MoBo is a volunteer-run bicycle cooperative, located at 1415 Knowlton Street. They provide a safe community for people of all ages and orientations to come together, build friendships, and learn from one other. Central to this initiative is their maintenance of a fully-equipped bicycle shop, where members can learn to work on their own bikes, with the assistance of experienced volunteers.

The co-op provides a space for people to come to rescue bicycles and learn how to fix and maintain them. Volunteer mechanics offer assessment and advice for drop-ins, and will not turn people away due to lack of funds. They strive to take some of the mystery out of bicycles. The volunteer mechanics help guide members who are working on their own bicycle projects. The Co-op also hosts family-friendly workshops, organizes rides, social events, and contests throughout the year.

Current workshops include:

The WTFNB Program – A gender-expansive space for queer and trans folks and self-identified women to wrench and learn together;

Kids Day – A FREE, educational program for youth 18 and under to obtain and repair transportation, running year-round on Mondays from 5 pm to 8 pm; and

Winter Workshops – Clinics for people who like bikes to share specific skills.

Don’t have a bike?

Members who do not own a bicycle can adopt one of the many donated bicycles, parts, and accessories at very modest prices. The co-op has an “adopt a bike” program where volunteer hours can be put towards earning a bike. The co-op also has a Spring Sale, where bikes that have been donated are refurbished and sold for a modest price.

Co-op Membership

The annual membership fee is $20 (although membership can also be earned by 2 hours of volunteering). Youth 18 and under are welcome to join for free.

Membership provides access to the bicycle shop. Currently, Open Shop (for adults) happens once a week, on Sundays from 11 am to 5 pm. Kids Day (Open Shop for Kids) occurs every Monday from 5 pm to 8 pm. During this time, members have access to the tools, cleaners, grease, and much more, including the collective knowledge of the volunteer community, in helping the member work on their bike.

You can become a member by filling out a membership form (or by completing one online at their website), turning it in at the front desk, and paying the $20 annual membership fee. Cash, check, or credit card accepted.

Volunteering

Volunteer hours in the bike shop take place during Open Shop on Sundays from 11 am to 5 pm and Kids Day on Mondays from 5 pm to 8 pm. During these volunteer times, personal projects are put on hold in favor of volunteer work. Bike shop volunteers clean and maintain the shop, organize donated bikes and parts, and refurbish bikes for the annual bike sale.

For more information you can visit the shop, or send your questions via email. MoBo does not list a direct phone number, so email or in-person visits are recommended.

This article written by Stefan Densmore, for United Resource Connection. You can find more resources related to youth development and recreation by selecting the “youth development” and/or “recreation” option from the dropdown tab on our Social Service “Utilization Library” page.