About RBP
Mission:
Reno Bike Project, a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation, is committed to promoting the benefits of bicycles as an energy-efficient, economical, non-polluting form of transportation, and as a healthy lifestyle choice, by providing access to affordable equipment and education throughout the Truckee Meadows.
Reno Bike Project achieves its mission by:
- Making cycling more accessible through recycling and recirculation of used bikes into the community at affordable prices.
- Holding bike mechanics workshops and advocating for knowledge of cyclist rights.
- Encouraging self-sufficiency by providing a space for community members to repair their own bicycles rather than incur maintenance costs.
- Working with public officials and organizations to advocate for cycling rights and growth in the Truckee Meadows.
Promoting and holding events encouraging bicycle activism.
Complementing other local groups to encourage youth safety and cycling-related arts and culture, and contributing to Reno’s continual growth as a diverse and vibrant community.
History
Noah Silverman and Kyle Kozar founded Reno Bike Project (RBP) in October 2006 with the mission of getting people onto bicycles. An intrinsically young organization, 26-year-old Silverman and 23-year-old Kozar amassed a large group of volunteers in their mid-to-late twenties to solicit donated bicycles to be fixed up and made available to the public. On November 18, 2006 RBP hosted its first event — “Bike-Out or Strike-Out.” The day-long celebration of urban cycling culture gave RBP an opportunity to be highly visible in the community and raise people’s awareness of bicycle use. Responding to the enthusiasm for alternative transportation, a small shop was set up in a basement for volunteers to congregate and repair bicycles. Over time, RBP continued to solidify, growing its volunteer base, increasing bike donations, and incorporating with the State of Nevada, finding fiscal sponsorship, and continuing in its grassroots community outreach campaign.
Throughout the subsequent two years Reno Bike Project has moved into four different locations in an effort to find the perfect shop headquarters. RBP’s current and permanent home is located at 541 E. 4th St. It has gained non-profit 501(c)(3) status and diversified its funding resources. RBP has hosted several annual events promoting cycling and culture, like Bike-Out or Strike-Out, We heART Bikes Art Show (sponsored by New Belgium Brewing Company), Bike to Work Day Pancake Feed (in conjunction with the Clean Air Commission), and Bike Valet (with Nevada EcoNet, Art Town, and the City of Reno), in addition to various other projects and events. Further, it hosts several bike maintenance related workshops and classes, including “Build-a-Bike” and “Women with Wrenches” (Ladies Volunteer Night).
Created to help give people the ability to help themselves. RBP was conceived as an organization to help people get onto bicycles. But we also have a great ability to empower people to help themselves and increase their ability to do so. As Reno Bike Project grows it will continue to encourage people to ride bikes as a daily activity and build a community where all cyclists, from the recreational rider to commuters to competitive cyclists, can come together to celebrate the bicycle as a resource of enjoyment and sustainable living. RBP continues to help redefine Reno as a bicycle-friendly city.
