Just in time for National Bike Month, we are celebrating Team Tailwind, our growing crew of monthly donors who support the Community Cycling Center’s transformative work. Over the next several weeks, we will be highlighting a few Team Tailwind members. Thanks, Team! Who are you? What do you do/enjoy? I’m a retired pediatrician, but I […]
Just in time for National Bike Month, we are celebrating Team Tailwind, our growing crew of monthly donors who support the Community Cycling Center’s transformative work. Over the next several weeks, we will be highlighting a few Team Tailwind members. Thanks, Team! Who are you? What do you do/enjoy? We’re Jay and Alison Graves, and […]
Happy National Bike Month, everyone! Nothing begs for a bike ride like a sunny May day. We hope your May is already steeped in two-wheeled celebration, with more adventures in sight. And what better way to kick off National Bike Month (beyond a bike ride) than joining a team of folks supporting more people getting […]
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) curriculum can prove that there are multiple ways to learn and express oneself in academic settings. The Community Cycling Center’s emerging STEM Bike Mechanics program brings together physics concepts, job skills training, mentoring, and apprenticeship to ensure students achieve academic success, and feel prepared and supported after graduation. Through project-based, hands-on […]
What a season it has been! Thanks to a partnership with the Portland Trail Blazers and a lot of elbow grease and shoe leather from our volunteers, the Community Cycling Center has proven a go-getting machine for three 5050 Raffles to date. To wit: Our last Trail Blazers game was a huge success. Not only did the […]
What was once a hope has become a reality—the Bike Camp program is growing this summer to include East Portland! We will be partnering with SUN schools, such as Sacramento School, Shaver School, Prescott School and others to provide bike safety education for at least 84 kids from families living on low incomes. Kids will learn […]
Encouraging access to opportunities for all our communities in a way that ensures a healthy, equitable future for all is a cornerstone of our work here at the Community Cycling Center. We are daily grateful to our volunteers and community members whose efforts make our programs possible. We are also grateful to our coalition partners with whom we […]
Volunteers are an integral part of our community. From wrenching on bikes for Holiday Bike Drive to providing photography or graphic design expertise to our events, the Community Cycling Center’s volunteers keep the wheels of this organization moving forward. Some volunteer roles are visible in the community; some are behind the scenes. Today, we would […]
As Mychal Tetteh, former CEO, shared in his testimony for Inclusionary Housing just a few months ago, housing and transportation choice are inextricably linked. In the effort support access to opportunity for its community members, our friends and partners in the Cully area have been organizing around renter solidarity. You can join Living Cully and […]
We are fortunate to have Hanna Davis join our team this month! In order to get to know her better, we asked her a little about herself. Why did you choose to join the Community Cycling Center? I’ve been in the non-profit world here in Portland for about the last six years — and it […]
Next Tuesday, February 14th, is St. Velotine’s Day! We at the Community Cycling Center couldn’t imagine a better way of celebrating the bike love than offering our bike shop as a pop-up couriering agency dedicated to appreciation and positive community spirit. From February 7th until February 14th at 4:00pm, you can stop in our bike […]
Today, the nation celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life and legacy as a Day of Service—committing to building and strengthening our local communities. It’s a time to remember that hope, passion, community organizing, and the dream of a just world can create change. Individual actions matter. We at the Community Cycling Center would like to take […]
By Steph Routh, Communications & Marketing Manager This January and February, we’ll take $100 off the cost of a standard bike overhaul. It’s a great deal at a good time. Why? You may have noticed that it’s pretty chilly out there this week. I don’t know about you, but my garage has been downright cold. […]
With the new year comes exciting changes here at the Community Cycling Center. We are lucky to have Rebecca Channer join us as Interim CEO. In order to get to know her a bit better, we asked her to tell us about herself! Why did you choose to join the Community Cycling center as its […]
This morning, Portland City Council unanimously approved an inclusionary housing program for the city, in order to provide more affordable housing as market rate housing is developed. Community Cycling Center CEO Mychal Tetteh testified in favor of inclusionary housing at last week’s City Council hearing. Many thanks to our partners and friends at OPAL Environmental […]
It’s been two weeks since the Holiday Bike Drive, and the numbers and photos are in! On Sunday, December 4th, 411 kids picked their first bike, received a perfectly fitted helmet, and rode away with a great introduction as to what a bike can bring to their lives. For those of you who like the […]
John Guerrero is a student in Bike Mechanics STEM Class at Helensview High School. Students earn 4 credits in one semester of the class, which is taught by Helensview’s physics teacher, Dammes, and the Community Cycling Center’s Andrea Chiotti. After a Friday morning lesson about friction followed by a lesson in overhauling bike hubs, John […]
By Jake Schorr Bike camp registration is opening early this year so that you can give the gift of camp this holiday season. Winter is here, but all this rain has got the staff of the Community Cycling Center dreaming of bike-riding fun in the sun in Portland! We can’t wait to be out there […]
What an honor this has been. When I began my work at the Community Cycling Center in 2005, I was hired as a Retail Sales and Outreach Specialist. I earned $7 an hour and was barely qualified to sell innertubes. It was the only job I could get in a bicycle industry that often requires […]
You can satiate your sweet tooth and support a cause you love at the same time! For the entire month of December, proceeds of Congressman Earl Blumenauer’s Fruitcake Ice Cream at Salt & Straw benefit your friendly neighborhood Community Cycling Center. The exchanging of fruitcake is a long-standing tradition, and there’s never been a more infamous […]
By Mychal Tetteh You are not alone. We’re here, with and for you. At the Community Cycling Center, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the joy, freedom and health benefits of bicycling. This hopeful, open and abundant approach to our mission stands in stark contrast to the divisiveness we have recently […]
We are excited to be rolling right along with the 2016 Give!Guide launch today! The Give!Guide works to increase the number of young supporters of local nonprofits and their incredible work by creating a sense of philanthropy across the city. Or, as the guide’s website puts it, they “handpicked 141 of Portland’s most impactful nonprofits and […]
Portland is excited to debut its BIKETOWN for All program! The program will provide an opportunity for Portlanders living on low incomes to become members of BIKETOWN and pay with cash. It will also provide bike safety education and free helmets to BIKETOWN for All members. BIKETOWN for All is a partnership between the Community Cycling Center (CCC), the […]
By Patrick Loftus, Volunteer Manager Are you ready to say goodbye to that old Bridgestone that never quite fit you? Have your kids outgrown the coaster brakes and moved on to bigger and better things? Have you been meaning to donate a bicycle, but haven’t had the chance to get up to our shop on […]
How about this for some exciting news, shared just in time for Transportation Night? Yesterday, the Portland Trail Blazers announced the team’s five nonprofit community partners for the next two seasons. The Community Cycling Center is thrilled to be a community partner, along with four other incredible organizations! Mychal Tetteh, our CEO, shared his thoughts […]
By Jake Schorr Did you ride hard all summer? Is it time to give your bike some love? Give you and your bike a treat by learning to do repairs on it yourself! The rainy season is here, and with it returns our Bike Maintenance classes taught by our team of skilled mechanics. The first […]
By Qingyang Xie Intern “What I like the most is that I get to bike around all the time at camp.” This is the most common answer I heard when I asked our campers at scholarship camps what their favorite part of bike camp is. The scholarship camp is a unique opportunity for children from […]
By Katie Steele, Advocacy Intern For many Portland residents, even those who bus and bike to work on daily basis, justice in transportation is likely an abstract concept. The most obvious example is definitely accessibility to public transportation, but there is also affordable bike travel, safe and accessible pedestrian routes, and environmental safety for all […]
By Katie Steele, Advocacy Intern When jumping into Portland’s transportation advocacy scene, it’s easy to get lost in a sea of faces, acronyms, and agendas. It’s harder still to tease apart where these organizations lie in relation to one another, from the grassroots to the grasstops and even on to direct legislative involvement. When you […]
By Patrick Loftus, Volunteer & Events Manager The Community Cycling Center, whose mission is to broaden access to bicycling and its benefits, is headed to Cycle Oregon for another year. We need your help! As a volunteer you’d spend the day cleaning bikes and charging electronics through a solar powered trailer. When not cleaning bikes you’ll […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager A rowdy crowd joined us at Radio Room last night to test their knowledge of the world’s bike share systems at our 8th edition of Transportation Trivia. With your help, we set a brand new Transportation Trivia record and raised over $4,800 to support our new bicycle library program for underserved communities. Thank […]
For those of you who attended Gentrification is WEIRD! The Ride, you may remember the powerful poem that John Slaughter shared with us. Well, there is a longer piece of poetry that John would like to share with you. In the words of Laquida Landford, “I feel honored to have shared the community platform with these […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Over 50 people arrived at the Bike Repair Hub in New Columbia on a beautiful Saturday afternoon. Some people stopped by purely because they were curious about the large fleet of bikes glistening in the center of the Bike Skills Park. “I woke up this morning and my […]
Bike ride to heal the wounds of gentrification July 13, 2016 – Portland, Ore. – Gentrification is the major talking point of the city today — but for many communities here, it has been a reality for far too long. Activist, Laquida Landford partnered with Community Cycling Center and Ignorant/Reflections to create a bike ride […]
By Qingyang Xie, Communications Intern When it’s Bike Camp time in the summer, the mornings at our bike shop become quite busy. Kids flock to the back of our shop, eagerly looking for their new-found camp friends and decorating their camp “Pedal Passes” with sharpies and stamps. I was lucky enough to shadow the Girl […]
By Qingyang Xie, Communications Intern We’re very excited to announce that for the very first time, the Community Cycling Center is carrying new bikes in our bike shop! We proudly serve our community with a wide selection of affordable used bicycles, but the sizes and models of these bikes hinge on the availability of bike […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications Manager Bike Camp season kicked off last week, but it’s not too late to register your favorite child for a summer full of bike adventures. Take a look at our Bike Camp offerings to see if a week of riding in the sun could be the perfect summer plan for your […]
By Qingyang Xie, Communications Intern “Tim, can you come over? I can’t unscrew this part! Tim?” Royal, a third-grader, shouted out eagerly to one of our two bike mechanics, Tim and Carl, who run the New Columbia Bike Repair Hub on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons. It was an extra busy Wednesday with limited volunteer support. […]
Today is my last day at the Community Cycling Center. I’ve been honored and proud to serve the mission of the Community Cycling Center the past two years, and it’s been a blast to work with all its great volunteers and supporters. I’m moving on to accept a role as the Digital Director for the Democratic Party of […]
This summer, we celebrate the 4th anniversary of the Bike Repair Hub by doubling its open hours and debuting a Build-A-Bike program. Check out our new stop-motion video about the Bike Repair Hub and support our work through our Indiegogo campaign today. About the Bike Repair Hub In 2010, the Community Cycling Center asked neighbors […]
By Heidi Beierle, Volunteer Storyteller Excitement filled the Rosewood Initiative during Bikes for Kids with a formidable din that made any spoken language (and there were many) difficult to hear. Kids were excited. Adults. Volunteers. Staff. Donors. Bikes for Kids is the smaller, riding-season Holiday Bike Drive, this year occurring in May to coincide with […]
Yesterday, the For Every Kid Coalition, representing 89 coalition partners including the Community Cycling Center and the BTA, won an unprecedented investment in Safe Routes to School: $3.5 million. The Joint Policy Advisory Committee on Transportation (JPACT) voted in favor of the proposal that increases investments that provide safety for people walking, bicycling, and accessing transit, […]
By Jackie Mautner, Bicycle Mechanic So you’ve got a tool bag you bring with you for roadside repair, but what about when you’re home on a rainy day and itching to replace your badly worn tires, or fix that sticky headset? Here are a few tools that are sure to make working on your bike […]
Local nonprofit awarded grant to increase accessibility to new bike share system PORTLAND, OR – May 11, 2015 – National bicycle advocacy organization PeopleForBikes announced today the recipients of the Better Bike Share Partnership grants across the country. Local nonprofit organization, Community Cycling Center, will receive a $75,000 grant to help increase access to […]
Our 2015 Annual Report is available for download. Check out our financials, 2015 programs stats, and our favorite stories from last year. Thank you for your continued support!
