Calendar
Join a volunteer orientation, drop-in events, or register for a class. Find out where and when we are boothing across campus. We also share partner events and special events, as well as upcoming shop closures.
Access Nights
During Access Nights there will be 4 repair stands open with one participant assigned to each stand, and we can accommodate 4 other folks in the space to be pumping up tires/oiling chains or browsing new/used parts. This allows us to still be able to get around the shop and offer assistance to folks. Participants will be asked to limit repair stand time to approximately 60 minutes so as to share the space with other visitors. Repair stands will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Individuals waiting for a turn will be asked to wait in the hallway to minimize shop crowding.
Please help protect your community by staying home if you have any symptoms indicative of COVID-19, or you have had COVID in the last 2 weeks. We provide masks free of charge to anyone who wants one.
Tool rental rate will be $0/hr rather than the usual $12/hr
Accessibility Information
Access Nights will be sensory-friendly. Shop lights will be dimmed and music will be kept at a low volume or turned off completely. Participants are also welcome to make requests for other specific accommodations in the space and staff will do their best to meet them.
The closest accessible entrance to the Bike Kitchen for users of mobility aids is on the north side of the UBC Student Life building, across from the North Parkade. Signs will be posted on Access Nights to direct visitors to the shop space. Full details on accessibility can be found here.
WTQ Night
when
Wednesdays
6:15 pm - 9:00 pm
*check calendar for last minute cancellations
where
The Bike Kitchen
Room #36 @ UBC Life Building
6138 Student Union Blvd.
Vancouver, BC
Women Trans Queer Night (WTQ) is a monthly Access Night for cis-women and trans and/or non-binary people of all genders to use the Bike Kitchen’s shop space and tools, supported by informal mentoring.
The purpose of the night is to offer a more welcoming, safer atmosphere in which people who are typically marginalized within the cycling community because of their gender identity and/or expression can work on their bikes, learn mechanics, and form connections. A staff mechanic and volunteer aligned with the night’s target demographic will be available to empower participants in performing their own repairs.
First come first served. Check calendar/social media for any cancellations. During the busy evenings we may: prioritize repairs for safety over repairs for performance, limit your stand time to 1 hour.
We politely decline servicing the following items during Access Nights: electric bikes, electronic shifting, computer systems, power meters, scooters or electric scooters
Skills Night!
Skills Night takes place every Tuesday evening. During this time, beginners can join our staff and board to learn about bike mechanics in a safe and welcoming environment, absolutely no experience is needed. The bikes we work on during Skills Night either get recycled, or re-used through one of our other programs, such as the Kids Bike Library, Bici Libre, or Bikes for BIPOC.
Registration is NOT required, simply show up between 6.15-9pm. Check calendar for any cancellations.
when
Tuesdays, 6.15-9.00pm
where
UBC Life Building
6138 Student Union Blvd.
Vancouver, BC
Kids Bike Library
Kids Bike Library
The Kids Bike Library (KBL) is similar to a regular library, but with bikes! During the summer kids and youth can come trade a bike they have outgrown for one their size (includes bikes with 20” wheels or smaller). Unlike a regular library, you can keep the bike for as long as you need it without having to worry about renewing. With the support from UBC Inspired, KBL usually opens up intake mid May and distributes bikes throughout the summer, subscribe to our newsletter to hear the latest updates.
Don’t have a bike? No problem! We provide bikes to children and youth by-donation, even if you don’t have one to swap. We also offer by-donation tune-ups for kids bikes at our weekly booths, check the calendar for dates starting in May.
Intake for KBL Summer 2025 are CLOSED. We are a small shop and cannot meet the current demand for this service.
Please click the link below for a PDF explainer that provides some tips on finding a used kids’ bike!
Get Involved
We’re always looking for bike donations and volunteers to help us build bikes and provide tune-ups. If you’re interested in supporting the Kids Bike Library or have questions about the program, please contact programs@thebikekitchen.ca
when
May to August, subscribe to newsletter for updates
where
UBC Life Building
6138 Student Union Blvd.
Vancouver, BC
Contact
programs@thebikekitchen.ca
604-822-2453
Workshops
Subscribe to our newsletter to get updates about when registration opens for our various workshops.
Intro to Bike Mechanics
check the programs calendar for dates and registration!
During four interactive sessions, you’ll learn about bike tools, parts and the inner workings of our two-wheeled friends. Workshops run for four weeks on a set days.
Knowledgeable mechanics will guide you through the basics of repairing and maintaining each system on the bicycle. Demonstrations are provided in a friendly and supportive environment with small class sizes.
Everyone is welcome! No bike or previous experience is required! If you do own a bike, the skills you learn in this class on our demo bikes will be transferable to your own bike. We feel confident that you will feel confident to repair your bike in our shop after you take this class!
Please note we do NOT cover hydraulic braking systems, shocks, tubeless tire set-ups, etc. If you have questions about the curriculum please email us at admin@thebikekitchen.ca
when
changes monthly, check calendar for details
price
4 Workshops
UBC Students $100
Non-UBC Students $150
Bike Basics
WORKSHOPS OPEN: check the programs calendar for dates and registration!
