Two happy boys with their father and new bikes. /SONJA LUNDSTROM
What a glorious day it was, as the West End community came together at the 7th Annual Spring Bike Bazaar at the Orioles Bike Cage.
The W.R.E.N.C.H. (Winnipeg Repair Education and Cycling Hub) had brought a truck filled with 80 adult, and 100 children’s bicycles that had been reconditioned. This transformed the Community Centre into a kids bike swap, sale, community tune-up-stand and barbecue.
Children were fitted for the best bike from large selection of repaired bicycles. /SONJA LUNDSTROM
Children (age 2-8) could trade in the bikes they had outgrown, free of charge as well as receive a free bike helmet.
The adult bikes were sold at low cost. Additionally, bike enthusiasts could learn how to fix and maintain their bikes.
It was a great way to start a new summer of biking.
Parents and bike volunteers looked on, while the kids were testing the bikes to find the best fit. /SONJA LUNDSTROM
“It warms one’s heart to see that everyone participates and everyone is so happy on this lovely spring day,” was one sentiment shared at the Bike Cage.
“We can all be very proud of this. I want to bring my grandchildren and other friends here.”
Yes, looks like a good fit. /SONJA LUNDSTROM
The volunteer-run community bike resource centre – the Bike Cage – is located on 444 Burnell Street, in the building behind the wading pool in Orioles Park next to the Valour Community Centre.
The mission of the Bike Cage is to make bicycling and repair knowledge accessible to all. You can get repair advice, use the shared tools, and a volunteer can assist you with your bike repairs.
Many residents came out for the annual Bike Bazaar. /SONJA LUNDSTROM
There is no cost to use the repair hub, however, a pay-what-you-can donation is appreciated. Donations of bike parts are also appreciated.
Visit when the Bike Cage is open to drop them off. Open every week, all year: Tue. 6 – 9 p.m. and Sat. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
You can also check out the Bike Cage on Facebook.
A barbecue encouraged all in this diverse community to get to know each other. /SONJA LUNDSTROM
