In the bustling neighborhoods of Grand Rapids, Michigan, a vibrant cycling culture is taking shape, spearheaded by the tireless efforts of Bike Scene. Founded in 2023 by Martel Posey and Liz Rennie, Bike Scene emerged from a shared vision of transforming communities through the power of bicycles. But what inspired this dynamic duo to embark on this journey, and what lies ahead for Bike Scene?
The Birth of Bike Scene
Bike Scene wasn't just born out of a passion for cycling; it was a response to a need within the community. Martel Posey and Liz Rennie, both avid cyclists and community advocates, noticed a gap in access to safe cycling and knowledge about bikes, particularly on the South side of Grand Rapids. Determined to bridge this gap, they founded Bike Scene with a mission to make cycling fun, accessible, and inclusive for all.
Our Mission: Building Community Through Bikes
At Bike Scene, our mission is simple yet profound: to build community through bikes. We believe that cycling has the power to transform not only individuals but entire neighborhoods. Through our three core pillars – Ride, Fix, and Learn – we aim to create a welcoming environment where everyone feels empowered to embrace cycling.
Ride:
Our inclusive community rides bring people of all ages and backgrounds together, fostering connections and friendships that transcend boundaries. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, our slow-roll style rides are designed to cater to everyone.
Fix:
We understand that not everyone has access to a bike shop or the resources to maintain their bicycles. That's why we offer free repairs at our pop-up events, ensuring that everyone in the community can ride confidently and safely.
Learn:
Knowledge is the key to unlocking the full potential of cycling. Through our Lunch and Learn classes, we empower community members with the skills and information they need to cycle safely and confidently. From basic bike maintenance to navigating city streets, we cover it all.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Bike Scene
As we pedal forward into the future, Bike Scene has big plans to expand and deepen our impact on the community. In 2024, we're rolling out new initiatives aimed at reaching even more people and making cycling an integral part of daily life in Grand Rapids.
Weekday Afternoon Pop-Up Events:
We understand that not everyone can attend weekend events, so we're introducing weekday afternoon pop-up events to accommodate busy schedules and engage with a wider audience.
After-School Pop-Up Repairs:
For young riders, getting their bikes fixed can be a challenge. That's why we're launching after-school pop-up repairs to provide convenient access to bike maintenance for students and families.
Community Engagement:
We're committed to listening to the needs and feedback of the community. Whether through surveys, town hall meetings, or social media, we want to ensure that Bike Scene remains a true reflection of the community it serves.
Join Us on the Journey
As Bike Scene continues to grow and evolve, we invite you to join us on this exciting journey. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist, a curious beginner, or simply passionate about building community, there's a place for you at Bike Scene. Together, let's pedal towards a healthier, happier, and more connected Grand Rapids.
Let's Ride, Fix, and Learn Together!
