Blackstone Bicycle Works aims to empower youth through bicycle education, leadership, and life skills development.
YOUTH EDUCATION
We empower youth from Chicago's South Side by teaching bike mechanics, job skills, and life skills to individuals ages 8-18 through our after-school and Earn-A-Bike programs.
AFTER SCHOOL
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
We engage and educate the local community while advocating for safer pedestrian infrastructure through our Open Shop, Group Rides, and Community Classes.
See details below!
OPEN SHOP
Wednesdays | 4–6 PM
Saturdays | 10 AM–12 PM
Bring your bike during one of our Open Shop hours. Our staff and volunteers are here to help teach you how to fix your own bike. We don’t offer drop-off services, and you can’t leave your bike with us — we believe in empowering riders with the knowledge to keep their own wheels spinning.
Community
Community Classes
Build your bike knowledge with our classes!
Fix A Flat
JUNE 28 | 12-2PM
60 minutes
This interactive workshop teaches essential skills, from pinpointing punctures to safely changing tubes. Perfect for cyclists of all levels, it will equip you to tackle roadside repairs independently. Don't let a flat derail your ride!
Tubeless Tires
JULY 12 | 12-2PM
60 minutes
This hands-on class will cover everything you need to know about going tubeless. We’ll break down the benefits (and limitations) of tubeless setups, go over the key components like sealant, tape, and valves, and walk you through the full conversion process from start to finish. All skill levels welcome, bring your questions!
Chain Waxing 101
AUGUST 9 | 12-2PM
60 minutes
This class is your introduction to chain waxing—a low-friction, high-performance alternative to traditional lubes. We’ll guide you through the full process: from removing factory grease and prepping your chain, to hot waxing techniques and best practices for re-waxing. Perfect for commuters, racers, or anyone tired of grimy chains and frequent cleanings.
Earn-A-Bike
SUMMER CAMP
BIKES
ARTS
SCIENCE
GARDENING
For youth ages 14-18 from Woodlawn and South Side neighborhoods!
MONDAY - FRIDAY | 9AM-3PM
Breakfast, lunch, and snacks Provided!
CONTACT: BRUCE WINSTON, PROGRAM MANAGER - YOUTH EXPERIENCE
Frequently Asked Questions
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Blackstone Bicycle Works is a nonprofit bike shop that serves youth and the wider community in the Woodlawn neighborhood and across the South Side of Chicago. We’re all about bikes, empowerment, and creating opportunities for young people through hands-on learning and community engagement.
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Yes! Bring your bike during one of our Open Shop hours:
Wednesdays from 4–6 PM
Saturdays from 10 AM–12 PM
Our staff and volunteers are here to help teach you how to fix your own bike. We don’t offer drop-off services, and you can’t leave your bike with us — we believe in empowering riders with the knowledge to keep their own wheels spinning.
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We sell essentials to keep you rolling, including:
Brake and shift cables
Housing
Chain lubricant
Helmets
You can purchase items during our Open Shop hours.
We currently do not sell bikes, but stay tuned — that may change soon!
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We run a variety of youth programs year-round, including:
In-school and after-school programs for elementary and middle school students
Spring break and summer camps
A Youth Cyclocross Team for young riders who want to race, get muddy, and have fun
Whether you're new to biking or already shredding trails, there’s a place for you at Blackstone.
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We’re always grateful for donations of bicycles and bike accessories. You can drop items off during Open Shop hours. If that doesn’t work for you, email us at shop@experimentalstation.org to schedule a different time. Your support helps keep our programs free and accessible to the youth and community. You can also support us monetarily here.
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We’d love to have you on board! You can sign up to volunteer [here]. No bike experience? No problem! We’re happy to train volunteers, and we always appreciate an extra set of hands.
If you have any questions, DM or email us at shop@experimentalstation.org