The Columbus Bike Co-op will reopen for the 2025 season on Sunday, March 9, 2025 at 2 p.m. Season hours will run on Sunday’s from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Tuesday’s from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and closing on major holidays.
“We are elated to be serving our community for our 18th consecutive season,” said Administrator Tabitha Saltzman. “The need for reliable and affordable transportation is needed now more than ever and we are so glad that we are still here to bridge the needed gap and offer a hand up to those who need it most,” Saltzman said.
For 18 years the Columbus Bike Co-op has served Bartholomew County by offering refurbished bicycles for a very reasonable price. Those unable to pay can earn a free bike by volunteering 5½ hours at the co-op. In addition to a free bike, recipients will receive training on how to repair and maintain their bike.
“It’s important to maintain your bike just like you would your car,” said Shop Manager Matteo Auteri. “Just like you would need to air up or change your tires on your car, you need to do the same for your bike. So, it is important that cyclists know how to change a tube, air up their tires and oil their chain. We want cyclists to be responsible riders on the road just like motorists in their cars,” Auteri said.
The Columbus Bike Co-op continues to offer volunteer opportunities for corporations, educational groups, service groups and youth groups on an ongoing basis. “We have had the pleasure to host some great organizations the past few years such as Cummins, Toyota, various church groups, Boy Scout groups and kids doing school projects. Everyone who comes here is really surprised at all the opportunities that we offer as well as what our needs are to continue serving this community,” Saltzman said.
Group service projects are done by appointment and may be scheduled by emailing info@bikeco-op.org.
For more information on donating, volunteering or scheduling a group service project, email info@bikeco-op.org or call 812-379-8860.
