Bike Shop Now Open Three Days a Week

posted 8/26/19 -- LCCAA's youth-operated bike shop, inside the Ronald Nabakowski Youth Center at 204 W. 10th St., Lorain, is now open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 1 to 5 p.m.

Participants in LCCAA's Youth Service Program are fully trained an helping customers.

Franco Diaz brought his bike into the shop because he accidentally removed the valve stem in his inner tube while using a pump at the public library. The youth replaced the inner tube and discovered that the brakes had some issues. Franco admitted that his brakes were rubbing in the back for a while.

The youth replaced the brake cables and discovered that Franco had a bent brake adjuster barrel. After replacing that part as well, the youth inflated his tires to the proper levels.

"Franco was overwhelmed by the amount of dedication Kalib, Jonathan and Angel placed on his bike," said Youth Services Coordinator Bobby Taylor. "Franco told us that his bike is his only means of transportation. He said that he needs his bike to get to work every day."

Franco heard about the bike shop from a friend and also saw the shop on the news.

Training for the youth occurred all summer. In addition to working with Ed Stewart at the Elyria Bicycle Education Center, the group toured Fridrich Bicycle Shop in Cleveland. They saw everything from repair stations to the showroom.

Company tours, such as Fridrich, are part of the Youth Services Program which also offers group and individual mentoring. The program serves young men and women ages 16 to 24.

To learn more, visit the bike shop or contact Bobby Taylor at [email protected].