By Daniel Shor, Community Collaborations Program Intern/BPS Plant I started working for the Community Cycling Center as part of the Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability’s (BPS) Climate Action Collaborative Cohort. BPS assigned me to the Cycling Center to help Helensview High School students develop a community outreach project; a project that would connect the […]
By Patrick Loftus, Volunteer and Event Manager For 22 years the Community Cycling Center has helped people of all ages experience the joy of earning their very own bikes. All of the bicycles for our Earn-a-Bike programs are fully cleaned and refurbished by staff and volunteers. It’s a lot of work that requires a lot […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Islabikes—producers of lightweight bikes made specifically for children—gave back to their community by donating 14 bikes to the Community Cycling Center. These bikes will be used for our new bike fleet, allowing us to lead many bike rides in Portsmouth, Cully, and beyond. “We can’t thank Islabikes enough […]
As many have heard, concerns regarding the safety along the Springwater Corridor prompted Joe Kurmaskie to put his Camp Creative based out of Sellwood Community Center on hold for the summer. The Corridor was the main bike path he used for his camp. We are working to gather more information regarding the current state of […]
By Jake Schorr, Bike Camp Manager With the weather warming, we’re eyeing our bikes and making plans for the summer. Take a look at our Bike Camp offerings to see if a week of riding in the sun could be the perfect summer plan for your child. We have spots available for all age groups […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager It was a cloudy Tuesday morning on the second day of spring break. While most students were nestled in their beds, the Cesar Chavez Bike Club crew arrived at 9:30am for their 4th week of Bike Club. Prior to Tuesday, the students learned about the importance of helmets, […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Rebecca joined the Community Cycling Center as a Communications Intern in 2015. Rebecca is a multi-talented volunteer. From writing to photography to speaking several languages, she can do it all. She supports multiple departments within our organization and helps us share many powerful stories about our programmatic work. […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Thank you to the Alliance for Biking & Walking and the League of American Bicyclists for celebrating our work to broaden access to bicycling and its benefits with the “Catalyst Award” at this year’s National Bike Summit in Washington DC. This award honors organizations that “elevate the walking […]
By Tim Weeks , Bike Mechanic The following is a great first-hand review of the new Brooks Cambium saddle from our senior mechanic Tim Weeks. But before you run out and try one for yourself, remember that butts come in all shapes and sizes and not every bicycle saddle will agree with everyone’s rear end. If you wish […]
By Melinda Musser, Communciations & Marketing Manager We just launched a brand new vehicle donation program with our partner Charity Connections! If you have a car, truck, RV, boat, or other type of vehicle, you can donate it to us via their online form and receive a tax-deductible donation. They’ll even pick up the vehicle […]
Patrick Loftus; Volunteer and Event Manager On Tuesday, the Community Cycling Center, with the help of six amazing volunteers, headed out to Skamania Lodge in Stevenson, WA to assemble bikes with the AT&T Cares Program. As we set up, Mariel of AT&T Mobility told us a little secret. Her team of almost 200 Pacific Northwest, […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Ever since Jericho was seven years old, he dreamed of one day owning his own bike shop. After his father purchased a Redline bicycle for him, he discovered a newfound freedom and fell in love with riding his bike everywhere. Eventually he embraced the world of BMX after […]
By Jackie Mautner, Bicycle Mechanic When considering purchasing a new or used bike, the following tips may prove useful in narrowing down your choice and finding the bike that’s perfect for you. These tips are not meant to be entirely comprehensive in terms of the subjects they touch upon, but instead provide a good starting […]
By Tim Weeks, Bicycle Mechanic I was a little skeptical when we first brought the Fortified lights into our bike shop. “Theft-proof lights are just not a thing,” was my first thought. But over the last few months, I’ve changed my tune. These lights are USB rechargeable and bright enough for my needs. One of […]
By Kelley Goodwin, Assistant Camp Manager If you think kids are the only ones counting down the days until summer, you’re wrong. Teachers do it, too. I know this because come spring, my roommate who works as a teacher tells me exactly how many school days are left. And I get excited, because the end […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Your bike powered through the typical elements familiar to Portlanders: snow, rain, mud, and the dreaded wintry mix. Your ride could probably use some love. We want to make it easy for you. This January and February, we’ll take $100 off the cost of a standard overhaul. We’ll put the […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Finally, bikes we can all share. Bikes that we can deploy anywhere and a platform that can create accessibility for residents facing barriers to accessing bicycles. Today, we are excited to help present NIKE’s announcement of their $10 million sponsorship of Portland’s bike share system with Portland Bureau of […]
By Jersey Deutsch, Volunteer & Development Coordinator Today, the winter campaign totals are confirmed and we are blown away by your support. That’s right, we raised over $179,127! In November we set out to raise $167,000 by the end of the year, which means you surpassed our goal by over $12,000! I joined the […]
By Rebecca Fisher, Communications Intern On a rainy, dark evening last Thursday, around 50 people came to a live podcast event hosted by BikePortland, Community Cycling Center, and Oregon Walks to hear a panel talk about the intersection of transportation and technology. The panel featured community leaders’ voices, including our own CEO, Mychal Tetteh; Executive […]
By Rebecca Fisher, Communications Intern After a push in the Cully community for better navigation aids in the neighborhood, Living Cully entered phase two of new wayfinding signage, including temporary signage that pedestrians and bicyclists tested out this past Saturday. The first phase included six different bike rides and five different walks, organized with the help […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Yesterday, Portland Bureau of Transportation invited Marlene, a dedicated, long-time ABC member, to provide testimony in front of Portland’s City Council to encourage the continued support of the collaboration between Sunday Parkways and ABC. You can watch her in this video or read her speech below. Good afternoon, My name is […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications and Marketing Manager There is another way you can support the future of the Community Cycling Center on our quest to broaden access to bicycling and its benefits. We have various tech and office needs that would allow us to do our jobs more efficiently and effectively. Help bring us back […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager This winter, get bike-friendly gifts for the bicycle lovers in your life at the Community Cycling Center. We’re offering three types of gift packs – Commuter, DIY, and Kids. Each category has dozens of items to choose from. Shop from now through December 31st and save big! How does it work? Pick 5 […]
By Rebecca Fisher, Communications Intern On November 5th, Lumberyard Bike Park donated $10,000 worth of new bikes to the Community Cycling Center. Some kids were fortunate enough to ride home with these bikes in last Sunday’s Holiday Bike Drive. The rest of the bikes will be used to build up a bike fleet that our […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager On Sunday, 300 children rode home with new bicycles, helmets, and the newfound knowledge on how to ride safely in their neighborhoods at the 20th annual Holiday Bike Drive. This event has come a long way since its inception in 1995 when our founder, Brian Lacy, used to […]
By Mychal Tetteh, CEO When the Community Cycling Center began partnering with Lam Research Foundation in 2014, Steven Soto was their first employee in line to volunteer. Since getting his start on Tuesday Drop-In Night, he’s stepped up to help clean, refurbish, transport, and distribute bicycles in the community. He’s often joined by his son, Luke, […]
Over 300 children to receive their first bicycles November 25, 2015 – Portland, Ore. – On Sunday, December 6th, the Community Cycling Center will celebrate 20 years of the Holiday Bike Drive, its most impactful program that has provided over 10,000 bicycles to children from families with low incomes since 1995. This December, witness the […]
This December, the Community Cycling Center will celebrate 20 years of the Holiday Bike Drive, our most impactful program that has provided over 10,000 bicycles to children from families with low incomes since 1995. We believe that every child deserves the life-changing power and healthy benefits that bicycles bring. Every December, Holiday Bike Drive helps […]
By Rebecca Fisher, Communications Intern Over the last month, the Community Cycling Center teamed up with NAYA to run a three part elective series for students at NAYA. The elective series was part of a larger series called “Outdoor Adventures” taught by Ben Taylor (pictured below). The three part bike segment consisted of one session […]
By Jersey Deutsch, Volunteer & Development Coordinator There’s nothing like having an excuse to swing dance in fancy clothes while sipping a Manhattan on a Wednesday night. Over 100 of you showed up for our second annual Bicycle Ball. Because of your support, we are kicking off our Winter Campaign with over $4,200! That’s enough […]
By Rebecca Fisher, Communications Intern When someone stole Barbara’s bike, she didn’t know what to do. Biking was her main mode of transportation and she couldn’t afford a new bike. Biking is important to her because it is a “sustainable mode of transit and is important for exercise.” She heard about Community Cycling Center’s Earn a […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Today, we are excited to share with you our new logo, website, and video featuring Laquida Landford, a woman who earned a bike and participated in a pilot leadership development training program at the Community Cycling Center. After celebrating our 20th anniversary last year, we decided it was time […]
By Jake Schorr, Program Manager When folks find out where I work, one of the first things they usually say is, “The Community Cycling Center, that place is the coolest!” And they are correct. One of the next things they usually say is, “One of these days I’d really like to learn how to fix […]
By Rebecca Fisher, Social Media Intern It’s a 7:00 pm on a Tuesday and NE Alberta Street is quiet, but Community Cycling Center is buzzing with energy. Twenty volunteers have come out for Volunteer Night to work on donated bikes for the Holiday Bike Drive, an event where about 300 children will earn bikes. The […]
By Patrick Loftus; Event Coordinator This September, a team of four staff and 14 volunteers from the Community Cycling Center joined Cycle Oregon for another year. Thanks to the efforts of our hard working volunteers and support from Cycle Oregon riders we raised over $27,000 to support our programs, namely our upcoming Holiday Bike Drive, where over […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager This September, one of Andando en Bicicletas en Cully’s (ABC) dreams finally came true. Safe bike storage became a reality at Clara Vista Townhomes, an affordable housing building in NE Portland where several members of ABC live. For the first time ever, residents have a safe place to […]
By Gwen, Service Supervisor This series of shop tips over the past several months was all about creating a basis for more in-depth knowledge. Whether you’re working on a bike you already own or preparing to buy a new one, it’s very helpful to be familiar with all the different types of components. Knowing their names, their […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manger Today is the beginning of September, which means Hopworks is kicking off their killer Community Tap program! They’re sending 1% of all Bike Bar pint sale proceeds throughout the month to the Community Cycling Center to support our work of broadening access to bicycling and its benefits. Join […]
By Gwen Koon, Service Manager This series of shop tips over the past several months was all about creating a basis for more in-depth knowledge. Whether you’re working on a bike you already own or preparing to buy a new one, it’s very helpful to be familiar with all the different types of components. Knowing their names, […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager During the months of September and October, buy a bag or pannier, fill it with any new parts and accessories, and we will give you 25% off everything inside the bag. Also, pro tip, you can put a bag inside a bag, which means you can buy one […]
By Patrick Loftus, Event Coordinator An enthusiastic group of transportation wonks crowded Radio Room on Wednesday to test their knowledge of transportation, the Tilikum Crossing, and offer up a little trash talk at our 7th edition of Transportation Trivia. With their help we raised over $2,400 to support our Bicycle Repair Hub at New Columbia. […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Our Bike Camp Middle Schoolers are very interested in all things Tilikum Crossing, Portland’s newest bridge in 40 years. At more than 1,700 feet in length, the Tilikum Crossing is the only bridge of its kind in the U.S. designed to only carry light rail trains, buses, streetcars, bicyclists, and […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager On Friday, August 7th, twelve people at IRCO rode home on bikes that were generously donated to the Community Cycling Center and lovingly refurbished by our mechanics and volunteers. But it wasn’t just bikes that they earned. The Earn a Bike participants received new helmets, locks, flat fix […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Kathryn Sofich joined our all-volunteer board in 2010. Before that, she was introduced to our work through the magic of the Holiday Bike Drive. Her tireless commitment to the mission of the Community Cycling Center is evident in her leadership of our board, support of our staff, and […]
By Lillian Karabaic, Development Manager We love local businesses at the Community Cycling Center, and in August and September, three great local businesses are loving us back. And it’s going to be delicious. So if you like cupcakes, wine, or beer, here are three great businesses that make supporting the work of the Community Cycling […]
By Heidi Beierle, Volunteer Storyteller Sunday Parkways, July 27th, in Khunamokwst Park. The place teemed with people from young to old in all shapes and sizes. Andando en Bicicletas en Cully (ABC) had the corner on the new park’s southwest corner, featuring their Photovoice Project, which calls for safe streets in Cully. They also offered bike […]
By Kelley Goodwin, Assistant Bike Camp Manager When I signed on as assistant camp manager, I was excited to find out that I would be in charge of running Cycle Oregon’s Bike Camp. Since 2011, I have been involved with the camp at Cycle Oregon first as a volunteer, then as an instructor, and now […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Earlier this year, the Community Cycling Center launched a pilot program with students from Rosemary Anderson High School (RAHS). RAHS is a community-based alternative high school for students who are not succeeding in the public school setting. RAHS’ efforts are proving successful with a current graduation rate of […]
In our previous ship tip, Gwen wrote about cables, housing and accessories. In this tip, she will provide an overview of front and rear derailleurs. Introduction This shop tip is all about creating a basis for more in-depth knowledge. Whether you’re working on a bike you already own or are preparing to buy a new one, it’s […]
Retail Happy Hour on Alberta Street kicks off this Wednesday, June 24th, from 3-6 p.m. at nearly 40 Alberta Street retail businesses. Retail Happy Hour invites shoppers to visit Alberta Street every Wednesday afternoon for great deals and exclusive discounts while supporting local independent retailers. The Community Cycling Center and Gladys Bikes are teaming up […]
By Gwen Koon, Service Supervisor Last month, Gwen wrote about the exciting world of brakes and levers. In this shop tip, she will review cable, housing, and accessories as a complement to her previous post. In the picture below, you can see a number of the different small parts which are used in setting up brakes and shifters. […]
Event raises over $9,000 for the non-profit Community Cycling Center June 16, 2015 – Portland, Ore. – The Missing Link bike shop mechanics James Emond and Matt Glynn emerged victorious as the winners of the 2nd Annual Bike Mechanic Challenge last Saturday at Velo Cult Bike Shop. They bested their competition—including last year’s returning champions, Bike Gallery—in […]