Bike Basics is our most beginner level workshop. This is a great workshop to begin to learn how to maintain your bicycle and get to know the Bike Kitchen and the services we provide. Using demo bicycles, we will be covering a range of topics to assist you in preventative maintenance of your bicycle - knowing the basics will help you save costs in the long-run and have a more enjoyable and smooth ride.
How much air should I put in my tires? Why is my chain squeaky and what can I do about it? What is this knocking sound coming from my pedals?
If these are some questions you’re asking yourself, then Bike Basics is a great first step into the wonderful world of bicycle maintenance!
WHEN
changes monthly
Price
2hr workshop
UBC Students free/PWYC
non-UBC Students - by donation suggested $5 minimum
Book us
You can book the Bike Kitchen to present a customized workshop for your organization, club, staff, or any group that wants to learn more about bikes and cycling! Please note that anything with 6 participants or more will have limited-to-no hands-on components.
To request a workshop, please contact admin@thebikekitchen.ca to start the conversation.
Bikes for BIPOC Students
This is a bike redistribution program for UBC students who are Black and/or Indigenous and/or People Of Colour to promote access to bikes as a mode of autonomy, safe and reliable transportation, health and joy. The aim of this program is to support BIPOC students and address inequalities of material wealth and access to transportation. We approach bike distribution with a Racial Justice lens and seek to provide accessible transportation to folks who are typically not prioritized in the bike industry.
check out the additional resources below!
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Color the trails -If you’re interested in hiking, skiing, kayaking, or just getting outdoors with a supportive crew color the trails is a good place to be! They create spaces for BIPOC folks in outdoor activities. Check out their website to learn more about their upcoming events and how to get involved:
https://www.instagram.com/colourthetrails/
Black lives matter Vancouver -Works on anti-racism advocacy, education, and building safe spaces for Black communities. Great if you want to learn, show up, or get involved in local movements.
https://www.instagram.com/blm_van/
Active run club - A group of Black and BIPOC youth who get together every weekend to run, hike, and enjoy the outdoors. Perfect if you want to stay active and meet new people.https://www.instagram.com/activerunclub/
Black van club - A hub for Black culture, events, and stories in Vancouver. Follow along for local happenings and stay updated
Black women connect - Creates spaces for connection, celebration, and empowerment among black women. They run networking and wellness events year-round.
https://www.blackwomenconnectvancouver.com/
Black business association of BC- provides mentorship, networking, and showcases Black entrepreneurs across the province.
https://www.blackbusinessbc.ca/
Vancouver black therapy fund - A black led, black serving nonprofit that connects individuals and families to free and low-cost mental health services. They prioritize support for low-income, newcomer, LGBTQIA+, refugee, and disabled community members.
https://vancouverblacktherapyfoundation.com/
Couch jams - A vibrant collective amplifying underrepresented BIPOC artists through open mic nights and showcases at venues like the Vancouver Black Library. They foster a supportive space for emerging talent in the local music scene.
https://www.instagram.com/couchjamscollective/
Black girl collective vancouver - Founded in 2020, this collective creates safe, inclusive spaces for Black cisgender women and LGBTQIA+ individuals. They offer mentorship, community events, and resources to empower and connect Black women in Metro Vancouver.
https://www.instagram.com/blackgirlcollective_/
Afro vancouver connect - A nonprofit dedicated to empowering black and African youth through art, conversation, collaboration, and performance. They cultivate gathering spaces for vibrant, creative minds committed to increasing the visibility of underrepresented diasporic communities.
https://www.afrovanconnect.com/
BC black history awareness society - This society creates awareness of the history of Blacks in BC and celebrates their contributions in various fields, including arts, education, government, sports, and sciences.
Black Strathcona resurgence project - A community-driven initiative aimed at reclaiming and celebrating the Black presence in Vancouver's historic Strathcona neighborhood through art, storytelling, and cultural events.
Umoja corporation - A charitable organization formed to work with newcomer immigrants and refugees living in BC. They provide culturally attuned, trauma-informed programs to empower individuals and families to successfully integrate into Canadian society.
BC black businesses - A platform highlighting Black-owned businesses across the province, offering a directory to support and promote Black entrepreneurship in BC.
https://www.blackbusinessbc.ca/
Afro world expo - Western Canada’s largest showcase of African and Caribbean culture. It features music, dance, food, fashion, and a marketplace of black-owned businesses. The event is held annually and provides an opportunity to explore black culture, meet local creators, and support black owned businesses.
National congress of black women foundation - a nonprofit based in Burnaby, BC, that supports Black women and families. They run programs focused on education, health, culture, and community-building. The foundation offers workshops, events, and community resources, and provides opportunities to volunteer or get involved with local initiatives. https://ncbwf.org/
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This biking route highlights key locations tied to black history and community in Vancouver, offering students a chance to connect with the city’s cultural and historical landscape. The full route is about 6.3 km, roughly a 30-minute ride (not including stops), with an optional Seawall detour for scenic reflection.
