Classes and Open shop for women/trans/femme/non-binary folks

The Shift Program is all about shifting the narrative of who can work on and ride bikes! Our goal is to create an inclusive space to help foster more FTWN-B folks wrenching and riding. Check out our programming below! Questions? Email claire@bikewalktompkins.org.

Shift Open Shop: restarting April 2, 2026

Join us on the first Thursday of the month from 4-7pm! Bring your bike in for a repair, fix that weird noise that it always seems to make, volunteer on a project, and connect with other cyclists in the community! We offer tune-ups, free access to tools, used parts, refurbished bikes for sale, and a mechanic on-site to assist with any bike-related issues.

Monthly CLASSES (View all and REGISTER HERE)

Pre-registration is required for all classes. There is a $20 suggested donation for each class. We never turn anyone away due to lack of funds; If the financial barrier would prevent you from participating, you may use the code FREERIDE to waive the fee. We trust that folks will self-assess if this is what they need in order to participate.

April 16: Wheel Truing (REGISTER HERE)

Sst, sst, sst.. Do you hear that sound coming from your wheel when you bike? Are you curious about what exactly all those spokes do?? In this class we’ll go over the different parts of the wheel and spoke, spoke tension, and the basics of wheel truing so that your wheels are perfectly balanced. Participants are encouraged to bring their own bikes.

May 21: Fix A Flat (REGISTER HERE)

This in-depth class will walk you through all the steps of fixing a flat on your bike. We’ll talk about bike anatomy, practice taking off the wheels, patch a tube, and assemble it all back together. Participants are encouraged to bring their own bikes.

June 18: All About Chains (REGISTER HERE)

Has your chain ever fallen off while you were riding and you didn't know what to do? This class will prepare you for what to do next time and how to prevent this from happening again (via limit screw adjustments). We’ll also check for chain wear, learn about chain sizing, learn how to replace a chain, and talk about general chain maintenance. Participants are encouraged to bring their own bikes.

More classes later on in 2026… Stay tuned!

All programming will take place at Swamp City Community Cycles: 803 Cascadilla St. Ithaca, NY 14850 (behind the Enterprise Car Rental office).