By Lillian Karabaic, Development Manager Missing Link Bike Shop mechanics James Emond and Matt Glynn emerged victorious as the winners of the 2nd Annual Bike Mechanic Challenge last Saturday at Velo Cult Bike Shop. They bested their competition, including last year’s returning champions, Bike Gallery, in four technical challenges to take the grand prize of an […]
What’s so cool about Po Campo bags? It’s 3-fold: 1) They are cute and stylish and are a bit less obvious and awkward than, say, a big, yellow waterproof pannier. Take them off the bike and you’d never know they are bike compatible. 2) They fit on bikes and racks that might otherwise have trouble […]
A benefit for the Community Cycling Center June 5, 2015 – Portland, Ore. – Which bike shop will take home the trophy for having the best bicycle mechanics in the city? Find out at the 2nd annual Bike Mechanic Challenge, a benefit for the Community Cycling Center. Mechanics from around the city will compete in […]
By Patrick Loftus, Event Coordinator In just two short weeks at the Community Cycling Center’s Bike Mechanic Challenge, Portland’s best bike shops will compete to see who has city’s best mechanics. Beyond bragging rights, they’ll also get great prizes from our friends at Efficient Velo Tools (EVT). While some of you may not be familiar […]
The nonprofit offers Bike Camps in NE and SE Portland May 28, 2015 – Portland, Ore. – What better way for kids to spend their summers than with new friends at the Community Cycling Center’s Bike Camps.This summer, the Center will offer more camps in two locations: NE Alberta Street at the Community Cycling Center […]
By Gwen Koon, Service Supervisor Introduction This next series of shop tips over the next several months will be all about creating a basis for more in-depth knowledge. Whether you’re working on a bike you already own or preparing to buy a new one, it’s very helpful to be familiar with all the different types of components. […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Bike Camp is just around the corner. For those of you still looking for fun summer adventures for your kids, we still have 40 spots remaining in our Bike Camps this summer. Bike Camp teaches safety, group riding technique, right of way, and basic, hands-on maintenance skills. Yet the […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Are you looking for bike events to do this summer? There is no better place to celebrate the joy of bicycling and practice your bicycle touring skills than on Cycle Oregon’s Weekend Ride. The event will be held at Western Oregon University in Monmouth, where you can experience […]
By David Kurishima, Retail Manager A year ago I would have rolled my eyes at the thought of writing a review about a chain cleaner. For years I always thought of these grimy plastic “tools” lying around our shop as nothing but a gimmicky toy akin to a Hot Wheels carwash play set, and I […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Cassidy is one of the most talented people I have had the pleasure to work with. He’s currently our graphic design intern, but has also helped us out with photography, videography, wrenching on bikes, and even scoring music! Cassidy is always willing to step in and volunteer when he can, […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Translations of ABC Member quotes by Lale Santelices, Collaborations Manager Members of Andando en Bicicletas en Cully (ABC) and We All Can Ride spoke about their work in north and northeast Portland at this week’s Oregon Active Transportation Summit (OATS) in Portland. Here are a few highlights from […]
By Gwen Koon, Service Supervisor There are many reasons that you might need to replace the chain on your bicycle. Chains wear out over time, get damaged in accidents, or may become too rusted to function. Below, you will learn how to install a new chain on your bike. The most important thing to keep in mind […]
Quotes and translations provided by William Francis and Lale Santelices On Saturday, March 14th, members of Andando en Bicicletas en Cully (ABC) joined Verde for a bike ride to identify barriers to accessing Wellington and Khunamokwst Park. Khunamokwst is the first developed park in the Cully Neighborhood. The Khunamokwst Grand Opening Celebration will take place on Saturday, […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager In this month’s volunteer spotlight, we celebrate Keil Mueller, one of our amazing board members. All of our board members generously volunteer their time to stewarding the mission of the Community Cycling Center. In addition to being a member of our board, Keil supports the fiscal health of […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Our Transportation Trivia Night: BIG TRAINS EDITION fundraiser was incredibly successful. Together, we raised a grand total of $3,546 to support our work of broadening access to bicycling and its benefits. We can’t thank you enough for your generosity! For those of you who have been to one […]
Dear Friends of the Community Cycling Center, As you may have heard, we were not awarded funding for the Metro RTO 2015-2017 grant season. For those of you who do not regularly attend Transportation Trivia, Metro RTO stands for Regional Travel Options, a program known for awarding grants that increase mobility around the Portland Metro […]
The Youth Bike Summit strengthens the national movement of youth on bikes by developing leaders in a weekend of fun, advocacy, training, and workshops. For the first time ever, the Summit took place in Seattle (previously held in New York City), allowing more opportunities for kids on the West Coast to engage in activities […]
By Lale Santelices, Collaborations Manager Members of the Cully community and the new Líderes Verdes (trained volunteer leaders from Verde), who will join ABC this year, received a bike and safety training at our Earn a Bike workshop. After a meeting I was able to check in with three of the participants about the workshop […]
By Heidi Beierle, Volunteer Storyteller On Sunday, February 8th, nearly 3,000 riders – from wee to crinkly – celebrated the statistically worst weather day of the year by getting together in costume and pick-your-worst-weather-event bicycling armor. I’m a Community Cycling Center volunteer, curious, bike-lover, game for a challenge. I wanted a chance to say, “Take […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager The Community Cycling Center had a very successful 2014, but we could not have done it without the support of our volunteers. Last week, we threw a party to celebrate the many accomplishments we made together. A look back at 2014 volunteer highlights: Volunteers helped us expand our […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager We are on the verge of creating an online resource that will amplify and simplify community organizing around active transportation. Our advocacy volunteers do not need tech skills to build the future of Portland’s advocacy network. We are looking for people of all skill levels with a passion […]
By Randi Orth, Former Volunteer & Outreach Manager at the Community Cycling Center For those who don’t know, Jim O’Horo holds the title of longest running volunteer with Community Cycling Center in its entire history. Having started his stint with us in 1996 on a suggestion from a former Bicycle Transportation Alliance staffer, his presence […]
By Kelly Hansen, Program Director Jorge, an 11 year old who frequents the Bike Skills Park at New Columbia, wanted to learn to do a wheelie. He asked me for help. I told him I couldn’t help. One day I showed up and found him covered in dust with skinned elbows riding around on the […]
By Jake Schorr, Bike Camp Manager Can you count to 145 on your tingling, frost-numbed fingers? Because that’s how many days we have until Bike Camp begins! As the season stretches toward spring and summer, we’ll be trading out rain pants for Ray-Bans (or perhaps a more affordable option), winter wear for water bottles, fenders […]
By Lillian Karabaic, Development Coordinator We are wrapping up the most successful Winter Campaign we have ever had at the Community Cycling Center, having raised more than $204,413 of our $203,000 goal, from 576 individuals and businesses. Most notably, a whopping 31% of our donors this campaign are first time donors! It’s a privilege to […]
Join us on Sunday, February 8th, for the Worst Day of the Year Ride! If you registered for last year’s ride (during the Snowpocalypse!), you are good to go for 2015. A portion of the proceeds from this ride will go towards supporting our work of broadening access to bicycling and its benefits. The Worst […]
Over the next month, your bike will see the typical elements familiar to Portlanders: rain, mud, and the dreaded wintry mix. Your ride could probably use some love. We want to make it easy for you. This January and February, we’ll take $100 off the cost of a standard overhaul. We’ll put the same […]
By Brianna Harris, Campaign Specialist On Wednesday, community members gathered at the Village Ballroom to help build the future of the Community Cycling Center through an evening of idea sharing, priority building, and discussing the challenges facing our community at our first annual Jeffersonian Dinner. Discussions ranged from what strategic direction the Cycling Center should […]
By Heidi Beierle, Volunteer Storyteller Paul is a Community Cycling Center donor and regular volunteer. I spoke with him and his daughter, Nora, during a recent Tuesday night volunteer drop-in at the Alberta shop. I’m a volunteer, too, and curious why other volunteers contribute time and money to the organization. “I want to be a […]
We will be livestreaming our Jeffersonian dinner tonight. Stay tuned.
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Since the Holiday Bike Drive’s inception in 1995, the Community Cycling Center has provided over 10,000 bicycles to children from underserved communities. On Sunday, 300 children became Portland’s newest riders after going home with bicycles, helmets, and safety education at the 19th annual Holiday Bike Drive held at Legacy […]
By Brianna Harris, Campaign Specialist Every year hundreds of faces light up with joy at the Holiday Bike Drive. Kids smile, laugh, and some of them earn their very first bike. At the Community Cycling Center, we can’t help but smile, and be proud of the work we do. We love the bicycle, we love what […]
For the past 25 years, Congressman Earl Blumenauer developed a tradition of baking and delivering hundreds of fruitcakes to family, friends, and colleagues. When he dropped off a cake at Salt & Straw, it sparked a big idea. They decided to translate the Congressman’s own personal recipe into a flavorful ice cream concoction. Earl has […]
By Lillian Karabaic, Development Coordinator What a night! Community Cycling Center’s 20th Anniversary Bicycle Ball was well-attended with 95 guests. The evening was filled with an air of celebration as dapper duds were donned, photos snapped, and party goers danced the Charleston and the Lindy Hop with drinks in hand. Together, we raised $10,129 during […]
By Allison Giffin, Winter Campaign Specialist and Lillian Karabaic, Development Coordinator Last Saturday, 25 citizens generously forwent the sunny weekend weather for the greater good of transportation advocacy to attend our first-ever Avenues to Advocacy hackathon. ESRI Portland R&D Center generously donated their downtown office – and it was an ideal spot – with not one, […]
By Gwen Koon, Service Supervisor PART 1: SELECTION Choosing a saddle that is the correct shape for your body is an important part of making sure that you’ll be comfortable on your bike. It’s also something that a lot of people struggle with. Here are some saddle basics to help you along your way. A […]
By Abby Kraai, Volunteer Storyteller If there were a Tour de France for tiny tots, last Sunday’s Dia de Los Muertos ride would have been it. Kids of all sizes (but mostly small) gathered at Harvey Scott Elementary School on Sunday to sip hot chocolate–delivered on wheels by Icicle Tricycles–and get their drizzly bike ride […]
Live music, 1920s-inspired cocktails, and more November 10, 2014 – Portland, Ore. – This November, get ready for the bicycle event of the season. The Bicycle Ball is a fundraiser for the nonprofit, Community Cycling Center. Celebrating 20 years of broadening access to bicycles, the Cycling Center is hosting this fundraiser to support the next […]
By David Kurushima, Retail Manager There are many things you can learn about the nature and habits of Portland cyclists simply by looking at what they are buying throughout the year. One thing that has stood out to me at our shop in recent years is that, along with fenders (for obvious reasons), higher-end lights […]
By Allison Giffin, Campaign Specialist We all have ideas about how to improve the safety of our neighborhood streets, our commutes, and our kids’ journeys to school, but how do those ideas turn into results? The local policy system can seem like a monolith when you want something done in your community, and you haven’t […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer & Outreach Manager During the second week of September, five Community Cycling Center staff members, 15 volunteers, and our brightly designed box truck headed east to The Dalles to join the adventure that is Cycle Oregon. For over a decade, the Community Cycling Center has partnered with Cycle Oregon to raise […]
By Forrest Scott, Service Supervisor Hello Everyone! The first day of fall is just about a week away! Last Thursday’s blustery weather reminded me that it’s time to adjust my bike commuting practice to suite the changing season. And, given that it’s almost fall, we know that: Below is a collection of relevant shop tips […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Amy Meyer, our fabulous graphic design volunteer, came to us via a recommendation from a PNCA professor. I have had the pleasure of working with Amy on many key design projects this past year, including the launch of our Planned Giving Program brochure, a Portland Mercury advertisement for […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager “I was overwhelmed by the amount of people that showed up to ride and the support we got from the community as we rode through.” – Jason Washington, Take Back the Streets organizer As we reflect back on the Take Back the Streets bike ride and event in […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Sometimes we truly receive some unique gems donated to our bike shop. Right now, we have a super sweet, custom-built Serotta ‘CPI’ track bike frame autographed by Ben Serotta. Here’s the details: 54cm custom-built Serotta ‘CPI’ track bike in amazing condition. Autographed by Ben Serotta on 3/9/98. Actually […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager A fifth and highly competitive round of Transportation Trivia Night convened at Radio Room this past Wednesday evening. Team Rumble Strips arrived, trophy in hand, determined to defend their title. It was neck and neck, but team Anything But Pedestrian—a group of folks from Oregon Walks—took home the […]
Bike ride and event will address recent shootings August 6, 2014 – Portland, Ore. – In response to the recent shootings in Portland, community activists Jason Washington, of Brothers Gaining Equality Through Excellence, and DeMarcus Preston, a former gang member, decided to gather a group of people for a bike ride to “take back the […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager What a weekend! For the first time ever, the Community Cycling Center offered a Bikes for Kids event in East Multnomah County, an area with a significant lack of bicycling resources. Last Saturday, 94 children went home with bicycles, helmets, safety education, and family resources at the new […]
Ernest joined the Community Cycling Center team this week as our new Chief Operating Officer. As COO, Ernest focuses on continual improvement of the Cycling Center, creating a foundation for growth within its mission while stewarding financial, human resources, administrative, and internal processes. Driven by helping staff realize their full potential, Ernest encourages the development […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer & Outreach Manager Melissa is a mainstay in the alternative transportation scene; she’s connected, to say the least. For Community Cycling Center, Melissa represents creative volunteerism at its best. While you won’t see her in our most frequently visited shop and program opportunities, her role is just as important: advocating for […]
100 Children to Receive Bicycles at New Boys and Girls Club July 22, 2014 – Portland, Ore. – This summer, 100 children from underserved communities will receive bicycles, helmets, safety education, and family resources at the Community Cycling Center’s Bikes for Kids event located at the new Rockwood Boys and Girls Club in Gresham. The […]
By David Kurushima, Retail Manager Do your summer plans include a day ride on your road bike or shredding some trails on your mountain bike? How about a fully-loaded tour or a casual trip across town with nothing but your lock and keys? Well, consider this humble gem of convenience: the Frame Pac(k) by Jandd […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager This July, Voodoo Doughnut is celebrating the Community Cycling Center’s 20th anniversary with the introduction of the bike doughnut! From now until August 2nd, every time you purchase a bike doughnut at the downtown or NE Portland Voodoo locations, a portion of the proceeds will go towards helping […]
