top of page

WHAT WE'VE BEEN UP TO:

We have been staying busy in the community doing mechanical support for rides, providing bicycle valet service at events, setting up our bicycle powered spin art bike and more. Get in touch if something like this would benefit your organization!​

Scrawl 19

September 20-21

We can’t emphasize enough how much we love our Franklinton community. ❤️🎨🚲 This past weekend we were thrilled to be part of Scrawl19, bringing bicycle powered spin art, live screen printing, and bike repair and education into the mix of incredible artists painting on site. Our Executive Director, Craig painted his own panel. He’s been part of Scrawl since its early days at Dodge Skatepark 19 years ago! Alongside our passion for bikes many of us at the shop are artists in different ways, so it’s always special when those worlds come together. We’re grateful for such a supportive community and proud to be part of this dynamic group of artists, builders, makers and shakers. The rain ended the event early Sunday but even that didn’t stop the fun. Everyone pitched in to help save the paintings and tear everything down with smiles and laughter carrying into the after party at Sweeneys. We can’t wait til next year! ❤️ Photo credit to the amazingly talented https://www.melodykayphoto.com/

Nordecke Goes Green

July 25th 2025

Nordecke Goes Green We had a blast partnering with Nordecke, COTA and Yay Bikes for Nordecke Goes Green. What an incredible community! Ed and Craig designed a limited edition shirt and stickers for the event. It’s always better to bike, bus or walk to the match. Skip the traffic and let our dudes keep your bike safe at our bike valet located at the end of the Olentangy bridge connector. Come say hi and don’t forget to grab a Land Grant Massive Hazy IPA. See you there!

Bike Rides!

Summer 2025

Our crew is always pedaling around in one way or another. At the shop you’ll find a wide variety of bike people from BMX riders to road cyclists to mountain bikers to commuters to hobbyists and everything in between. Stop by and chat with us! Columbus has a wonderful community of group rides and organizations and we’d love to help you connect and find your pack.

New Shop Murals

Summer 2025

We’ve seen big changes to our space. Thanks to support from the Greater Columbus Arts Council, two large-scale murals now add vibrant new life to our building. Sam Rietenbach took on what started as a 75-foot section of our courtyard wall, and kept going. He ultimately painted 125 feet wide by 30 feet tall, transforming the once-blank zone into a colorful and inviting space. Fia Soisson completed a playful mural on Broad Street that doubles as a pictorial map of Columbus bike infrastructure. With fun doodles and landmark illustrations, it captures the spirit of the city and the joy of riding through it.

Pelotonia

Aug 2025

Pelotonia 2025 - RTRX Fleet Management We’ve had a busy few weeks prepping and transporting the 120 bike fleet for RTRX then making sure they were all good to go for Pelotonia 🚲💚 We shared a big tent village with our pals at COMBO and their army of volunteer mechanics, who tuned 350 bikes for another fleet, along with a few folks from Third Hand Bicycle Co-op and the rest of the volunteer mechanics who showed up with their own tools to help get everyone ready for Saturday’s ride. Great to see that many wrenches spinning at once! It’s always a good time and it’s all for a great cause. We can’t wait til next year!

Linc Academy-Kickoff to Summer

June 21st, 2025

Our neighbors David and Stephanie from LINC Academy stopped by to pick up some bikes for their Kickoff to Summer event that we’ll be part of this Saturday. We donated a bike for their raffle as well as a few safety accessories to help get more kids rolling. The event is free and family friendly so if you’re looking for something to do with the kids stop by 33 Grubb Street Saturday between 11am and 2pm! From LINC Academy: “Where Tomorrows Leaders Learn LINC Academy is a free public elementary school dedicated to providing every child with personalized attention in a supportive learning environment where they can thrive. In our small school setting, your child will receive the individualized support they need to excel academically and socially. Our approach is rooted in the belief that students deserve to be valued, seen, and known by their school community. As a community, educators, students, and families work collaboratively to ensure that students receive a high-quality education to prepare them for their future endeavors as the next generation of great leaders.”

