Newmarket Cycles is pleased to report the successful completion of its first-ever free bike repair program with kids from grades 5-7. Through this free after-school program, conducted in partnership with York Region District School Board, Parachute and the York Region, ten students from Phoebe Gilman Public School learnt how to tune up a bike, change a flat tire and maintain their own gears and brakes. The students also received tools and a refurbished bike to work on and take home at the end of this four-part session.
The program was broken up into four 1.5-hour lessons.
Lesson 1: Introduction to Bike Mechanics. Students received their free tools and a bike. This session covered the basics of how to identify and care for tools and how to use the tools.
Lesson 2: Bike Maintenance. Students learnt how to identify mechanical issues and perform basic tune-ups on a bike, including cleaning.
Lesson 3: Replacing Bike Parts. Students practiced two of the most common part replacements: changing a flat tire and replacing a chain.
Lesson 4: Gears and Brakes. This lesson covered the operation and maintenance of gears and brakes and explored some tips for safe riding.
This fun educational program got kids excited about cycling and equipped them with the skills and confidence to take care of their bikes and keep riding safely for the years to come!