Dear Friends, Celebrating the Community Cycling Center’s 20th anniversary is a humbling experience. When we started the campaign at the beginning of June, we never thought it would be as wildly successful as it has become. We set a fundraising goal of $30,000 and our community of supporters rose to the occasion and gave generously. […]
Recently, Lost Oregon dug up some fun video archives about the Yellow Bike Program. We sat down with Brian Lacy, our founder, to chat about the Community Cycling Center’s involvement with the program. Although the Cycling Center eventually pulled away from the Yellow Bike Program, Brian spoke of the hope and optimism that providing […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Last week, we sat down to chat with Ben Duncan, founding board member of OPAL and the Chief Diversity and Equity Officer at Multnomah County Health. Ben graduated from our Create a Commuter program over a decade ago, and shared with us his thoughts on the importance of […]
By Forrest Scott, Mechanic This month’s shop tip covers pad replacement and adjustment for mechanical disc brakes. Since the Avid BB7 model is increasingly common as stock equipment for commuting bikes, I chose to focus on this particular model for this month’s tip. Much of the information below is relevant to other mechanical brake models. […]
It’s the first week of Bike Camp, that time of year where kids of all ages take over the streets of Portland, armed with popsicles, wrenches, new friends, and adventures. We sat down with fellow Bike Campers at New Columbia–many of which are graduates of our Bike Club program–to ask about what they learned […]
By Mike Conway, Development Manager What started out as a mellow evening quickly became a night filled with pandemonium. The Bike Mechanic Challenge was in full force Saturday night at Velo Cult. At the helm was Brett Flemming—owner of Efficient Velo Tools—our fearless emcee who led 10 bike shops and 20 mechanics through a series […]
Event raises over $11,000 for the Community Cycling Center June 16, 2014 – Portland, Ore. – Two mechanics from Bike Gallery—Brian Link and Sterling Hill—took home the trophy at the 2014 Bike Mechanic Challenge, a benefit for the Community Cycling Center. Mechanics from around the city competed in a series of events in front of […]
June 5, 2014 – Portland, Ore. – The Community Cycling Center, Portland’s first nonprofit bike shop, is celebrating its 20thanniversary this June. This week, the Center launched its anniversary campaign video, featuring their founder, Brian Lacy. From their humble beginnings on 24th and Alberta Street, to their very first Holiday Bike Drive, Lacy shares his memories of what […]
Twenty years ago, the Community Cycling Center became a nonprofit organization dedicated to broadening access to bicycling and its benefits. To celebrate this special anniversary, we want to share this video of our founder, Brian Lacy, with you. Brian speaks about his inspiration for starting the Community Cycling Center. With his vision, he launched core […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager It’s not too late to sign your child up for a summer full of adventures on two wheels. We still have openings in the following Bike Camps: At Community Cycling Center: Advanced Cruisers Grades 4-5: July 7-11 Girls Cruisers Grades 4-5: July 14-18 Cruisers Grades 4-5: August 11-15 […]
By Ari Kemis, Volunteer Storyteller School is almost out—and so is Bike Club! Middle school students who joined our after-school, bike safety program in the Portland area are nearly finished with the spring six-week program. They are getting ready to teach their friends and family all about bicycles and ride off with their newly earned […]
Mechanics Gear Up for Bike Mechanic Challenge A benefit for the Community Cycling Center May 21, 2014 – Portland, Ore. – Which bike shop has the best bicycle mechanics in the city? Find out at the Bike Mechanic Challenge, a benefit for the Community Cycling Center. Mechanics from around the city will compete in a […]
By Patrick Loftus, Service Manager For what will be my final shop tip, we’re going to step outside the bike shop and talk about sweet places to ride in Portland. These are just a few of my favorite under two hour rides I like to squeeze in before or after work. They’re all pretty mellow […]
By Mike Conway, Development Manager Which bike shop has the best bicycle mechanics in the city? Find out at the Bike Mechanic Challenge, a benefit for the Community Cycling Center. Mechanics from around the city will compete in a series of fun events in front of a live audience. There will be food carts, beer, […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer & Outreach Manager Where Laura finds the time to do so much, no one will ever know! She seems to be everywhere at once: helping our Development Team at our administrative office, taking a mid-day break to go help some other awesome Portland non-profit, back at our shop fixin’ a few […]
Our amazing Chief Operating Officer, Anne Lee, will be transitioning out of her role to pursue a new adventure. After five years at the Community Cycling Center, she made an incredible contribution to our organization. Anne shared with us what her time here has meant to her. I remember driving across the country five years […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager For the month of May, our bike shop is highlighting locally-owned companies! Check out our new selection of backpacks and messenger bags from North St., Black Star, and BLAQ. We now carry USB rechargeable lights, The Aether Demon™, from Portland Design Works. Also, stop by to see our […]
By Zoe Piliafas, Director of Programming The halls of Cesar Chavez School were not filled with the typical noises coming from the 400+ student body. Today was a teacher work day. All students had the day off! When I was younger, this meant sleeping in until 11am and waking up just in time for The Price […]
By David Kurushima, Retail Manager Here at our shop, some of our most cherished bike parts are the cheap accessories that get salvaged from inexpensive kids’ bikes. Why? Because kids get all the sweet stuff—sparkly brake housing, frame pads that say “Terror of Demon Storm,” miniature handle-bar mounted bikes for your Barbie and, of course, […]
By Lale Santelices, Program Coordinator The ABC group has been active in the Hacienda Community for over 3 years. Through a photo voice project and a bike census, they identified barriers to biking in their neighborhood. One of these barriers includes the lack of safe and secure bike storage within their apartment communities. The resident led […]
By Heidi Beierle, Volunteer Storyteller Maria earned her bike on Valentine’s Day earlier this year during a Create a Commuter workshop. In the opening circle of that February workshop, Maria said, “I look forward to riding my bike to save money. I had a bike, but it was stolen.” This April, Community Cycling Center follows […]
By Lisa Ratzlaff, Volunteer Storyteller Close to 25 volunteers gathered on March 15th in New Columbia to spruce up the Bike Skills Park. Volunteers and staff from We All Can Ride, The Community Cycling Center, Village Gardens, Northwest Trail Alliance, and East Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District (who provided the grant to cover the […]
By Mike Conway, Development Manager The Community Cycling Center likes to do things a little differently. We’ve been out and about developing some new partnerships with the hope of offering you (our fabulous friends) new ways to support us and give back to our community. Whether you like wine, shop at Fred Meyer, or are […]
By Patrick Loftus, Service Manager A while back we covered what tools are good to carry with you on your commute. This month we’ll talk about some tips and tricks for repairs when you don’t have the tools. All of the repair tips mentioned below are temporary, emergency only, and in some cases, barely better […]
By Mike Conway, Development Manager The fourth installment of Community Cycling Center’s Transportation Trivia invaded City Hall. This time, we moved our event to the political epicenter of our beautiful city and the folks at City Hall welcomed us with open arms. The who’s who of the transportation geeks and wonks were on hand to […]
By Mychal Tetteh, CEO The 2014 National Bike Summit held in Washington DC was a chance to join forces with bike advocates from all over the country. It was a mix of capacity building and good old fashioned lobbying with a little bit of fun sprinkled in. This was my first time at the National […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager New Republic reports what we’ve been hearing for a while now, millennials (those born after 1981) are increasingly abandoning cars for bikes, public transit, and car-share opportunities. When you zoom out and look at the nation’s zero-vehicle households as a whole, the picture is a good reminder that […]
The nonprofit will now offer day camps in NE and SE Portland March 11, 2014 – Portland, Ore. – This summer, the Community Cycling Center will expand their Bike Camp program by offering more camps in two locations: on NE Alberta Street at the Community Cycling Center headquarters, and at a new location on SE […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer & Outreach Manager I first met Ralph at our weekly Tuesday Drop-In Nights. He initially stood out to me for two reasons: Ralph arrived by motorcycle and he had a focus on the process of bike repair that rivals few others. Over five years later, his volunteer shifts have transitioned from […]
Fourth installment of trivia event will move to City Hall in March March 4, 2014 – Portland, Ore. – The Community Cycling Center is collecting the wonkiest of trivia questions to put a group of transportation nerds to the test at their fourth installment of Transportation Trivia Night. And this time, they’re going big. On […]
By Mychal Tetteh, CEO It’s amazing what happens when we ask: why not? When I shared the challenges that active transportation advocates face, it was surprising how common the obstacles were. When and where to show up, who and how to ask, and what to ask for? Digging deeper, we found disparate information sources and […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Last Tuesday, members of Andando en Bicicletas en Cully (ABC), a resident-led bike committee at Hacienda CDC, welcomed new members with a party. The event was equal parts potluck, advocacy, and basic bike maintenance. ABC connected with leaders from the local, environmental wealth group, Verde, who were interested […]
By Heidi Beierle, Volunteer Storyteller On Valentine’s Day, five women and five men from Central City Concern earned new commuter bikes equipped with everything they need to ride safely and confidently. This valentine joy also came with lessons on riding safely, taking bikes on transit, and locking the bike securely. All ten participants spent […]
By: Noel Mickelberry, Development Coordinator It is my favorite time of year. We’re collecting the wonkiest of questions to put a group of transportation nerds to the test at our fourth installment of Transportation Trivia Night. And this time, we’re going big. On Wednesday, March 19th,, we will hold the event in a new location—the […]
By David Kurushima, Retail Manager At the Community Cycling Center, we are all about removing barriers to bicycling—whether it be providing access to affordable bikes and cycling education, or working to remove any of the innumerable cultural, economic or physical barriers that impede one’s ability to enjoy this active and healthful mode of transportation. Here […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer & Outreach Manager Heidi’s volunteer work at Community Cycling Center is very specific, though her support of our mission runs deep. While you won’t see Heidi working in our bike shop very much, her hours spent capturing the energy and feeling of our events and activities in writing is a […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer & Outreach Manager While math is not my strong point, I feel really confident in the following equation: (High fives and smiles) x Tamales + Gold-painted Awards = Volunteer Appreciation Night That’s right, last night was our annual appreciation event for the many volunteers who support our work every day of […]
Over the next month, your bike will see the elements Portland commuters have become accustomed to: rain, mud, and the dreaded wintry mix. It could probably use some love. We want to make it easy for you. This February and March, we’ll take $100 off the cost of all bike refurbishments. We’ll put the same […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager We are so excited to add six new board members to an already talented and dedicated team. Meet our newest members below. Queta González National Programs Director, Center for Diversity & the Environment Queta is the National Programs Director for the Portland-based Center for Diversity & the […]
By Cheryl Matushak, Volunteer Storyteller The cold weather may have driven many people inside, but the members of We All Can Ride used it as a chance to learn the nuts and bolts of bike repair. Linda, Doug, Michelle, and Yvette spent the better part of an afternoon – first watching and then doing – […]
By Patrick Loftus, Service Manager This seems like a simple subject, but it’s one of the more common questions we get in our bike shop and it’s surprisingly complicated. Today’s shop tip will introduce all things tire related: casing, tread, valve types, decoding all those numbers on the side of the tire, picking the right […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer & Outreach Manager I’m a pretty big fan of Nick. As a Tuesday Drop-In Night regular (and a perennial enthusiast of friendly debate on a wide range of intriguing topics), he’s a stand out. Nick is one of a few people that I’ve met who can wear new clothes while refurbishing […]
By Kelly Hansen, Program Manager Our Alberta Street neighbors have heard them cheering, east-siders have seen them exploring their streets, and Portlanders everywhere talk about them: the Community Cycling Centers’ Bike Campers. They are kids at day camp; the city is their campus, and their bikes are their tools for adventure. Every summer, kids flock […]
Dear Friends, Thank you for supporting us during our winter campaign. Together we raised $121,057. Everywhere we looked, we found people willing to contribute to our work. You heard from people at our Sneak Peek event about why they support the Cycling Center year after year. You watched as 382 children earned their first bikes […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager The 13th Annual Worst Day of the Year Ride is back! Registration begins NOW. Sign up at our bike shop located at 1700 NE Alberta Street and receive a $5 discount on the ride – plus 25% off on winter apparel. The Worst Day of the Year Ride […]
By Lori Rodriguez, Volunteer A few weekends ago, I had the pleasure of volunteering with the Create a Commuter workshop held at Hacienda’s Salon Comunal, or Community Center, in Northeast Portland. For those who aren’t familiar with the program (I wasn’t until I volunteered for it!), Create a Commuter identifies low-income adults in need of […]
By Heidi Beierle, Volunteer Storyteller I volunteer for the kids, the other volunteers, the love of bicycling, and because being at the Holiday Bike Drive feels right and good. Every year, the Community Cycling Center brings the gift of bicycling to approximately 375 children. This annual event requires the work of over 500 volunteers, and […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Last Sunday, over 375 children and their families convened at Legacy Emanuel’s beautiful and surprisingly sun-filled atrium to earn bicycles, helmets, and safety education. The Holiday Bike Drive is the culmination of a year of work by more than 500 volunteers who dedicate over 5,000 hours to clean […]
By: Noel Mickelberry, Development Coordinator On Wednesday night, dedicated and enthused volunteers, friends and supporters braved the cold and joined us at the 4th annual Holiday Bike Drive Sneak Peek at our bike shop. Warmed with twinkly lights, a Metrofiets’ beer bike and sandwiches galore, we had one of the most successful events to date. […]
By Theo Roffe, Bike Club Instructor Harvey Scott’s Bike Club has come to an end and our graduates have earned their bikes. Before they went home, we asked them what they learned during their six weeks of Bike Club. Here are some of their answers: “Learned how to check the bike.” (Ben and Josue) “How […]
Over 375 children to receive bicycles, helmets, and safety education November 25, 2013– Portland, Ore. – In December, over 375 children from underserved communities will convene at Legacy Emanuel Hospital with their families to receive bicycles, helmets, and safety education at the Community Cycling Center’s 18th annual Holiday Bike Drive. The Cycling Center invites the […]
By Theo Roffe, Instructor Rosa Parks Bike Club has come to an end and we’re proud to announce 13 graduates! Each graduate received a certificate, lights (it gets dark early during the school year and our participants want to be as visible as they can be riding home from school in lower light conditions), and […]
By Heidi Beierle, Volunteer Storyteller For 14 years, approximately 30 volunteers each year from Portland Wheelmen Touring Club have devoted three Fridays in November to repair and clean bikes for the Community Cycling Center’s Holiday Bike Drive. About 860 bikes have passed through the Wheelmen’s hands – fueled by 2016 slices of pizza – to […]
