Cycles of Change in Oakland
Keeping Oakland rolling
Many associate the words “cycling” and “cyclist” with sweaty, spandex-clad athletes — which unfairly erases the experiences of many for whom the bicycle can be inexpensive, reliable, home-serviceable, joyful transportation that opens doors and opportunities. One simply needs that door nudged open and the result can be world-altering. Enter Cycles of Change.
In the heart of Oakland, Cycles of Change is a BIPOC worker collective weaving together threads of community, empowerment, and sustainable transportation. With a mission to provide affordable bicycles, educational programs, and community-building initiatives, CoC is more than just a bike shop; it’s a powerful catalyst for positive change.
The Bikery, Cycles of Change’s community bike shop. Photo: cyclesofchange.org
Born in 1998 in the basement of East Oakland’s Roosevelt Middle School, Cycles of Change started with bike mechanic skill sessions and after-school adventures. Today, they offer in-school bike safety training and watershed education to thousands of students in Alameda County and beyond.
Naturally, working knowledge of bicycles and how to ride them isn’t worth much without one. That’s where The Bikery and Oakland Upcycle — two of CoC’s programs — come into play.
The Bikery is a non-profit community bike shop that offers low-cost full-service repairs, affordable used bikes for sale, and earn-a-bike programs for youth. Opened in 2009, The Bikery is committed to making bicycles accessible to everybody.
CoC broadens access to biking through education programs and low cost or free resources. Photos: cyclesofchange.org
Oakland Upcycle, formerly known as Bike-Go-Round, connects low-income East Bay residents with free bicycles. Program participants are provided with the tools they need to start cycling as their main mode of transport: including a lock, helmet, personalized transportation plan, and urban riding training. With their new skills and equipment, participants are able to travel to jobs, services, and other locations that public transport may not reach.
Want to learn more about Cycles of Change or find a way to help? Check out cyclesofchange.org/get-involved.
Have you or someone you know been involved in a bicycle crash? Want to know about your rights? Are you a lawyer handling a bicycle crash who wants the best result for your client? Contact Bicycle Law at (866) 835-6529 or info@bicyclelaw.com.
Bicycle Law’s lawyers practice law through Coopers LLP, which has lawyers licensed in California, Oregon, and Washington state, and can affiliate with local counsel on bicycle cases across the country to make sure cyclists benefit from cycling-focused lawyers.