Vancouver Public Library (350 W Georgia St)
Start here to ground yourself in knowledge -VPL houses archives on Vancouver’s Black history, including Hogan’s Alley and pioneers like Joe Fortes, providing a lens into the city’s past and the people who shaped it.253 Keefer Street (Chinatown)
While not a black specific landmark, this stop shows Vancouver’s layered multicultural heritage, where Black history has always intersected with Chinese, Indigenous, Italian, and other communities in the east end.Militant Mothers of Raymur Pedestrian Overpass (Keefer & Raymur)
In 1971, local mothers blocked railway tracks so their children could safely reach school. This grassroots action, led by women of colour, won a pedestrian overpass and stands as a powerful example of community organizing and advocacy.Emery Barnes Park (Seymour & Davie)
One of BC’s first black memeber of legistlative assembly and a champion for equity and justice. This park honors his legacy as a community advocate, athlete, and social worker, and serves as a vibrant public space today.Rosemary Brown Lane & mural (West End, near Robson & Haro)
This lane honors Rosemary Brown , the first black woman elected to a provincial legislature in Canada. A feminist, activist, and educator, Brown dedicated her life to fighting racial and gender discrimination, making this a site of reflection and inspiration.Optional Scenic Addition – The Seawall
Take a detour for ocean and mountain views. Near English Bay, you’ll find a memorial to Joe Fortes, Vancouver’s beloved black lifeguard and swim teacher. The Seawall offers a quiet, reflective space to connect with Vancouver’s history and natural beauty.What to put on map: Take a 6.3 km bike route highlighting Vancouver’s Black history and community. Visit landmarks like:
Point A-Vancouver Public Library – archives and stories of pioneers like Joe Fortes
Point B- Militant Mothers of Raymur Overpass – grassroots activism led by women of colour
Point C- Emery Barnes Park – in honor of BC’s first black member of legislative assembly and community advocate
Point D- Rosemary Brown Lane & mural – celebrating Canada’s first Black woman elected to provincial office
Finish the ride with the Seawall for scenic reflection and a memorial to Joe Fortes. Stops show how black history intersects with Vancouver’s multicultural past and present.
Maybe all you needed to start biking to campus was a buddy!
Join the Bike Kitchen's Bike Buddy program, a bike commute mentorship program to help overcome barriers cycling to/from UBC Point Grey Campus. We will pair a novice cyclist with an experienced cyclist to support overcoming barriers to cycling together! We’ll aim to match people and support them to complete 3-5 commutes together in the month of October.
Sign up by September 16th to get matched! You’ll do an orientation with us (this is mandatory) and then meet your buddy and aim to do 3-5 commutes together in October.
Hope to see you soon as Bike Buddies!
Bici Libre
Bici Libre is a program within The Bike Kitchen with the mandate to support migrant agricultural workers in BC. We take donated bikes, repair them to high standards and redistribute them to migrant farmworkers across so-called BC. We currently work in partnership with Migrant Worker Centre, Watari, and BCFED on the Migrant 2 Migrant program to support farmworkers in the Okanagan and so-called ‘Vancouver Island’. We also host bicycle mechanic workshops as a part of the same program for migrant farmworkers in the Lower Mainland with the intention of building skills and autonomy, and decreasing dependency on Bici Libre and programs like ours for repairs.
If you wish to support the work we do, use the donation button! We are always grateful for whatever people can give. Unfortunately we are unable to offer tax receipts for donations.
You can find our solidarity statement here.
¡ Libre together !
Bici Libre is currently running our summer-long fundraiser ¡Libre Together!. The title of this series of events translates to “Free Juntes” (in Spanish: “Libre Juntes”, in English: “Free Together”) in honour and recognition of the fact that liberation involves and needs all of us working together. ¡Libre Together! is a series of events with two main objectives: one, raise funds for the Bici Libre program; and two, build networks of meaningful solidarity centred on migrant justice.
You can participate by attending our events (see the Calendar below), using the donation button above or helping us out by donating anything on our wishlist below!
If you want to learn more about Bici Libre and ¡Libre Together!, check out the explainer document linked below. We are also inviting people to get involved in our events beyond attending or contributing financially (as much as they would like to), so if that calls to you or you’re curious about what that looks like, click on the Get Involved button!
Join us as we try, in the ways that we can, to get to a future where we are all ¡Libre Together!
Calendar of events for ¡Libre Together!
Cycling Resource Centres/Outreach Booths
with the support of UBC Inspired!
Our Cycling Resource Centres (CRCs) are a one stop shop for all things relating to bicycles. We go outdoors to places where cyclists and would-be cyclists already congregate and provide answers any bike related questions they may have.
We provide:
Basic adjustments (air, oil, minor repairs) for free/by donation
Tutorials on bike mechanics
Cycling route maps
Interactive educational resources
Resources from local cycling + advocacy organizations
Information about upcoming events
Through the support of UBC Inspired, we offer free outreach booths on campus from spring until fall every year. Drop by and get your bike checked over and other cycling resources likes maps and guides.
WHEN? WHERE?
They are scheduled regularly!
Check out our events calendar
BOOK US!
Want to bring us to your building/area? Contact us for a quote and scheduling!