By Mychal Tetteh, CEO In my first 50 days as the CEO of the Community Cycling Center, I’ve met all types of passionate and dedicated people in our active transportation ecosystem. One common theme has emerged: the infrastructure that we have in place to support active transportation advocates isn’t working as well as it should. […]
By Noel Mickelberry, Development Coordinator It’s a special time of year at the Community Cycling Center, with Holiday Bike Drive right around the corner. At this annual event, 375 kids from families living on low incomes will receive refurbished bikes, safety education, and helmets. We’re celebrating the Holiday Bike Drive and all the work of […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager This winter, get bike-friendly gifts for the bike lovers in your life at our bike shop and save big. From November 15th until the end of December, we’re offering three Holiday Gift Packs for you to choose from: kids, commuters, and DIYers. Pick 5 or more items in […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer & Outreach Manager Janelle has volunteered with the Community Cycling Center for years. Over the course of this past year, she managed to find herself in some of our most nuanced and exciting volunteer roles. And she acts like it’s not a big deal. (Hint: it IS a big deal, and […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager If you are looking for an organization that closely resembles our model, look no further. Bike Works, an organization in Seattle, has an amazing staff and dedicated volunteers that are working everyday to build sustainable communities by educating youth and promoting bicycling. They came down for a visit earlier […]
By Noel Mickelberry, Development Coordinator Today marks the start of the Willamette Week’s 10th annual Give!Guide and we are honored to be a part of it for the 6th year in a row. The Give!Guide works to increase the number of young supporters of local nonprofits and their incredible work by creating a sense of […]
By Noel Mickelberry, Development Coordinator “The bicycle has changed my life in regards to my health. It helps me when I go grocery shopping and when I drop my daughter off at school,” says Yeni Salazar. “It is more fun to ride as a family on our bikes. We are breathing the fresh air, looking […]
By Patrick Loftus, Service Manager The most common question we get in the shop is, “What do I use to oil my chain?” This month’s shop tip covers different oils, greases, and solvents and their best uses. Light Oil – TriFlow ($5), Phil Wood’s Bio Lube ($10), and Prolink are just a few examples of […]
This month, we’re excited to feature a Bike Club participant from Rosa Parks Elementary School. Rosa Parks is a new partnership for the Community Cycling Center, and we could not be more excited to work with them. The school is located directly across the street from New Columbia’s Bike Repair Hub and Skills Park, allowing […]
Lale Santelices is by far our cheeriest staff member. Over the years she has done a little bit of absolutely everything. She recently signed on as a permanent employee, and we want to celebrate by shining our staff spotlight on her. Meet Lale! You have been with the Community Cycling Center for a while. What […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager “I especially enjoyed meeting Neda. She’s from Iraq,” remarked Doug, a We All Can Ride member. “I think it’s marvelous that we can have all of this diversity here. It’s one of the great wonders and joys of living in New Columbia.” Last Friday, four members of We […]
Review #1 of the Spaceship™ 3 By Gwen Koon, Service Mechanic I picked up PDW’s Spaceship™ 3 a couple of months ago, an emotional separation from my old CatEye Opti-Cube from waay back in 2009 (may it rest in peace). The most important factor for me when it comes to headlights is (surprisingly) visibility. I […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer & Outreach Manager Do you know Patti? We think you should! She has volunteered with us for over a decade, though this past year and a half she’s really stepped up her commitment. In short, Patti supported every major event in the last year in addition to joining our fundraising committee. […]
By Jonnie Ling, Director of Operations “What’s your favorite program at the Community Cycling Center?” I’m often asked in interviews and conversations alike. Our community collaborations with New Columbia and Hacienda usually take the #1 spot, but I may soon have a new favorite. Late in 2012, I was asked to lead a truly innovative […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist We have decided to extend the popular Pack-a-Pannier promotion through the end of October. This means another month of big savings. If this is your first time hearing about Pack-a-Pannier, or you need a refresher, here are the details: Through the end of October, buy a bag or pannier, […]
Giant Bicycles and Cross Crusade are partnering to support the Community Cycling Center at the 2013 River City Bicycles Cross Crusade with a raffle. Raffle tickets will be sold at the October 6th, 13th, and 20th CycleCross events. Tickets are $5*. Winner will choose from a TCX SLR 2 or Brava SLR in his or […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager This fall, Bike Club is back. This after-school, bike safety education and earn-a-bike program for 9-12 year olds will return to Harvey Scott School next week. We’re also extremely excited to offer our very first Bike Club at Rosa Parks Elementary School this season. Rosa Parks is located […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Mychal Tetteh showed up to work on Monday morning ready for his new role as our Chief Executive Officer. We sat down with Mychal to find out about his plans for the future of the Community Cycling Center and what he learned while working at the Village Market […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager This September, we are celebrating the BTA’s Bike Commute Challenge month by riding along with one of our favorite commuters. Linda Dougherty lives in New Columbia and is a member of the We All Can Ride Bike Committee. I met up with Linda last Friday afternoon to join […]
By David Kurushima, Retail Manager This month, rather than promoting the outstanding merits of a singular product manufactured by a particular company, I would rather recommend to you a type of product, which you may not have ever used – specifically a type of water bottle cage. This type of cage has no universal name, […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer and Outreach Manager It is my very great pleasure to introduce you to our September Volunteer Spotlight: Jimmy! Jimmy consistently brings a community-minded, gentle blend of teaching to our shop and outreach program. Always with a mind for empowering the individuals he works alongside, Jimmy uses his toolset of hands-on, explanation-based […]
By Noel Mickelberry, Development Coordinator Transportation Trivia Night is becoming a well-loved tradition around here. It always seems impossible to top the previous event, but last night may take the cake as the most successful Transportation Trivia Night to date! Over 120 contestants, well-versed in the wonkiest of transportation facts, joined us at the Radio […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist During the month of September, buy a bag or pannier, fill your new bag with any new parts and accessories, and we will give you 25% off everything inside the bag. Also, pro tip, you can put a bag inside a bag, which means you can buy one bag […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager The Bike Skills Park at New Columbia is now a popular gathering spot for families, friends, and neighbors, bringing more people and attention to the once vacant lot that resides on the corner of N. Trenton Street and N. Woolsey Avenue. “When I go to the garden, I […]
By Bonnie Harvey, Bike Camp Instructor The week started like all other Bike Camps: practicing rules of the road, turn signals, and mapping day trips around Portland. This was only the beginning, however, as the overnight Bike Campers were eager to fulfill the “overnight” portion of their name. It was all a matter of training […]
August 23, 2013 – Portland, Ore. – Today the Community Cycling Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to broadening access to bicycling and its benefits, announced the selection of Mychal Tetteh as their new CEO. “We are excited to welcome Mychal back to the Community Cycling Center and we are confident he will hit the ground […]
Radio Room to host benefit for the Community Cycling Center August 19, 2013 – Portland, Ore. – Have you measured the miles of sidewalks, bike lanes, and streetcar tracks in the Portland Metro area? Start studying now for the third installment of Transportation Trivia Night, a benefit for the nonprofit, Community Cycling Center. Radio Room […]
Patrick Loftus; Service Manager Figuring out how to comfortably and safely carry stuff on your bike can greatly improve your riding experience. In this shop tip we’ll look at the pros and cons of various commute-friendly ways to carry stuff while riding your bike. Backpack or messenger bag: This is the easiest and most […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist RANDI. Volunteer and Outreach Manager. Randi will ride anywhere as long as she is with a group of people on bikes. She’ll even climb hills or go down them quickly if her peers are involved. Her main solo route is the Alameda ridge with its twisty, turny roads, great […]
Community Cycling Center’s Rummage Sale – Sunday, August 25th Sale features great deals on over 100 hand tools, repair stands, and more August 5, 2013 – Portland, Ore. – The Community Cycling Center is gearing up for a rummage sale on Sunday, August 25th, from 10am – 2pm. The event will take place at their […]
By Claire Lyons, Bike Camp participant Hey fellow Bike Campers! My name is Claire Lyons. I’m 12 years old, going into the 7th grade and just recently attended the Food Cart Freewheelers camp. I signed up because I love to eat good food and find out about fun food options in the local area. This […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist EVAN. Holiday Bike Drive Production Coordinator/Service Coordinator/Mechanic. Evan, a jokester, says he’s lived here too long to ride his bike. Truthfully, he prefers to stay in his neighborhood, Northeast. But, like everyone else, he loves a good Zoobomb. CARL. Mechanic. Carl is adventurous. He loves Zoobombing […]
By: Noel Mickelberry, Development Coordinator Are you ready for the third installment of Transportation Trivia Night? Have you measured the miles of sidewalks, bike lanes, and streetcar tracks in the Portland Metro area? I hope you included some international and pop culture research as well. Studied up or not, we hope to see you all […]
Theo and Andrea, two Bike Camp Instructors, share with us their experience of teaching Mechanics Camp, a brand new camp we are offering for the first time this year. Part 2: Andrea’s story Bike Camp 2013 – Mechanics Camp: Ten teens gather with two instructors to learn about bike mechanics, ride around the city, and […]
Theo and Andrea, two Bike Camp Instructors, share with us their experience of teaching Mechanics Camp, a brand new camp we are offering for the first time this year. Part 1: Theo’s story As anyone who has been stuck with a flat tire for the first time will know, it is deeply empowering to learn […]
Hello everyone, I am Mike Conway, the new Development Manager for the Community Cycling Center. I am honored to join the passionate team at the Community Cycling Center to further its mission to broaden access to bicycling and its benefits. As an avid bike rider, and from my graduate research on bicycling interventions, I am […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Residents of New Columbia and staff from the Community Cycling Center and Home Forward celebrated the grand opening of the new Bike Skills Park with a bike safety fair last week. The new park, located adjacent to the Bike Repair Hub on the corner of N. Trenton Street […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist Marinuesa earned a bike at a Create a Commuter workshop in February and wasted no time making it her own. She named her KHS “Black Beauty” and attached a basket to the rear rack draped with a Brazilian flag. Marinuesa grew up in Brazil on a farm. “We all […]
New Columbia Celebrates Grand Opening of New Bike Skills Park Project made possible by a $15,500 grant from PDC July 22, 2013 – Portland, Ore. – Residents of New Columbia and staff from the Community Cycling Center and Home Forward celebrated the grand opening of the new Bike Skills Park with a bike safety fair […]
By Mike Conway, Development Manager Steinbeck once wrote, “You don’t take a trip; a trip takes you.” So appropriate is this quote for my first foray into the world of Cycle Oregon Weekend Ride, the premier weekend bicycling adventure. As the new Development Manager for the Community Cycling Center, I was invited to partake in […]
By David Kurushima, Retail Manager It’s prime touring season, the perfect time to head out on two wheels for a long trip. Whether you are making a day-trip to the Gorge or riding cross country with the kitchen sink, you are probably going to find yourself far from a bike a shop and in need […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager This week, we’re putting the finishing touches on New Columbia’s Bike Skills Park, located adjacent to the Bike Repair Hub on the corner of N. Trenton Street and N. Woolsey Avenue. The park, opening in July, will offer a safe riding area for neighbors of all ages. Participants […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Our summer Bike Camps launched last week with 48 campers convening at our bike shop at 9am on Monday morning. On Friday, we caught up with Lucia, daughter of Susana Pacheco, a member of Andando en Bicicletas en Cully at Hacienda. You may remember Lucia, as she is […]
By Kelly Hansen, Community Cycling Center Program Manager As the sun comes out and more people of all ages hit the road on their bikes, the Community Cycling Center presents 5 tips for keeping adults and kids safe on bikes this summer: Perform a personal safety check. Before you even get on the bicycle, it’s […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager This spring, bike committee members from Hacienda CDC and New Columbia spent six weeks immersed in a comprehensive ride leader training course taught by Community Cycling Center staff members. They learned everything from rules of the road, to bike safety checks, to communicating with children, and more. The […]
Patrick Loftus; Service Manager This month’s shop tip will cover different styles of helmets, how to properly fit your helmet, and accessories that go well with helmets. General notes on bike helmets: All bike helmets meet the same minimum federal safety standards. They will deteriorate over time due to UV and sweat exposure. It’s good […]
By Noel Mickelberry, Development Coordinator On Friday, May 31st, a group of 178 supporters, volunteers, and new friends joined us at our new workshop space, filled with bikes, beer, and BBQ, to celebrate the completion of our most ambitious spring fundraising campaign to date. Our goal was to raise $20,000 during the month of May. […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist We have stuffed our bike shop to the gills with locally made bags in preparation for your summer bike adventures! During the month of June, buy any North St. or Black Star bag and we’ll give you FREE Community Cycling Center stainless commuter coffee mug. We’re really excited […]
Celebration includes Russell Street Bar-B-Que, Hopworks, Metrofiets, a bike museum, and more May 20, 2013 – Portland, Ore. – The Community Cycling Center is celebrating their new workshop space with a spring fundraising party on Friday, May 31st, from 7:00 to 10:00pm. During the event, the Center will offer sandwiches from Russell St. Bar-B-Que, mini […]
By Gwen Koon, Service Mechanic The Radbot™ 1000 has absolutely knocked my socks off for one simple reason: in the two months I’ve had it, the Radbot has yet to spontaneously turn itself on while floating around in my messenger bag. This is huge, folks! And, unlike most of its competition, the Radbot’s light continues to operate at […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist On December 12, 2010, Dan earned a bicycle through a Create a Commuter workshop at Central City Concern. Since then he started working at Salvation Army, and became an avid bike commuter. Dan takes a lot of pride in his bike. He bought a trip meter so that he […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer & Outreach Manager Maggie is a delight to work with both inside our shop, during community events and in our earn-a-bike workshops. She is a smart, flexible, and fun volunteer, and certainly knows how to have a good time while teaching community members about their bikes. Maggie is a very dedicated […]
