Fixing my bike with help at the Broken Spoke Co-op🚲
Dog friendly bike repair 🐾
Good morning, fellow dog lovers! Today, I want to share an exciting adventure that Oak and I had at the Broken Spoke Co-op. It was a memorable experience filled with bike repairs, friendly faces, and wagging tails. Let me take you on our journey!
As Oak and I pedaled our way to the Broken Spoke Co-op, we were greeted by a warm smile from a gentleman named Eagle and Louise. He proved to be a true bike enthusiast, assisting us in changing the tire and replacing the brake cable on my bike. With his expert guidance, the repair was a breeze, and we were back on track in no time. It was a joy to work with Eagle, as I felt no pressure to hurry, and felt I could ask as many questions as I wanted. Also, we had a bit of a giggle in places as Eagle and I kept dropping a cap for the brake cable, which flew off and was fiddley. But we fixed it in the end. All the other staff were lovely to.
But it wasn’t just the mechanical assistance that impressed us. The Broken Spoke Co-op had thoughtfully provided a dog water bowl, ensuring that visiting dogs stay hydrated during their visit. On this particularly hot day, Oak couldn’t resist taking a break and stretching out on the cool workshop floor. The staff, volunteers, and fellow bike enthusiasts showered her with affection, creating an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie. Oak was so well behaved and was so chilled out, I was proud of her.
What struck me most about the Broken Spoke Co-op was their commitment to fostering a vibrant cycling community. Their affordable bike stands, ranging from £5 to £25 depending on what you can afford, allow everyone to access the tools they need to fix their bicycles. It’s a place where people from all walks of life come together, sharing their passion for cycling and supporting one another.
Let me share a bit about the Broken Spoke Co-op in their own words:
“The Broken Spoke is a not-for-profit social enterprise started by people who are really passionate about cycling. We provide open workshop support, mechanics courses, cycle training, and a hub of information for people who cycle (or really want to). Our goal is to make people more proficient and confident in cycle maintenance and riding.”
Established in June 2012, the Broken Spoke Co-op has come a long way since its humble beginnings. It has evolved into a registered Community Benefit Society with charitable objectives, aligning with their vision of promoting cycling proficiency and self-sufficiency. They collaborate with local community organizations, school groups, and individuals, working together to create a cycling culture that thrives on knowledge sharing and empowerment.
By donating a tin of dog biscuits, Oak and I felt that we became part of the Broken Spoke Co-op family. We made genuine connections with the staff, volunteers, and fellow visitors, and we’re already planning our next visit. Oak can’t wait to make more friends, and I’m excited to bring another bike to work on next week.
If you’re looking for an inclusive space to enhance your cycling skills, connect with like-minded individuals, and give back to the community, the Broken Spoke Co-op is the place to be. Remember, you only pay for the use of the stands and the bike parts you need, making it an affordable option for bike enthusiasts of all levels. I am a very beginner in bike repair, so please don’t feel you need to be an expert. I did not even know the name of some of the bike parts, like noodle.
So get on your bikes, put on your dogs lead, and pedal your way to the Broken Spoke Co-op for a memorable experience that will leave you feeling inspired and empowered.
📍 Location: St Thomas School, Osney Ln, Oxford OX1 1NJ
🌐 Website: http://bsbcoop.org/
https://www.facebook.com/BrokenSpokeBikeCoop
https://www.instagram.com/brokenspokebikecoop/
Happy cycling, and don’t forget to give your dog an extra pat on the head form Oak and me!
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