Adult Volunteering
Wrench alongside our crew, greet donors, or help run the shop floor on any open night.
Learn more →
Detroit-based · Volunteer-powered · Since 1998
Every bike fixed here keeps someone rolling.
Back Alley Bikes is Detroit's community bike shop - teaching repair skills, giving kids their first bike, and turning donated parts into transportation for our neighbors.
1,000+bikes rebuilt each year
600+kids earn a bike annually
25years wrenching in Detroit
Why we're here
Bikes are transportation, freedom, and community - we make sure everyone has access.
Back Alley Bikes began in 1999 as a youth transportation project and quickly grew into a community bike workshop offering free repair and Earn-A-Bike programs. In 2008, The Hub of Detroit opened to support the shop financially, allowing BAB to expand year‑round youth programming and volunteer‑powered bike giveaways. Today, it remains a community space where Detroiters learn mechanics, earn bikes, and build confidence.
Read our full story →
Programs
Five ways to get your hands greasy.
Every program is volunteer-run and open to the community - no experience required, just curiosity and a willingness to learn.
Wrench Learn & Give
Free hands-on repair classes build the skills to fix your own ride for good.
Learn more →WTF Night
Women, Trans & Femme open shop night a welcoming space to wrench and build confidence.
Learn more →Kids' Bikes Give-A-Way
Refurbished bikes given directly to Detroit kids who need one.
Learn more →Youth Earn-A-Bike
Teens complete a hands-on repair curriculum and ride away with the bike they built.
Learn more →Your old bike could be someone's first ride.
Cash gifts keep the lights on and the tools sharp. Bike and part donations go straight into repair — every contribution turns into transportation for a Detroit neighbor.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
What are your hours?
The shop floor is open Tuesday through Saturday. Full seasonal hours are listed on our Hours page.
How do I start volunteering?
Drop in during any open shop night - no sign-up required for your first visit. See our Volunteering page for details on ongoing roles.
Who's eligible for Youth Earn-A-Bike?
Any Detroit youth ages 9 to 17 can join - check Youth Eligibility for the full program requirements.
What can I donate?
Complete bikes, usable parts, and tools are always welcome. Full guidelines are on our Donation Rules page.
Part of The Hub of Detroit
Back Alley Bikes operates under The Hub of Detroit, a collective of grassroots organizations sharing space, tools, and mission on Detroit's east side.