Residents get their bikes tuned up for safe cycling

Our CHATT committee has been busy helping Headwaters residents get their bikes tuned up for safe cycling. On June 30 Jeff Lemon hosted a very successful Womens Bike Maintenance workshop at Cycling Elements in Orangeville.

12 enthusiastic cyclists who arrived eager to learn the basics of keeping their bikes fit and running smooth were not disappointed. The workshop included methods for problem solving, getting used to your bikes unique sounds and of course – how to change a tire. Participants enjoyed a very engaging session and everyone headed out feeling much more confident about their bike knowledge. The feedback we received was very positive and demonstrated that the women appreciated an all women workshop that allowed them to work on their own bike in a bike shop, and appreciated getting hands on instruction in a casual and relaxed environment. Cycling Elements owner Jeff Lemon and his helper Charlie were wonderful instructors providing simple and straightforward instruction on how to perform a quick bike safety check, how to remove and change a flat tire, how to properly inflate bike tires, and how to lubricate and maintain your bike. The women worked in pairs to practice and the environment was perfect for learning. We hope to offer more bike workshops in settings that are supportive and non intimidating. Some of the ideas that were requested were how to safely ride with children, bike skills for children and more in-depth bike mechanic workshops for repairing chains and gears.

Anyone interested in attending a session later in the summer can send us a note to get on the waitlist at: canbike@headwaterscommunities.org

Call to Action – we need your help! Calling all Headwaters Walkers, Joggers, Cylclists and anyone who likes to spend time away from the couch. Interested in joining CHATT and helping Headwaters get active in support of community well-being? Join the committee or volunteer for one of our summer cycling workshops. Drop us a line and let’s connect.