Women's Bike Project opening later!

bristol | transport | announcement Saturday May 19, 2012 13:01 by Bikes thebristolbikeproject at gmail dot com

Women’s Night at the Bristol Bike Project is opening later!


Every Monday, FROM JUNE 6pm to 9pm, suggested donation £3 per session.

Sick of paying for repairs, want to know more, or just tired of that squeaking sound that your chain keeps making? This is for you! Bring your bike to fix, clean or just to give it a check over. This is an open workshop session run by women for women, to share knowledge of bicycle maintenance in a friendly, informal atmosphere and through learning by doing.

If you don’t have your own bike, or your bike is in perfect condition, you are still welcome to come by – there are plenty of bikes at the Project that need fixing up and you can work or learn on these. Of course, if you work on  bikes for the project, there is no charge.

This is an open workshop, so drop in any time between 6pm and 9pm, no need to book a space.

We have a large selection of 2nd hand parts here at the Project that you can purchase. If you know you need new tyres or brake pads please bring your own before coming.

Why a Women-Only Space?

Because it is important to be able to fix your own bike and not to have to rely on favours of male friends or the often quite expensive bike shop. The knowledge of mechanics has been historically gendered and segregated – that is, men (and boys) are encouraged to pursue technical and mechanical activities while women (and girls) are discouraged. As such, women are often seen as unable to use tools and hence not trusted to use them. Women are perfectly capable of carrying out mechanical tasks and it is very important for them to have the space to learn new skills and practice existing skills without assumptions about ability based on gender.

Because Feminism is not a dirty word, and sexism is still something that many women experience on a regular basis. Sexism is about how women are treated in society and their need to find spaces where the agenda, tone, atmosphere and debate isn’t always defined by men. It’s about finding space where women feel comfortable to speak, to express themselves, work together and find ways, and the mutual support needed, to challenge the oppression that women experience.

See the website for more details: http://www.thebristolbikeproject.org/our-workshops/womens-night/

Hamilton House, 80 Stokes Croft, Bristol, BS1 3QY

Please note that access to the project is on City Road at the back of Hamilton House.

For General Enquiries call 07983 417231 (No texts please!)