Rain or Shine: MTP Program
Rain or Shine; WE RIDE! Fall is officially here, and Winter isn't far behind, so be sure to stop by the shop to prep your gear before the elements sneak up on you. We've had a solid month of riding with our MTP groups and are incredibly proud of the students for braving the cold, wet conditions and building their confidence with some challenging hazards/conditions. Mother Nature recently brought quite a bit of disruption to many of our sidewalks and bike lanes, which gave us a little assistance in setting up some natural obstacle courses to capitalize on. Despite dark, cold, wet conditions, the students absolutely crushed it!
We're certainly making strides in our community with our efforts in bicycle infrastructure and awareness, but we often remind participants in the program if you can safely navigate roadways in the Reno area, you'll likely be comfortable riding anywhere. We're a sprawling city with limited shared road space and many urban roads exceeding speed limits of 40mph. "Head on a swivel" can often be heard throughout our rides. Since completing LCI, our Major Taylor Program has implemented many new standards and norms to strengthen confidence and encourage more critical thinking. In an effort to improve upon decision-making, we've been including more pre-ride briefs to discuss challenges presented during previous rides or obstacles to be aware of. We've also been stopping periodically to discuss decisions we've executed beautifully-or poorly.
Witnessing a young rider gain confidence in their riding abilities and decision-making brings an inexplicable joy to our team at RBP and aligns with our mission of serving our wonderful community. Without the generosity and support of members, donors, and individuals like yourself, these types of programs and opportunities would not exist. THANK YOU! The reach and impact of RBP would not be the same without you.
Keep on riding, and stay safe out there!
Tis' the Season (Free Wheels 4 Kids)
It is that time of year again, the holidays. And here at the Reno Bike Project we are in full Free Wheels 4 Kids mode (like Beastmode). So far this year we have given away 152 kids bikes for free to our community members, and we are trying to give away 150 more before the year ends. That is where you come in. You can come and join us Saturday December 13th at 635 E. 4th from 10 am until 2pm. If you can't make it there, we can still you use your help. If you have old kids bikes, flatted out, clapped, outgrown, forgotten. We would love to have them, fix them, then give them away to the community. We accept all donations at our shop during normal business hours. Thank you for considering this program, it is one of our favorites.
Introducing Weekly Workshops: Newest Lineup!
Kick off the new year by sharpening your bike skills! Starting this January, we’re excited to begin offering weekly Thursday workshops, each taught by one of our experienced RBP mechanics. These hands-on classes focus on practical, ride-ready skills — from emergency fixes to seasonal maintenance — and are great for riders of all experience levels.
Whether you want to learn the basics, tune up your commuting routine, or deepen your mechanical know-how, there’s a class for you.
Upcoming Workshops
Thu, Jan 8, 6:30–8:30 PM — Introduction, Tools, and Bicycle Anatomy
Focus on getting familiar with the parts of a bicycle and how they work together. Learn essential tools, workspace setup, and perform a simple pre-ride safety check.
Members: $15 / Non-members: $45
Thu, Jan 15, 6:30–8:30 PM — Flat Fix & Tire Care
Practice removing wheels, taking off tires, and fixing flats (clincher or tubeless). Learn to identify punctures, set proper tire pressure, and get a free pair or tire levers and a patch kit/tire plug kit.
Members: $15 / Non-members: $45
Thu, Jan 22, 6:30–8:30 PM — Rim Brakes
Understand how rim brakes work and how to adjust, center, and replace brake pads. Troubleshoot common issues like squealing or weak braking.
Members: $15 / Non-members: $45
Thu, Jan 29, 6:30–8:30 PM — Winterizing Your Ride
Learn how to prepare your bike for cold and wet winter conditions by cleaning, protecting, and lubricating key components. Understand tire choices, fender setup, rust prevention, and simple maintenance habits that keep your bike reliable all winter long.
Members: $15 / Non-members: $45
Thu, Feb 5, 6:30–8:30 PM — Disc Brakes
Learn the basics of mechanical and hydraulic disc brakes, including pad alignment and rotor rub fixes. Replace pads and understand when hydraulic service is needed.
Members: $15 / Non-members: $45
Join us to learn new skills, meet fellow bike enthusiasts, and keep your rides rolling smoothly all year long. Spots fill quickly — we’d love to see you there!
FutureCycle Applications Are Now Open!
Applications for the Reno Bike Project’s FutureCycle Program officially opened on November 24th. Gear up with us for an exciting new cohort starting January 12th, 2026!
FutureCycle is a two-part, paid workforce development program designed to help young people build mechanical and job skills. Participants earn $12/hour for 10-20 hours per week as they learn, practice, and grow. The program works in two parts:
Part 1: 10-Week Internship (Starting January 12th)
Four participants begin with in-depth, hands-on bicycle repair training and job skills coaching. During this stage, each intern rebuilds a used bicycle and keeps it as a reliable commuting bike! This phase builds a strong foundation in mechanical skills, workplace expectations, communication, and shop culture.
Part 2: 5-Week Paid Externship (Starting March 21st)
After completing the internship, participants move into a paid externship with a partnering bike or mechanic shop. This real-world experience helps them strengthen their résumé, develop professional references, and build relationships within the local industry. By graduation, our goal is to help each participant become a highly desirable job applicant with clear pathways into future employment.
Weekly Schedule
Monday: 3–7 PM at 635 E 4th St
Tuesday: 3–6 PM at 635 E 4th St
Saturday (choose one):
Morning: 10 AM–1 PM at 216 E Grove St
Afternoon: 2–5 PM at 216 E Grove St
Who Can Apply?
FutureCycle is open to youth ages 16–24, with priority given to disadvantaged or underserved youth. No prior mechanical experience required, just curiosity, commitment, and a willingness to learn.
If you or someone you know is ready to build skills, community, and confidence, encourage them to apply today!
RBP - Pro-Tip of the Month
Winter conditions tend to bring a lot of moisture to our roadways. After each wet ride, wipe your bike chain thoroughly with a clean rag to remove excess water and grit. Once dry, apply a suitable chain lube evenly across the links and wipe off the excess to prevent rust and ensure smooth performance. Leaving a thin film on the inside of the chain is enough for lubrication - removing the extra prevents dirt from sticking and keeps the drivetrain cleaner and longer-lasting.