Pedal for Pancakes

June 14th, 2025

Bexley Pelotonia-Pedal for Pancakes Over the weekend we were out in Bexley with the spin art bike and offering light mechanical support for Pedal for Pancakes 🚲🥞💚 We all had a blast! Nothing brings back childhood memories like a bunch of kids on bikes and the smell of pancakes in the air. And the best part is, it was all for a great cause. Pedal for Pancakes is a kids-only ride and community-wide pancake breakfast hosted by Team Bexley as part of Pelotonia Kids. Funds raised support pediatric cancer research at Nationwide Childrens Hospital through OSUCCC. We’re proud to have been a part of it and are so grateful to Team Bexley and Pelotonia for having us along for the ride!

Strawberry Jam

May 2025

Bicycle-powered spin art was a huge hit at Strawberry Jam! The adults had just as much fun as the kids! Big thanks to Land Grant Brewing and Jeni's Ice Cream for having us be part of the fun!

Glouster Bike Clinic

May 2025

We took a trip to Athens County to help out at a bicycle repair clinic at the Glouster branch of Athens County Public Libraries. Our new director, Craig, co-founded the free bike repair clinic in Glouster a few years back, near the Baileys trail system, working with local volunteers to help kids get bikes and keep them rolling. Today, Athens County Public Libraries, Athens Bicycle Club, and the Athens County Creating Healthy Communities Coalition partner to keep the event going strong and help more people stay on two wheels. We had a great time and look forward to working with them more in the future!

The Great Bike Adventure

April - May 2025

The Great Bike Adventure is a hands-on cycling program for 5th graders at Avondale Elementary, focused on building bike skills, safety awareness, independence, and a love for the outdoors. Ahead of the big ride, we helped students get fitted for helmets and practiced group riding on a closed course right outside their school. The kids also took part in a t-shirt design contest—our graphic designer helped bring the winning design to life, and students got to see their shirts come to life during a live screen printing demo. The main event was a ride along the Camp Chase Trail starting at Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park, led by teachers, chaperones, and FCW staff. Thanks to generous support from Columbus Blue Jackets, Central Midwest Carpenters Union, each student received a brand new bike, helmet, lock, lights, and a custom tee to take home. Earlier in the spring, students even got to attend a Blue Jackets game, where they revealed a giant check on the jumbotron and were surprised with their new bikes—unveiled with help from the CBJ cheerleaders and our crew here at FCW. It was a joyful, empowering experience we won’t soon forget. There’s nothing better than getting kids on bikes and into the world.

We have been staying busy in the community doing mechanical support for rides, providing bicycle valet service at events, setting up our bicycle powered spin art bike, live screen printing and more! Get in touch if something like this would benefit your organization!​

GET ROLLING! 

Whether you’re brand new to bicycles, facing hardship and need reliable transportation, curious to give biking a try, or looking to get into road riding without the high price tag, FCW has something for you. From seasoned commuters to professional mechanics and everyone in between, you’ll find what you need here or we’ll help point you in the right direction. Get your bike professionally serviced, shop for a new or refurbished ride, or use our community workspace to work on your own bike with guidance from our mechanics.

Screenshot 2025-03-24 at 8.37.28 PM.png

Bicycle Service

Need help getting your bike back in shape? Bring it in for a tune-up or let one of our mechanics recommend the right fix to keep you rolling smoothly.

IMG_9272.jpeg

Bicycle Sales

Looking for a new ride? We offer affordable new and refurbished bikes and e-bikes for everything from casual riding to commuting and fitness.

IMG_9252.jpeg

Open Shop

Want to wrench on your own bike? Use our community workspace with stands, tools and friendly mechanics who can guide you through the process.