By: Noel Mickelberry, Development Coordinator This May, we’re celebrating two very important things: our spring fundraising campaign and our new workshop space. What better way to celebrate both than a workshop-warming party and fundraiser all in one? We’re going all out for this one. Delicious food, tasty beer, a photo booth room, a bike […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist Jon Erickson is doing something incredible with bicycles. As a middle school teacher at Metro Montessori, he is using bikes to teach math and science to his students, helping them run their own business and become a mobile classroom. Jon heard about the Community Cycling Center through friends when […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist I arrived at the Bike Repair Hub in New Columbia on Saturday, April 6th, not knowing what to expect. I hadn’t been to the Hub since the ribbon cutting ceremony back in September, and I was eager to see it in action. Forrest, one of our mechanics, was bent […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist For the month of May, our bike shop is highlighting locally owned cycling sundry companies and locally made bicycle products! Check out our new bags from North St. and Black Star and our new line-up of lights by Portland Design Works. Also, stop by to see our regular selections of […]
By Noel Mickelberry, Development Coordinator This spring, we’re going big. On May 1st, we’re kicking off our spring fundraising campaign – with the goal to raise $20,000 in one ambitious month. Funds raised during this campaign will enable us to continue and expand our work empowering individuals and building capacity in underserved neighborhoods and respond […]
We are bummed, but mainly very proud, to announce that after five amazing years, our firecracker Development Manager, Breesa, is leaving the Community Cycling Center. Early next month, she’ll return to her alma mater, Reed College, as their new Assistant Director of the Annual Fund. Beginning in 2008, Breesa put her enthusiasm, smarts, and smile […]
By Patrick Loftus, Service Manager Properly locking your bike is the best way to keep it for a long time. Quality bike locks can be expensive, but they last for years and are much cheaper than buying a new bike. I recommend locking your bike at home, even if it is parked in a locked […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist On December 12, 2010, Juan earned a bicycle through a Create a Commuter workshop at Central City Concern. Two and a half years later, he is still riding. I met up with Juan and his former employment specialist, Christina, last week to talk about his experience and what it […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist You don’t need to know how to build a bike to build a bike. If you want to learn, Gram Shipley, our Used Inventory Coordinator and resident bike-building expert, believes in you. As Gram says, “It’s not rocket science. It’s only wrenches and there’s a lot of free info. […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager On April 10th, great news arrived at the Community Cycling Center – we received a Metro Regional Transportation Options Grant! This funding gives us the opportunity to continue our collaborative work with our partner agencies in Cully and Portsmouth over the next two years. We will be able […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager “White folks don’t see racism because they don’t have to. They have the luxury of being oblivious to other peoples’ reality,” said Tim Wise to a packed house of about 2,000 at PSU’s Stott Center last Wednesday. “If that indifference to inequality continues, we’re not going to survive […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer and Outreach Manager Marbry makes us look good. Literally. For over five years, she’s supported us by lending her design expertise to our fundraising and communications teams. Thanks to Marbry’s patient, talented design abilities, we published our Understanding Barriers to Bicycling report and have created engaging and beautiful fundraising collateral that […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist What is your teen up to this summer? We’d love to have them join us this year at Bike Camp, where we have a great selection of adventures for older youth. Grades 6-8 In our Food Cart Freewheelers camp, tweens and younger teens will chose their destination, create a […]
By Kelly Hansen, Program Manager A hip hop symphony. A Colombian politician. The Community Cycling Center’s program manager. This is no dream – this is the 2013 Youth Bike Summit. For the third year in a row, New York City’s community based bike shop and bike education leader, Recycle a Bicycle (RAB), hosted the Youth […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist We have a lot of great bikes for sale. We have refurbished bikes that are all fixed up and ready to go. We have as-is bikes that need a little love to be road-ready. But that is not all – we have hundreds of bike frames, and thousands of […]
By David Kurushima, Retail Manager As with almost any product review, this one is not for every rider and certainly not every bike, but hear me out—reflective stickers, locally made reflective stickers from BLAQ, are worth your consideration. Now I know many of you wince at the thought of adhering anything to your beautiful carbon steed, […]
By Noel Mickelberry, Development Coordinator Our second Transportation Trivia Night fundraiser was tougher, rowdier and more successful than we could have imagined. For those of you who haven’t been to one of our Transportation Trivia Nights, trust us when we say: when you get a bunch of transportation wonks in one room, things get wild. […]
By Lale Santelices, Create a Commuter Instructor In February, Rafael participated in our Create a Commuter program in partnership with Easter Seals, a nonprofit organization that provides services, education, outreach, and advocacy so that people living with disabilities can live, learn, work and play in our communities. During the workshop, Rafael and a group of […]
News Release For Immediate Release Community Cycling Center to host second Transportation Trivia Night at Radio Room Transportation Trivia Night is a benefit for the Community Cycling Center, with prizes from North St. Bags, Bikeasaurus, Trailhead Coffee, and Radio Room March 11, 2013 – Portland, Ore. – Back by popular demand – this […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager “Last year, a car hit my grandson as he rode his bike,” Rosie explained. Rosie’s 8-year old grandson wore a helmet and escaped with a few minor bumps and bruises, but this incident made an impression on her. “I hate wearing a helmet. It’s hot and sweaty, and […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer & Outreach Manager Melissa made a big splash when they joined our Volunteer Program. With a knack for creating inclusive and inviting learning spaces, and an excitement for sharing knowledge, Melissa is a strong presence in our shop and programs. In less than a year, Melissa excelled in our bike shop, […]
An inside look at the Basic Bike Maintenance class By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Before joining the Community Cycling Center, my bike maintenance skills were limited. I knew the importance of keeping my tires full of air, my chain clean and lubed, and I could do some minor brake adjustments, but for the […]
Our Executive Director, Alison Graves, will be leaving the Community Cycling Center. Her last day is Thursday, March 14th. The Board of Directors is focused on establishing a robust recruitment process that will result in a rich pool of qualified applicants. We expect to have the formal job posting available late March. In the meantime, […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager For those that do not know, the Community Cycling Center actually has two locations – our retail bike shop on Alberta Street, and our programs and administrative office, which is currently located at MLK Boulevard. On the weekend of March 2nd, we are relocating our programs and administrative […]
By Patrick Loftus, Service Manager If you’ve been riding your bike all winter, it might be time to replace your brake pads. With all the water and grit on the roads, brake pads wear a lot faster in winter. If you let them go too far, you risk damaging your rims. In this month’s shop […]
By: Noel Mickelberry Back by popular demand! This isn’t just any trivia night. It’s Transportation Trivia Night – a fundraiser for the Community Cycling Center! Last August we held our first ever transportation-themed trivia night fundraiser at the Radio Room – and were blown away by the turn out, and how much fun the entire […]
By Peter Weisberg, Volunteer Storyteller On Friday, January 25th, I interviewed Lourdes Montes, a Community Bike Educator from Hacienda’s Andando en Bicicletas en Cully (ABC). I rode out to Cully for the interview with Omar Casillas, the Community Cycling Center’s Community Collaborations Manager. Omar and I met Lourdes at a taqueria across the street […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer & Outreach Manager Since his start as a volunteer over a year ago, Charles enhances our weekly volunteer program of wrenching on tiny bikes with his casual, upbeat personality and meticulous attention to detail. He has a knack for teaching with patience and articulates the complexities of bike maintenance with the […]
By Omar Casillas, Community Collaborations Manager On Tuesday, January 29th, New Columbia residents gathered to take part in a design workshop for a new bike skills park in their neighborhood. Landscape architects and planners from MIG, Inc. facilitated the event and worked with community members to come up with creative bike skills park designs. Members […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer and Outreach Manager Our volunteers know how to have a good time and Volunteer Appreciation Night on January 29th was no exception. The shop was abuzz with friendly conversations and laughter as volunteers caught up with old friends and made new ones. The passion and sense of community volunteers bring to […]
Dear Friends, Today I am writing to announce that after seven incredible years as a Community Cycling Center staff member — three years as Executive Director — I am embarking on a new adventure. I’m leaving because I have an opportunity of a lifetime. As you may know, my husband, Jay Graves, recently retired after […]
The search for a new director will commence by March 1 Feb. 1, 2013 – Portland, Ore. – The Community Cycling Center board of directors announces that Executive Director Alison Hill Graves is departing the organization. She and her husband Jay Graves, who recently retired after 39 years at Bike Gallery, a business that he and […]
By Omar Casillas, Community Collaborations Manager Yvette Maranowski joined We All Can Ride, New Columbia’s bike committee, in April of 2012. She is a regular volunteer at the Bike Repair Hub, which opened in October. How did you get involved with We All Can Ride? I got involved because a colleague, one of the two […]
Registration begins on February 1st January 28, 2013 – Portland, Ore. – This summer, Community Cycling Center’s Bike Camp program returns with two new Bike Camps: the Food Cart Freewheelers Camp and Mechanics Camp. The Bike Camp curriculum will offer more variety for both returning and new campers. At Bike Camp, kids ages 6 through […]
By Kelly Hansen, Program Manager Online Registration for Bike Camp opens February 1st! # 1: New camps In the off season we held several focus groups with both campers and their trusted adults to find out what is working and what we can improve. Based on their feedback, we developed two brand new camps: the […]
By David Kurushima, Retail Manager So if you read our past three product reviews I can only assume that you are now thoroughly enjoying your fully winter-ized bicycle complete with rugged tires, grippy pedals, and some locally-made water-proof panniers. Well, now that your bike is set, what about you? As a content winter cyclist or […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer & Outreach Manager Pam is a regular on the Tuesday Drop-In scene at our bike shop after volunteering at the Holiday Bike Drive in 2011. Never one to hesitate, Pam jumps into any bike project and is a wonderful teacher to those who are learning alongside her. In addition to bringing […]
By Breesa Culver, Development Manager A hearty thank you to everyone who contributed during our winter fundraising campaign! Thanks to those who rounded up their bills at the bike shop, attended the Sneak Peek, donated online, and mailed in checks, we are within spitting distance of our $130,000 goal. The winter campaign is one of […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager It’s time to gather your friends, brainstorm your costume, and most importantly, register, because the 12th annual Worst Day of the Year Ride is happening on February 10th and it is not to be missed. The ride – a benefit for the Community Cycling Center – has quickly […]
Over the past few months, your bike has seen rain, mud, and the dreaded wintry mix. It could probably use some love. We want to make it easy for you. This January and February, we’ll take $100 off the cost of all bike refurbishments. We’ll put the same love and care into your bike that […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist On November 30th we conducted our second Create a Commuter workshop in Spanish at Hacienda CDC. Several committee members from Andando en Bicicletas en Cully (ABC) not only earned bikes, but they also led portions of the workshop – a Create a Commuter first. Yeni discussed the importance of […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist I sat down with Jonnie Ling, our Director of Operations, for a little Q&A session. Jonnie began working at the Community Cycling Center in 2008, and has contributed greatly to the success of our organization through various roles and capacities over the years. Lets discover the mystery behind this […]
By Patrick Loftus; Service Manager How you contact your bike is crucial to your comfort, safety, and control. The three main contact points are the handlebars, seat, and pedals. This month’s shop tip will cover different types of pedals, their best use, pros/cons of each, and, for the true bike shop experience, my completely biased […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist On Sunday, December 9th, 440 children lit up the atrium of Legacy Emanuel Hospital with huge smiles. Before choosing their new bikes, they learned how to be safe on the road, how to safely fit and snap on their new helmets, and many other hands-on lessons designed to make […]
By Breesa Culver, Development Manager We are so lucky. More than a hundred of our amazing supporters and neighbors came together on Wednesday night for the Holiday Bike Drive Sneak Peek – our annual winter fundraiser. The rooms of our bike shop quickly filled with smiling supporters who caught up with old friends and made […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist Our Holiday Gift Pack special is a fantastic way to score great deals and great gifts this season. Through the end of December, shop for items in either the DIY Pack, the Upgrade Pack, or the Commuter Pack and save up to 30%. We’ve put together some sample packs […]
By David Kurushima, Retail Manager Well it’s fair to say that the care-free days of summer have long passed out of sight from the scope of your helmet mirror. No more Sunday Parkways in your Birkenstocks. No more putting off buying those fenders, and that sweet bike you picked-up at a yard sale and rode […]
By Omar Casillas, Community Collaborations Manager Abdullahi stood on a chair and raised a helmet high above his head as the other kids counted down. 5…4…3… Even before the group finished counting, the helmet hit the ground…hard. I had my doubts about whether the egg that Abdullahi and his two buddies had carefully wrapped in […]
By Stasia Honnold, Instructor When Richard leaned his bike against his fence and hurried into his house, my co-instructor Joseph and I weren’t sure what to think. But before we could even look at each other and shrug, he burst out the front door again carrying his tiny Chihuahua, which he proceeded to give every […]
Our 17th annual Holiday Bike Drive is just around the corner. To celebrate the spirit of this event, share a photo of your first bike and enter to win a light set from Portland Design Works, a Double Darn cap, or the latest issue of Taking the Lane (featuring cover art by our very own […]
This December, over 400 underserved children will choose their very first bicycles at our 17th annual Holiday Bike Drive. Check out the video below featuring Alicia and Diego Sanchez, who share their memories of how bikes have affected their family after Alicia received her first bike in 2010. To celebrate the spirit of the Holiday […]
The 17th annual Holiday Bike Drive is right around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than a party at the bike shop? Join us on Wednesday, December 5th, from 6:30-9pm at our bike shop for the 3rd annual Holiday Bike Drive Sneak Peek. – Enjoy beer, wine, snacks, and music. – Take advantage […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator Sam is a regular at our Tuesday Drop-In nights, supporting us in many ways like wrenching bikes as a Holiday Bike Drive Certified Mechanic, and truing wheels in the Guest Mechanic program. He is keen to soak up any knowledge about bike part compatibility and recently finished a […]
By Noel Mickelberry, Development Coordinator This fall, the 9th annual Willamette Week Give!Guide will feature 110 local nonprofits in an effort to encourage people under the age of 36 to become involved philanthropically in the Portland area. We are incredibly honored to be included in this year’s fund drive. During its first eight years, the […]
