Gainesville, Florida
Purpose: Teach the skills of bicycle maintenance and mechanics. To give graduates an opportunity to return to their neighborhoods with these skills and know how to function as local bike mechanics.
100+
Participants Served
300+
Bikes Rebuilt
20+
Volunteer Instructors
22
Sessions
11-year-olds and older learn how to rebuild, repair, and maintain bicycles in a 7-week, structured, one on one, hands on learning experience.
Who We Serve
The BU welcomes any and all skill levels. The minimum age is 11; there is no "too Old". The oldest student, so far, was 73 years old. Students have been from all over Florida. We have had families participate, had parents working alongside their kids, and people who just wanted a bike and to learn how to use one.
No experience is required – just enthusiasm to learn and a commitment to the program.
The cost of the 7-week session is $350 and includes everything mentioned plus snacks, drinks and lunches. Scholarships are available upon request.
If needed, arrangements can be made to pick up students from a predetermined location in their neighborhoods and driven to the site. The pick-up time will be ~8:30 AM.
The 7-week sessions meet on Saturdays from 9am -1pm.
We also offer a 4-week, 2 hr. class on 3D printing for $200.
What Students Gain
- Practical knowledge of bicycle rebuilding, repair and maintenance.
- Hands-on experience with bicycle tools and parts.
- Mentorship from experienced instructors
- Increased confidence and problem-solving abilities.
- Connection with a supportive community.
- Tangible outcomes: the student leaves with the bike they rebuilt, a complete tool kit, a pump, a lock, and helmet. The graduate student also receives a personalized framed diploma.
Send us an email at bike.university.gnv@gmail.com with the following information:
First Name
Last Name
Age
Parent or Guardian
Phone
Address
Dream bike?
Transportation or Access Needs
All skill levels welcome. We will contact you about the next available session.
Share Your Skills, Change Lives
Our volunteer instructors are the heart of Bicycle University. Your time and expertise can help youth gain confidence, learn practical skills, and become part of something bigger.
Instructor Expectations
- Time Commitment: 7 week session
- Background Check: Required for working with youth participants
- Mechanical Ability: Basic to intermediate bicycle knowledge helpful, but we provide training
- Mentorship Role: Guide and encourage students throughout their learning journey
Benefits of Volunteering
- Make a direct impact on youth in your community
- Share your knowledge and skills with eager learners
- Connect with like-minded volunteers
- Fulfill community service hours
- Be part of Gainesville's cycling community
- See tangible results as students grow
From Our Volunteers
"I have a lot of accrued knowledge and now that I don't work at a bike shop I feel it kind of goes to waste. When Gary approached me about working at Bicycle University it seemed like a pretty novel cool idea. After starting to do it I really got to like it."
Volunteer Instructor
Former Bike Shop Owner, 20+ Years Experience
Send us an email at bike.university.gnv@gmail.com with the following information:
First Name
Last Name
Email Address
Phone Number
Bicycle Experience
Why do you want to volunteer?
Availability
Background check required for all volunteers working with youth.
Support Our Mission
Monetary donations can be made to the https://pushpay.com/g/greenhousechurch and select the dropdown for "Gary Sinkus / Bicycle University" to donate there. Bicycle donations can also be made to Gary Sinkus at bike.university.gnv@gmail.com
Community Partners Welcome
The BU supports Released and Reentry and Community Spring with rebuilt bicycles
Together, The BU can expand its outreach and impact.
Stories From Our Community
Follow our journey and see the real impact of Bicycle University through the stories we share.
"I thought it was awesome. I've been learning so much because of Gary and Stephane. The excitement at building and being able to find parts—it's a great place. I think everyone should come and learn about how to build a bike."
— Bicycle University Student
Know an Organization That Should Partner With Us?
Help us connect with schools, community groups, and organizations that serve youth who could benefit from learning bicycle mechanics. Your referral can open doors for more students.
bike.university.gnv@gmail.com
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about Bicycle University? Find answers to common questions below.
Ready to Get Involved?
Whether you want to learn, teach, or support—there's a place for you at Bicycle University.