How to Help

Franklinton Cycle Works thrives because of the support of our community. We are more than just a bike shop. We are a space where people learn, share and connect. Our ability to keep bikes affordable, provide tools and education and empower people who depend on cycling for everyday transportation is only possible because of people like you. There are three main ways to get involved: donate bikes and gear, donate your time or donate money.

HOW TO HELP! 

Franklinton Cycle Works thrives because of the support of our community. We are more than just a bike shop. We are a space where people learn, share and connect. Our ability to keep bikes affordable, provide tools and education and empower people who depend on cycling for everyday transportation is only possible because of people like you. There are three main ways to get involved: donate bikes and gear, donate your time or donate money.

refurbished bikes.jpeg

Donate a Bike, Parts or Accessories

Every donated bicycle is an invaluable resource. We refurbish many to provide affordable transportation, support our Bicycles for Independence program or offer them “as-is” at very low prices. Accessories like helmets, locks, lights and components are always needed, as are everyday items like rags, milk crates and storage totes. If we cannot use something directly we make sure it goes to someone who can. Stop by during our normal business hours to drop off your donations. If you need a pickup just reach out and we can schedule a time that works. We will happily provide a donation receipt.

FCW_Promo_031616-120.jpg

Donate Your Time

At FCW bike repair is a cooperative effort built around relationships and shared learning. Our volunteers range from experienced mechanics to people just beginning to learn but everyone has something to offer. Whether you are teaching, fixing, organizing or just showing up to help you are building community and empowering others.

03042017_FCW_Promo_Images-150.jpg

Donate Money

Financial support ensures that we can continue offering affordable bikes, tools and education to people who depend on cycling for daily transportation. Your contribution keeps our shop open and accessible while building a stronger and more connected neighborhood one bike at a time.

PARTNER WITH FCW

No matter the size of your event—big or small—Franklinton Cycle Works is here to help.
Our friendly staff will bring convenience, peace of mind, and sustainability to your gathering, ensuring a unique, fun, and bike-friendly experience for everyone.

From festivals and community fairs to corporate events and neighborhood gatherings, FCW is excited to partner with you and make your event a success.

 

Screenshot 2025-10-03 at 8.55.18 PM.png

Bicycle Powered Spin Art

Who doesn’t love spin art? Our bicycle-powered spin art station is a hit with kids and adults alike. We do the pedaling while you create your colorful masterpiece. A few pedal strokes spin the platter, flinging paint into dazzling spirals, circles and streaks. Spin Art is surprisingly addictive and adds color and energy to any event. Kids gather around, watching in awe as paint splatters across the paper to create vibrant, one-of-a-kind designs. Because it takes little power to spin the paper, it’s perfect for pedal power with kids, even the youngest riders. It’s a fun way to bring art, activity and creativity together on two wheels.

Screenshot 2025-10-02 at 4.38.00 PM.png

Bicycle Valet

Need a Parking Solution for Your Next Event? Make your event more sustainable and stress free with our bike valet service. We provide secure and convenient bicycle parking for major events like every Columbus Crew home game, the Columbus Arts Festival and Bike the Cbus. Our valet service: • Supports active transportation and greener communities • Reduces traffic congestion and parking headaches • Creates a safe dedicated space for riders • Makes your event more accessible and enjoyable for everyone Whether your event is large or small, we can help make it easier, greener and more welcoming for cyclists. Get in touch with us today to see how we can support your next event.

Screenshot 2025-10-03 at 8.56.45 PM.png

On-Site Screen Printing

Screen printing is a creative and interactive way to make any event stand out. We bring everything needed to print custom designs on-site, giving guests the chance to watch their artwork come to life and take home a unique print. It’s a fun and memorable way to add energy, creativity and a personal touch to your event. If you need artwork for your event or organization, we can help with that too. Our team includes multiple designers who ended up here simply because they love bikes.