By Joseph Rosevear, Instructor Think about the last time you rode a bicycle. For participants in last week’s Create a Commuter workshop at the Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA), it ranged from “one week ago” to “over ten years.” Five of the participants had not ridden in over seven years. The first group […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager This holiday season, find great gifts at our shop for the bike lovers in your life and save big! We’re offering three types of gift packs – Commuter, DIY, and Upgrade. Each category has dozens of items to choose from. Shop from November 15th through December 31st and […]
By Stasia Honnold, Instructor From atop a shiny green Raleigh, Troy smiles nervously. “That was scary,” he says, slowly breaking into a huge grin, “but awesome!” Troy, a 6th grader at Harvey Scott School, has just finished leading our line of Bike Club participants, eleven 4th, 5th, and 6th graders. He has been in charge […]
By Breesa Culver, Development Manager It’s that time of year when comfort food is called for and what better way to enjoy it than when proceeds from your meal support a cause you believe in? On October 30th, Fifteenth Avenue Hophouse will donate 15% of their sales between the hours of 6 and 9 pm to […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist Last Tuesday, October 16th, members of Hacienda CDC’s resident-led bike committee, Andando en Bicicletas en Cully (ABC), New Columbia’s We All Can Ride, and staff from Verde and the Community Cycling Center, met to share stories and best practices with regards to bike advocacy in their communities. Even though […]
By Jonnie Ling, Bike Shop General Manager The neighborhood was quiet when we first arrived at the Hub. “The Hub” is what we call the 200 square foot building we constructed at New Columbia to teach basic bike maintenance and safe riding skills. I was there with two fellow staff members, four Community Cycling Center […]
By Patrick Loftus, Service Manager Just because the rain is around the corner doesn’t mean you have to put the bike away. Riding in the rain can be a pleasant experience, if you’re prepared. Wool, water proof/resistant shoes, and wearing multiple layers are great places to start. Today we’ll cover various strategies to keep you comfortable […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Haven’t been able to make it to the New Columbia Bike Repair Hub? Sit back and enjoy this video produced by Dan Kaufman of CrankMyChain! Cycle TV. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at some of the people and partnerships involved in transforming a vacant lot in the New […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator In this month’s Volunteer Spotlight we’re highlighting the stellar volunteers who join us, behind the scenes, as members of the Community Connections Committee. The Community Connections Committee puts the fun in FUNdraising. They help us in all of our grassroots fundraising efforts – from organizing bake sales to […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager The bilingual exhibit, Clever Together: Our Everyday Choices/Juntos somos ingeniosos: Una decisión a la vez, is OMSI’s latest permanent installment. Clever Together is on display in OMSI’s newly transformed Earth Science Hall for the next roughly eight years. The exhibit encourages visitors to make more sustainable decisions by […]
By Joseph Rosevear, Instructor On the 1st of October, we partnered with Portland Youth Builders for the first Create a Commuter workshop of the season. It was a fantastic event with ten participants ages 18 – 24. Portland Youth Builders focuses on supporting young men and women who are committed to changing their lives to […]
Anne Lee, our Deputy Director, just launched her first book, Where to Bike Portland. The book is aimed at the recreational cyclist, and offers rides from 3 miles to 70 miles. There really is something for everyone. Anne is leading two rides that are featured in her book and you are invited to join her. […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist Fall is officially here, and with it comes the rain, the darkness, and the cold. It would be very easy to feel gloomy, but before you do that, check out our new shop special for October: 10% off new and used parts and accessories (including frames) when it’s raining. […]
By David Kurushima, Retail Manager Portland is home to 59 miles of unpaved roads. For some cyclists, these irregularities in our city streets might make for some challenging, if not dicey, moments in their daily commutes. For others, they can be a delightful detour opportunity. Regardless of one’s particular disposition towards these urban country roads, […]
By Breesa Culver, Development Manager Last week, four Community Cycling Center staff members, 14 volunteers, and one very talented event planner headed south to join the traveling circus that is Cycle Oregon to raise money for our community programs. We arrived back in Portland last Saturday with sunburns, hoarse voices, so much dirt and bike […]
Join us! We’re celebrating the launch of the new cycling book, Where to Bike Portland! The book, written by our Deputy Director, Anne Lee, is geared toward recreational cyclists and families. This is the first Pacific Northwest book in the Where to Bike guidebook series published by Bicycling Australia. When: Monday, October 1, 2012 from […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager In just 10 quick days, students from Oregon College of Art & Craft and Pacific Northwest College of Art transformed a vacant lot into a beautiful bike repair space at New Columbia. Made possible with support from Bikes Belong, the Coon Family Foundation, the Portland Development Commission, the […]
By Lara Sheets, Program Support Specialist This summer, 8 instructors educated 445 youth on rules of the road and basic bike maintenance. They empowered campers, encouraging them to take on new and exciting challenges, like riding out to Rocky Butte and Sauvie Island. As one parent shared: “My eight year old loved Bike Camp. It […]
By Noel Mickelberry, Development Coordinator In a whirlwind month, we were able to raise $13,629 from our amazing supporters to make the Bike Repair Hub at New Columbia a reality. Not only that, but the Bike Gallery is generously donating $5,000 to match these efforts. We are astounded and honored by the support of this […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist The Pack a Pannier special was so successful (and so fun) in August that we’re extending it to September. If you’re thinking about gearing up to go back to school, or to commute in the rainy season, now’s the time! Here’s the deal: Visit the shop on a Wednesday […]
Every Saturday, Ihe gets out his helmet, gets on his bike, and joins up with his neighbors to go on a group ride. The grassroots bicycle group at New Columbia, “We All Can Ride”, has been teaching Ihe bike safety and the joy of riding. Through the Saturday rides, Ihe has taken on a leadership […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist On August 22nd, the Advanced Girls Bike Camp rode to the track in Fernhill Park to meet with Nissy Cobb, our New Inventory Specialist at the Community Cycling Center. Nissy is also a highly skilled track bike racer. She competes weekly, and trains up to 6 hours a day […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist Michelle Hanna is a great example of what can happen when you make biking accessible to everyone. A few years ago she earned a bike through our Create a Commuter program, and has since become very involved with We All Can Ride, a resident-led bike committee at New Columbia. […]
We are so excited to transform a vacant lot into a beautiful Bicycle Repair Hub in the New Columbia neighborhood. Please join us on September 5th to celebrate this inspired project. What: Ribbon-cutting celebration + tour the Bike Repair Hub When: September 5th, 2012, 5:30pm – 7:00pm. Tours begin at 5:30, ribbon-cutting, cake, and celebration […]
By Patrick Loftus, Service Manager Carrying a few of the right tools will help you get out of a jam, and might keep you from walking home or taking the bus. Beyond a helmet, lights, and a lock, here’s a list of recommended items to carry with you on your commute, in order of importance: […]
By Noel Mickelberry, Development Coordinator Who knew so many people in this city love transportation AND trivia? Over 80 people joined us at the Radio Room last night to partake in the battle of obscure transportation trivia, and a battle it was. We had tie-breakers at the end of each round and some heavily contested […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist David Kurushima has been promoted since we last checked in with him. He is now our Retail Manager. From what we sell to creating a welcoming environment in the bike shop, David is the guy making sure you have a top notch experience. He is also very involved with […]
By Lara Sheets, Program Support Specialist Every summer, our Bike Camp program works with Self Enhancement, Inc. interns to help lead our youth safely on the road. SEI is a nonprofit organization that helps “at-risk African-American urban youth realize their potential.” This season, we’ve had the wonderful opportunity to work with Kiara Berry who joined […]
My family moved to Portland from Togo. Moving to a new environment isn’t easy. But the magic gift of a new bike helped me to get out and explore. I received my first bike through the Community Cycling Center’s Holiday Bike Drive. Rolling through the neighborhood and exploring Portland gave me such joy. In 2010, […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist The Pack a Pannier special was so successful (and so fun) in August that we’re extending it to September. If you’re thinking about gearing up to go back to school, or to commute in the rainy season, now’s the time! We sell three different kinds of panniers in our […]
Did you nab a ticket to Cycle Oregon this year? We did too! Sort of. For the past twelve years, we’ve helped riders roll smoothly over breathtaking rural roads by offering bike detailing and electronics charging while out on the road. We’d love to see you there and get your bikes spiffed up during this […]
By Jonnie Ling, Shop General Manager On Saturday August 4th, the hottest day of the summer so far, the Community Cycling Center and Journey to Freedom co-hosted an African American Heritage ride in N and NE Portland. Young people participating in Journey to Freedom’s “Book and Boot Camp” geared up at 11:00 AM after a […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Our Bike Donation Campaign ended on July 30th, and thanks to our donors, we collected a grand total of 313 bicycles in one month! This was our very first Bike Donation Campaign at the shop, and we came so close to meeting our goal of collecting 400 bikes. […]
Something has been happening at the shop on Tuesday Nights over the last few months: raw energy and enthusiasm for anything and everything bikes. What, might you ask, is the source? Kevin and two of our youngest volunteers, Nash and Owen! Since early this year, Kevin has been volunteering with us and bringing with him […]
Community Cycling Center to Build a Bicycle Repair Hub in North Portland Neighborhood The new facility will be built in August in an effort to eliminate barriers to bicycling often experienced by Portland’s communities of color and low-income neighborhoods. August 1, 2012 – Portland, Ore. – The Community Cycling Center announced today it is forging […]
Radio Room to host Transportation-Themed Trivia Night Trivia night is a benefit for the Community Cycling Center, with prizes from Showers Pass, North St. Bags, Toro Bravo, and more! July 27, 2012 – Portland, Ore. – Think you know your bike lanes from your bioswales? Join the Community Cycling Center on August 15th at the […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist In September 2010, the Community Cycling Center participated in an equity audit by the Center for Diversity and the Environment. Its purpose was to determine how well we were relating on issues of racial and ethnic equity, diversity, and inclusion. The audit helped us identify areas to improve: increasing […]
By David Kurushima, Retail Supervisor We’re having a Pack-a-Pannier special in the shop! That means every Wednesday and Thursday in August, pack a pannier with accessories and take 20% off the bag and everything in it. If you’re reading this, I can bet we have two things in common: 1) You ride a bike, and […]
By Kim Whitney, Youth Programs Manager This past weekend, we broke records on miles and fun at our fourth annual Kids Camp through the Cycle Oregon Weekend Ride, a family focused off-shoot of Cycle Oregon. This year’s ride took place on the Oregon State University Campus in Corvallis. At Kids Camp, youth ages 5 – […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist Jim Milne began volunteering with the Community Cycling Center in February of 2011. He quickly racked up over 400 volunteer hours, participating in everything from Salvage Sundays to the Holiday Bike Drive and the Guest Mechanic program. “Jim has a fair amount of knowledge about a lot of things,” […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator With his one year volunteer anniversary coming up, Noah has easily become a familiar face to Tuesday Drop-In Nights and has met any challenge we’ve thrown his way. He has the capacity to find humor in anything, and we appreciate that! Noah learns quickly, listens, and is excited […]
By Lale Santelices, Bike Camp Instructor “After camp, I can’t wait to ride my bike in the real world!”— Ubong This summer, Ubong, an 11 year old boy, earned a bicycle through our Bike Camp at Faubion Elementary School. This was not just any bicycle; Ubong earned a means for independence in the shape of […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Ellee Thalheimer has written a guide book – Cycling Sojourner: A Guide to the Best Multi-Day Tours in Oregon. It’s the first guidebook of its kind to give high-quality, in-depth coverage for riders with all budgets and levels of cycle touring experience. In addition to providing complete cue […]
By Noel Mickelberry, Development Coordinator Think you know your bike lanes from your bioswales? Join us on August 15th at Radio Room for a benefit trivia night and put your knowledge to the test. This special evening will be dedicated to all the transportation trivia (local, national, maybe even international!) that you can wrap your […]
By Zan Gibbs, Adult Programs Manager According to the City of Portland, roughly 23,700 people showed up for the North Portland Sunday Parkways on June 24th. We spent the day with We All Can Ride, New Columbia’s bike committee, in a lot on the corner of N. Trenton Street and N. Woolsey Avenue in the […]
When you donate a bike to the Community Cycling Center, we will put it to good use in our community programs for low-income families or in our bike shop. Our goal is to collect 400 bicycles at our bike shop during the month of July. We need bikes of all sizes in good condition. The […]
By Patrick Loftus, Service Manager Last month we covered how to replace a flat tube with a new one. This month we’ll show you how to patch the tube. To patch a punctured tube, you will need a patch kit containing patches, glue, and emery cloth or sandpaper. Traditional patches tend to give a more […]
By Heidi Beierle, Volunteer Storyteller On April 21, 2012, the Community Cycling Center engaged a group of young adults at Open Meadow in a Create a Commuter workshop. We followed up with one of those participants nearly two months and many sunny days later to learn how the gift of a bicycle and some cycling […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator Alicia has had a long and committed history with us as a volunteer. Her work as Policy Intern in 2009 yielded a collaborative advocacy plan that continues to guide our work within affordable housing communities. In our ongoing community programs, Alicia helps facilitate Create a Commuter workshops, lends […]
By Zan Gibbs, Adult Programs Manager On Thursday, June 7th, we offered our third Create a Commuter workshop to the Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization (IRCO). IRCO is the leading refugee organization in Oregon and Southwest Washington, empowering refugees and immigrants to become self-sufficient, long-term contributors to the economic vitality of the community. We had […]
By Kim Whitney, Youth Programs Manager We have some exciting news! We are partnering with Harvey Scott Elementary to expand our camps to the NE Cully Neighborhood for the week of June 18 – 22nd. The Cruisers Camp for 8-11 year olds at Harvey Scott is the same awesome camp that we offer at our […]
By Noel Mickelberry, Development Coordinator Our spring campaign ended on May 31st and, thanks to our tremendous donors, we raised a grand total of $12,346 in just over a month. Our campaign kicked off on April 27th with Building Momentum, a party in the shop where we presented our new strategic vision for the next […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist We would love to help you build the bike of your dreams! For the month of June, buy a bike frame and you not only save 20% on the frame, but we’ll also take 20% off all used parts. We have more than 40 bike frames, everything from mountain […]
