Women / Trans / Non-Binary Hours
Every Monday evening from 6-9 PM, Bikechain hosts Do-It-Yourself bicycle repair time exclusively for cyclists who are women, trans, and/or non-binary.
This program is working to change bike culture for the better by challenging stereotypes about who can be a cyclist, inspiring leadership of gender-marginalized people in cycling, and fostering a supportive peer-led environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does this program exist?
Research shows that girls and gender independent youth are discouraged from mechanics and sports at younger ages than little boys. Bike mechanic spaces have historically been cis male dominated and unwelcoming to people of other genders. All of this contributes to an environment where women, trans, and non-binary people are underrepresented in cycling. During WTNB hours, we offer space for traditionally-excluded cyclists to learn about bicycle repair in an affirming, encouraging space.
Do I have to sign up?
No! WTNB hours used to be by sign-up only, but we have now returned to drop-in. Come by anytime from 6-9 PM on Mondays.
Who is welcome?
Anyone who identifies as a woman, trans, non-binary, or otherwise “not-cis-male” person is welcome to attend WTNB hours. This includes (but is not limited to): cis women, trans women, trans men, genderqueer, two-spirit, non-binary, gender independent, questioning, and otherwise gender-marginalized cyclists.
Am I "woman enough" / "trans enough" to participate?
We use an inclusive definition of both “woman” and “trans”.
If you are wondering whether you are “woman enough” or “trans enough” to participate, the answer is yes!
Do you "check" people's gender at the door?
We never ask you to prove or explain your gender at the door. Every person entering the space during WTNB hours is notified that the space is reserved for women, trans, and non-binary cyclists for the evening. Self-identified cis men cyclists are encouraged to return during any of our regular DIY hours.
How can allies support?
Allies can show their support by respecting the closed space, creating an anti-oppressive environment at Bikechain all the time, educating themselves about issues faced by gender-marginalized cyclists, and explaining to others why it’s important that this program exists.