Screenshot 2025-10-02 at 4.56.39 PM.png

Mobile Mechanic Services & Repair Classes

We offer mechanical education for groups of all sizes. Whether it is youth or adults, a small group or your entire company, our capable and knowledgeable team can teach everything from the basics like lubing your chain and changing a tube to more advanced skills such as drivetrain overhauls and component upgrades. Our hands-on approach ensures participants gain confidence and practical experience so they can maintain and repair their bikes with ease. We can tailor each session to meet your specific needs.

KEEP UP WITH US ON INSTAGRAM
@FRANKLINTONCYCLEWORKS

FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE!

We’ve been documenting our journey on YouTube, sharing stories from the shop, community events, rides, and everything in between. It’s a great way to get a closer look at what we do and the people who make it all happen. Follow us to keep up with new videos, and help us spread the word by sharing them with your friends. Every view, like and share helps grow our community and keep the wheels turning! 
 

TESTIMONIES

Steven’s Story

Steven’s good buddy Jim brought him in to find a replacement trike that could handle the big hill leading to his home and his favorite fishing spot. We set him up with an electric trike and delivered it to him in Mt. Vernon. Steven quickly named the bike, "Thunderbird" and it has changed everything.
 

“Update on Steven: ever since he got that electric bike I never see him anymore he’s out fishing every day lol. This bike has truly changed his life” - Jim


With Steven's bike, Thunderbird , he has the freedom to get around on his own and enjoy a better quality of life.

IMG_0376 copy.jpeg

TESTIMONIES

The Great Bike Adventure - End of Summer Follow Up

The Great Bike Adventure in the spring provided 5th grade students with bikes to take home and support an active lifestyle. We checked in with some of the students after the summer and were thrilled to hear how much they love their bikes.
 

"The summer has been full of rides for Justin, Gabriel, and Kaiden. While Justin received his bike a year before Gabriel and Kaiden, they are all thankful and enjoying every ride. Kudos to Franklinton Cycle Works for making it possible!"
 

We are looking forward to the next chapter of this program and continuing to help kids get rolling.

Screenshot 2025-10-02 at 5.33.59 PM.png

TESTIMONIES

Bikes For Independence

“The bike actually saved me.”

A few weeks ago NBC4i featured our Bikes for Independence program, a powerful reminder that access to transportation can change lives. In the words of Jerry, a recent participant: “I’d be a mess right now without it. The bike got me to work, helped me get stable housing and gave me something to hold onto.”

 

Read the whole story here.

Since 2010 Franklinton Cycle Works has empowered hundreds through access to bikes, repair education and community. But with recent funding challenges, we can’t keep programs like this going without your support.

Screenshot 2025-10-02 at 5.16.40 PM.png

KEEP UP WITH US ON INSTAGRAM
@FRANKLINTONCYCLEWORKS

TESTIMONIALS

The Great Bike Adventure

Thanks to The Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation and Central Midwest Carpenters Union, we were able to provide the 5th grade class from Avondale Elementary with 30 bikes, locks, lights, helmets and a t-shirt in school colors that they got to take home after the big ride! The Great Bike Adventure is an opportunity for students at Avondale Elementary to experience a bike adventure while learning cycling skills, bike safety, independence, and an appreciation for the great outdoors. What a great day! There isn’t much we love more than getting kids on bikes, and we’re proud to be a part of something like this.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE!

WHAT WE'VE BEEN UP TO: 

Bikes For Independence

“The bike actually saved me.”

A few weeks ago NBC4i featured our Bikes for Independence program, a powerful reminder that access to transportation can change lives. In the words of Jerry, a recent participant: “I’d be a mess right now without it. The bike got me to work, helped me get stable housing and gave me something to hold onto.”