By Omar Martinez This article is re-posted with full permission from the League of American Bicyclists. I’ve been interested in cycling all of my life, since I was a kid. But growing up and in college, cycling was about racing. Living in Arkansas, riding to work wasn’t a safe or comfortable option. It wasn’t until […]
By Patrick Loftus, Service Manager Being able to fix your own flat will save you time, money, and frustration. To replace a tube, you will need a tire lever, a pump, and, if you don’t have a quick release wheel, you will need a wrench to get your wheel off. Step 1: remove the wheel […]
By Alison Graves, Executive Director What is total health and how do we build it? That was our charge on Monday, May 21, at the Kaiser Permanente Grantee Summit. More than 300 people gathered from dozens of organizations from around Oregon and Washington, all funded through the Kaiser Permanente Community Fund. Thanks to the Kaiser […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager In January of 2010, residents of Hacienda CDC participated in a PhotoVoice project by taking over 150 images that documented barriers to active living for children and families living in their affordable housing community. PhotoVoice is a powerful advocacy tool that brings to life the voices and concerns […]
By Lara Sheets, Program Support Specialist On Thursday, May 17th, 32 volunteers from Wieden + Kennedy pulled up to our shop on a warm, sunny day in a bright yellow school bus. They arrived eager and excited to get their hands dirty painting and cleaning 17 kids bikes for our annual Holiday Bike Drive. After […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist Yesterday I met up with Tom, a former Create a Commuter participant, at Floyd’s coffee shop in Old Town to find out how his life had changed since earning a bike in March through our workshop with Central City Concern. He immediately scrolled through his cell phone to find […]
Monday is the last chance to score our Monday MAYhem deal on new and used parts and accessories on our bike shop. (Remember: say “narwhal” at the register to get the 20% discount.) Check out some of our great new products: Come visit our bike shop to see our complete selection of gear, and don’t […]
Looking for fun activities for your kids this summer? There are still plenty of spaces left in our Bike Camp program. Register online today to ensure your child’s spot in one of the best active camps in Portland. Ages 6-8 July 16 – CO10 Coasters: Ages 6-8 – 7 spots available July 30 – CO06 Coasters: […]
By Zan Gibbs, Adult Program Manager On Thursday, May 10th, we offered our second Create a Commuter workshop to the Portland Opportunities Industrialization Center (POIC). At POIC, they reconnect alienated, at-risk youth affected by poverty, family instability and homelessness; with high school education and career training. We had 14 excited young adults arrive on a […]
By Breesa Culver, Development Manager The upstairs of the Gerding Theater at the Armory was filled with gussied up transportation professionals on Tuesday night. They were gathered to celebrate women’s work – specifically women’s roles in the fields of transportation planning, advocacy, and engineering. The Women’s Transportation Seminar is an international organization dedicated to providing […]
By Noel Mickelberry, Development Coordinator Last week, I attended my first volunteer orientation on Tuesday night. Along with getting to see the great new faces interested in joining our volunteer team, I got to chat with several current volunteers about some of the special projects they are tackling in our bike shop. It is because […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator Jerome brightens our days with his boisterous, energetic personality ever since he joined our volunteer program last Fall. He has become a mainstay at both Sunday Recycling and Tuesday Drop-in nights and a strong addition to our growing Outreach Educator volunteer team, supporting community outreach events around the […]
By Lara Sheets, Program Support Specialist and Kim Whitney, Youth Programs Manager The warm and sunny days are upon us, which means Bike Camp is right around the corner. Our Cruisers and Urban Riders Bike Camps for kids ages 11 and older are a unique and fun way to build skills and knowledge while exploring […]
By Noel Mickelberry, Development Coordinator Mini-pies, donated bikes, a hula hoop covered in bike lights and our awesome supporters – who could ask for a better fundraising campaign kick-off? Last Friday, the bike shop was packed with people munching on tasty food, bobbing their heads to sweet soul tunes, and chatting away happily. They had […]
By Breesa Culver, Development Manager We are building a more inclusive bicycle economy + culture in Portland. Will you join us? For the past twelve months, we’ve been hard at work creating an updated strategic plan. Working with board members, strategic partners, and every single staff member, we are proud to have created a robust […]
This spring, we worked with Maya Rait, a talented sophomore student at Catlin Gabel, on a Create a Commuter video project. Every year as part of the media curriculum, Catlin Gabel students develop videos for community partners. This year they are creating video pieces for nonprofit organizations where they regularly perform community service to inspire […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Our partners at New Columbia—a revitalized community situated on 82 acres of land in North Portland—garnered national attention on Earth Day as they were featured in the Earth: The Operators’ Manual special that aired on PBS. In the video, Egbevado Ananouko, leader of We All Can Ride—a group […]
By Zan Gibbs, Adult Programs Manager On what was probably the best weather day yet for 2012, Saturday, April 21st, we held our 3rd annual Create a Commuter workshop with Open Meadow in North Portland. Eleven excited young adults received KHS bicycles, fully outfitted for all weather commuting! They were SUPER excited about the quality […]
By Breesa Culver, Development Manager For the past twelve months, we’ve been hard at work creating an updated strategic plan. Working with board members, strategic partners, and every single staff member, we are proud to have created a robust and inspiring road map for the next three years. The new plan lays out our strategy […]
By Patrick Loftus, Retail Service Manager Cleaning your rims is the least glamorous bike maintenance task, but will improve braking quality, prolong the life of your rims and brake pads, and keep your bike looking great, especially during the rainy season. It’s also a great opportunity to inspect the rims and brake pads for wear […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager Cycling Sojourner Book Launch Tuesday, May 8th at 6:30 River City Bicycles – 706 SE MLK Blvd. The wonderful Ellee Thalheimer has written a new kind of guide book – Cycling Sojourner: A Guide to the Best Multi-Day Tours in Oregon. We are honored to be a beneficiary […]
We’re offering a secret special during the month of May. When you stop by the shop on a Monday, be sure to say the secret word, NARWHAL, and you’ll get an amazing 20% off all new and used parts and accessories (including bike frames!). Get ready for spring and summer riding with this sweet deal. […]
By: Noel Mickelberry, Development Coordinator When a group of 15 smiling employees from The Standard rolled up to the Community Cycling Center on a sunny Friday afternoon, I knew we were in for a treat. The Standard participates in a volunteer group every year, while also matching their time with a generous donation to help […]
By Kim Whitney What Happened In the most recent budget review, the Portland Children’s Levy Allocation Committee members were tasked with cutting $3.7 million from their budget. According to the Children’s Levy staff, “These steep reductions are the result of reduced revenues because of a depressed housing market and compression of city property tax collections […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator We know Lucas is in the building because somewhere nearby there is laughter. Wherever we find him, he is all energy and enthusiasm; his positivity is infectious. Over the years, Lucas has helped on Tuesday Drop-in Nights, as a Certified Holiday Bike Drive Mechanic. But that is just […]
by Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist Bicycles
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager, and Laura Koch Our amazing Program Director, Laura Koch, will be transitioning out of her role to pursue her Masters in Public Health full-time. She has made an incredible contribution to the Community Cycling Center, primarily through our partner communities at New Columbia and Hacienda CDC. Below, Laura […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist In January we wrote about one of our volunteers, Ashley Haire. When we met Ashley she was new to fixing bikes. She said in the Volunteer Spotlight that she could “sort of change a bike tire.” Ashley threw herself into our volunteer program and before long she became a […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager We are excited to announce that the Portland Timbers have awarded us a $5,000 grant to support Bike Camp scholarships this summer! Through the Portland Timbers Community Fund, they award grants to local nonprofits working to foster healthier kids and communities. As grant recipients, we were invited to […]
We just wrapped up our Overhaul Special at our bike shop. We thought we’d celebrate by sharing some pictures of a bike before and after its complete overhaul – what a difference it has made! Our mechanics do such excellent work refurbishing bicycles. Thank you to everyone who participated in our shop special! Your dollars […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist Last Friday, March 23rd, I attended my first Create a Commuter workshop, which took place at Central City Concern in northwest Portland. As we lined up the bikes on the sidewalk outside of Central City Concern’s Old Town Recovery Center, dozens of spectators on the street admired the shiny […]
For the past twelve months, we’ve been hard at work creating an updated strategic plan. Working with board members, strategic partners, and every single staff member, we are proud to have created a robust and inspiring road map for the next three years. The new plan lays out our strategy to create a more inclusive […]
Here are some events happening in April: Tweed Ride April 1, 1pm Kenilworth Park, SE Holgate and SE 34th Read more Walk to Work Day April 6th Check the website for meetup locations Read more Race Talks Occupy Oregon: a coalition of color Tuesday April 10th, 7pm McMenamins Kennedy School, 5736 NE 33rd Read more […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist One of the many ways you can volunteer with the Community Cycling Center is by organizing a volunteer group with your coworkers and coming to our bike shop to clean bikes. When a bike is donated, it is usually in a pretty rough state. A thorough cleaning is the […]
By Alison Graves, Executive Director The time had come for blooming at the National Bike Summit this year. For the first time since I’ve attended the annual gathering, the cherry boughs throughout the district were heavy with light pink fragrant flowers. Also for the first time since I’ve been attending, a new branch of the […]
By Kim Whitney, Youth Program Manager For the last two years, Claire Fitzgerald rode with us in our Urban Riders and Advanced Riders bike camps, learning how to ride up and down hills safely, while exploring destinations far beyond NE Portland. When she wasn’t climbing multiple hills in a day with other teens, she spent […]
Someone broke into our shop and stole this refurbished $1,095 Klein Palomino bicycle (serial# WL1771819). Needless to say, we are upset about the loss of the bike and the damage to our shop. In addition, the break-in represents a loss of funding for our community programs, as proceeds from shop sales benefit all the work […]
By Christopher Hamann, Retail Supervisor As the buyer at the Community Cycling Center, I am always looking for local and fresh new items for our bike shop. I knew when I came across these tool rolls by Bike Cozy, that I’d found just that. They’re the cute and easy way to carry your basic tools […]
Bike Census and Repair Training Cultivate Community Bike Educators in Cully Residents from Hacienda CDC promote bicycling in partnership with the Community Cycling Center March 19, 2012 – Portland, Ore. – Andando en Bicicletas en Cully (ABC) – which translates to “Riding Bikes in Cully” – is a group of residents from Hacienda CDC, an […]
By Derek Burns, Volunteer Storyteller Hope and opportunity met on March 1st when a dozen new cyclists were given bikes as part of the Create a Commuter program. Thanks to a combined effort with S.E. Works’ Portland Partners Re-Entry Initiative – an agency dedicated to helping people successfully re-enter the Portland community after incarceration – riders […]
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager We were deeply saddened to learn of the shooting that occurred on Sunday at a New Columbia pocket park on North Woolsey Avenue. Resident Sergey Dronov was quoted in an Oregonian article as saying, “I don’t think there’s enough attention paid to this part of town.” In some […]
By Kim Whitney, Youth Programs Manager “I fixed and destroyed things, and those don’t go together often” – Alex “I learned how to fix a bike and a flat tire, and more.” – Dillon This year we facilitated our first ever Winter Bike Club. This pilot project, co-taught by Gladys Ruiz and Forrest Scott, along […]
By Randi Orth, Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator Derek joined us as a volunteer less than a year ago and he’s made a big impact on our programs in that short time. He started as a Tuesday Drop-in volunteer, quickly moved through the Holiday Bike Drive certification process to become a Guest Mechanic and can now […]
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist In November, we were contacted by members of the Portland Community College’s Cascade campus community who were interested in developing a bike rental program. It was Julie Davenport, the Communications Coordinator for ASPCC (Associated Students of Portland Community College) who had the idea. She got it, she says, from […]
By Lara Sheets, Program Support Specialist Imagine spending your summer riding up hills, exploring new bike lanes and boulevards with a new batch of friends. With Advanced Cruisers, youth from 11-13 years old have the opportunity to tour new terrain while taking on more of a challenge by riding that extra mile in our Advanced […]
My name is Britt Appleton and since November I have been the Social Media Specialist for the Community Cycling Center. Since I am doing most of our…
By Melinda Musser, Communications & Marketing Manager
It is truly a bittersweet moment for us today as we announce the departure of Brian Benson…
Here are some events happening in March:
Women’s History Month Ride
March 10th, 11am,
2129 SE Ladd
Read more
Why Aren’t There More Black Peo…
By Patrick Loftus, Retail Service Manager
Cleaning and lubing your chain regularly is a quick and easy thing to do. It keeps your bike running s…
By Britt Appleton, Social Media Specialist
As we’ve mentioned, we’re currently offering $100 off the complete overhaul of your bicycle at our bi…
By Lara Sheets, Program Support Specialist
For over five years the Community Cycling Center has offered All Girls Camps to young aspiring cyclis…
By Lara Sheets, Program Support Specialist
In January, we piloted a new Winter Bike Club at Harvey Scott School, featuring a bicycle maintenance…
By Randi Orth, Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator
Puanani and Pau are a mother-son power duo that started volunteering with us in June of 2011. …
By Breesa Culver, Development Manager
Last Sunday, people all over the Portland metro region woke up early, pulled on wigs and tutus, and access…
By Brian Benson, Community Engagement Director
As we’ve said many times before, the magic behind the Holiday Bike Drive isn’t really magic – it’…
By Kim Whitney, Youth Program Manager
How did you spend your summers as a 6 year old? Through our Bike Camp program, kids as young as 6 get the …
By Zan Gibbs, Adult Program Manager
On Sunday, February 5th, we delivered our first Create a Commuter workshop of 2012 to Portland Community Col…
By Melinda Musser, Communications and Marketing Manager
On Tuesday, February 6th, Eileen Brady, Charlie Hales, and Jefferson Smith sat center-st…
Press Release Community Cycling Center’s Bike Camp returns for another summer of adventures Registration begins in February and is sure to fill up fast February 6, 2012 – Portland, Ore. – This summer, Community Cycling Center’s Bike Camp program returns with more adventures, fun rides, and new games. The Bike Camp curriculum will offer more […]
By Brian Benson, Community Engagement Director
On Tuesday, January 31st, over 60 volunteers and staff came together in the bike shop to celebrat…
Over the past few months, your bike has seen rain, snow, and the dreaded wintry mix. It could probably use some love. We want to make it easy for y…
The 11th Annual Worst Day of the Year Ride on February 12th is a good demonstration of the spirited, fun-loving and resourceful attitude that makes…
We are proud to announce that in early February we will be co-sponsoring Local Motion: Portland Mayoral Candidates Discuss Active Transportation. I…
By Alison Graves, Executive Director of the Community Cycling Center
"This can’t be a bike event!" exclaimed my colleague, Keith Holt, of Milwau…