Frequently Asked Questions

Please check the Bike Kitchen web site first to see if your question is answered there.

How do I volunteer?

Come in during our open hours and let the greeter or a mechanic know you're interested in volunteering. We'll figure out your skill level and give you something to do. Volunteering at the bike kitchen is a great way to meet people, help out your community and learn more about bikes, and no previous knowledge is needed.

If you'd like to help with running the organization or become one of our staff mechanics, come in and talk to us, look around this wiki, and / or join our staff email list.

The bike mechanic role at the Bike Kitchen is central to our function, but there's plenty of other roles too. Many of these roles don't require any special bike knowledge. Have a look at the Unfulfilled Staff Roles page to see if there's anything that you want to take on.

Does the Bike Kitchen have [tool]?

Probably. We have a fairly extensive collection of tools, including crank pullers for odd French sized threads, a headset press, bottom bracket tap, headset race puller, and frame alignment checker. We've probably got it. Seriously, dont worry, just come in.

Does the Bike Kitchen have [part]?

The Bike Kitchen stocks all recycled parts and we receive donations regularly so our stock is always changing. The best way to find out what we have is to come by during open hours and ask one of our friendly mechanics. Please note that we do not sell parts out-the-door. All parts must be installed in-shop.

I just bought a bike - can I fix it/assemble it at the Bike Kitchen? Will someone help me?

Yes! That's exactly what we're here for. Come in during open hours and one of our many, friendly volunteer mechanics will help walk you through the steps to safely assemble or repair your bicycle. To use the shop, you will need to either pay pay the day use fee or become a member.

Can I buy a bike from the Bike Kitchen?

No, but we will help you build your very own bike from scratch out of all recycled parts and you don't even need any experience to do so! Our mission at the Bike Kitchen, generally, has two parts: education and recycling. We exist not to sell bikes, or provide people with a source of cheap bikes, but to help people learn how to build and maintain their own bikes.

Does the Bike Kitchen rent bikes?

No, but you can try posting to craigslist to borrow one, or rent one (we recommend the Bike Hut, a nonprofit that works with at-risk youth, but there are many bike rental locations in SF).

How do I donate bikes/parts to the Bike Kitchen?

Part of the Bike Kitchen's mission is to reuse parts, and we get them from donations. The best way to donate is to bring your bike/bikes/parts by during open hours and show them to any on-duty mechanic. They will assess if it's something we can absorb at this time. We can not accept all donations, and do not accept department store bikes.

Are you a non-profit?

Yes, we are a completely volunteer-run 501(c)(3) non-profit.

How do I find out about other places like the Bike Kitchen, or how to start my own?

Check out http://www.bikecollectives.org/ and join their email list.

What if my question isn't answered here or on the Bike Kitchen web site?

Come in during our open hours or email info@bikekitchen.org.