Since 2010 Franklinton Cycle Works has empowered hundreds through access to bikes, repair education and community. But with recent funding challenges, we can’t keep programs like this going without your support.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

WHAT WE'VE BEEN UP TO:

Pelotonia Fleet Management - RTRX

We’ve had a busy few weeks prepping and transporting the 120 bike fleet for RTRX then making sure they were all good to go for ‪Pelotonia‬. 🚲💚 We shared a big tent village with our pals at COMBO and their army of volunteer mechanics, who tuned 350 bikes for another fleet, along with a few folks from Third Hand Bicycle Co-op and the rest of the volunteer mechanics who showed up with their own tools to help get everyone ready for Saturday’s ride. Great to see that many wrenches spinning at once!

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

TESTIMONIES

Steven’s Story

Steven’s good buddy Jim brought him in to find a replacement trike that could handle the big hill leading to his home and his favorite fishing spot. We set him up with an electric trike he named Thunderbird and it has changed everything.
 

“Update on Steven: ever since he got that electric bike I never see him anymore he’s out fishing every day lol.” - Jim


With Thunderbird Steven has the freedom to get around on his own and enjoy a better quality of life.

Pink Poppy Flowers

TESTIMONIES

TESTIMONIES

The Great Bike Adventure - End of Summer Follow Up

The Great Bike Adventure in the spring provided 5th grade students with bikes to take home and support an active lifestyle. We checked in with some of the students after the summer and were thrilled to hear how much they love their bikes.
 

"The summer has been full of rides for Justin, Gabriel, and Kaiden. While Justin received his bike a year before Gabriel and Kaiden, they are all thankful and enjoying every ride. Kudos to Franklinton Cycle Works for making it possible!"
 

We are looking forward to the next chapter of this program and continuing to help kids get rolling.

Screenshot 2025-10-02 at 5.33.59 PM.png

TESTIMONIES

TESTIMONIES

Bikes For Independence

“The bike actually saved me.”

A few weeks ago NBC4i featured our Bikes for Independence program, a powerful reminder that access to transportation can change lives. In the words of Jerry, a recent participant: “I’d be a mess right now without it. The bike got me to work, helped me get stable housing and gave me something to hold onto.”

 

Read the whole story here.

Since 2010 Franklinton Cycle Works has empowered hundreds through access to bikes, repair education and community. But with recent funding challenges, we can’t keep programs like this going without your support.

Screenshot 2025-10-02 at 5.16.40 PM.png

TESTIMONIES

  • Does FCW buy bikes? 

    No. We don’t purchase bikes. FCW is a nonprofit bike co-op and we rely on donations of bicycles, parts and accessories to support our mission.

    Does FCW trade for bikes?

    No, we don’t offer trades.

    How do I donate a bike or parts?

    Just stop by during our regular business hours. No appointment needed! If you don’t have a way to drop off your donations, reach out and we’ll coordinate a pickup.

    What do you take as donations?

    Almost anything bike-related: bikes, parts, gear, tools and hardware. Clothing should be washed before donating to help prevent the spread of germs. We can also use shop supplies like shelving, storage bins (milk crates, kitty litter tubs etc.) and rags. If you’re not sure about a large item just give us a call first.

    Are donations tax-deductable? 

    Yes! FCW is a registered nonprofit so your donations are tax-deductible. Just ask us for a receipt when you drop items off.

    Does FCW give away free bikes? 

    Yes and no. We offer bikes for free or close to free through specific programs that help community members in need. We also sell “as is” bikes at very affordable prices and we refurbish and sell donated bikes to keep the shop sustainable.

    Can I volunteer?

    Absolutely. Volunteers are the backbone of FCW. Whether you’re a skilled mechanic or brand new to bikes there’s a way to help out. Check out our volunteer portal on Point to get started.

    Do you teach people how to fix their bikes?

    Yes, education is part of our mission. We offer open shop hours with one-on-one guidance. Our education platform is being reworked so at the moment one-on-one time is limited.

    Where does the money from bike sales and parts go?

    All proceeds go right back into supporting our community programs, keeping our shop running and getting more people on bikes.

bottom of page