Pedal Forward: Local transportation equity program expands bike shop
What began as a small effort to refurbish donated bicycles for adults in need has evolved into a full-service community bike shop serving riders from across the Mahoning Valley while generating revenue to sustain transportation equity work.
A Youngstown-based nonprofit, Thrive Mahoning Valley, has a transportation equity program aimed at providing free bicycles to adults who need reliable transportation to work, school and essential services.
It’s called Pedal Forward, which has grown into a fully established social enterprise bike shop called the Pedal Forward Bike Shop by becoming an authorized retailer and repair partner.
Christopher Colón is the executive director for Thrive Mahoning Valley.
“These efforts are only possible because of the generosity of local residents, donors, and partners who believe that transportation should never be a barrier to opportunity,” he said.
Pedal Forward Bike Shop is housed at Thrive Mahoning Valley’s office at 854 Wilson Ave. in Youngstown, open from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday, with appointments available on Fridays for sales and service.
Riders can browse new and used bikes, schedule repairs, or learn more about the program during open hours.
Every purchase and repair at Pedal Forward directly supports free bikes, safety gear and cycling engagement for neighbors facing transportation barriers.
The Pedal Forward Bike Shop now offers:
- New bikes: As an authorized retailer for State Bicycle Co., the shop stocks new bicycles for casual riders, commuters, and those ready for entry-level all-road adventures or bikepacking across Ohio and beyond. Prices currently range from $540 to $999
- Used bikes: A wide range of refurbished bikes donated by community members, including vintage road bikes, modern road bikes, mountain, hybrid, and triathlon bikes. Prices currently range from $120 to $400.
- Repair & maintenance services: By-appointment services include flat repair and tube replacement, complete tune-ups, general maintenance, wheel truing, cosmetic adjustments and replacements, and more to keep riders safe on the road. Prices are comparable or lower than other bike shops in the area.
When customers choose Pedal Forward for sales, service and gently used bicycles donations, they help fund bikes for adults who rely on cycling as their primary mode of transportation to jobs, medical appointments and community resources.
Pedal Forward accepts donations of gently-used or new adult bicycles, new bicycle parts, new helmets and locks.
