Summer is just around the corner, and what better way to enjoy the outdoors with friends and family than with a bike? Firebird Community Cycle, a non-profit organization in Barrie, is hosting a bike sale on May 5th at 134 Anne St. South. At Firebird, residents can also drop by on Sunday afternoons from 4 to 8 pm to work on their bikes. It provides tools and basic training to help everyone get their bikes in perfect shape for summer riding.

Deepak Bidwai, LJI journalist, talked to its lead mechanic, Grant Wilson, about the organization, the upcoming bicycle sale, and Barrie's bicycle infrastructure. 

Grant Wilson, the lead mechanic at Firebird Community Cycle, plays a pivotal role in his community by refurbishing donated bicycles and either selling them at affordable prices or giving them away to those in need. Wilson explains that the initiative is driven by the dual benefits of providing affordable transportation and promoting physical well-being. "Biking is an amazing way to get around. Active transportation is crucial for the well-being of our cities and also helps individuals save money."

At Firebird, community members can also learn to repair their bikes, fostering a sense of independence and skill-building abilities. The shop offers Sunday workshops from 4 to 8 PM, where people can come in for guidance on simple repairs and borrow necessary tools. This accessibility helps demystify bike maintenance for everyone, regardless of their prior knowledge.

Grant advocates for better bike infrastructure, noting that consistent and connected bike lanes could significantly enhance cycling safety and adoption. He believes that building dedicated infrastructure will encourage more people to cycle, thereby justifying the investment compared to more costly car infrastructure.