Fix Your Bike With Jett Grrl

On the (very) rare day when the sun is out, I always think, "I really should get my bike out." But I know what awaits me: a grimy chain, flat tire, brakes that need to be adjusted...

Apparently, Jett Grrl could be my salvation. Not a superhero, simply the name of a bike repair shop / classroom owned by Tracy A. Myerson. Sure, she could tune up my bike for me, but "teach a girl to fix, and she'll ride for life" is more like her mandate. "Fixing has traditionally been thought of as men's work," says Myerson. "Women are not taught how to fix things, then they don't have the confidence to do it."

At the beginners' workshops, you can learn how to identify the various parts of your bike, how to do basic fixes, and how to maintain its good condition. By the end of the workshop, you'll feel more confident on your bike, and more knowledgeable when you need to visit the repair shop. For people who want more focused classes, there are brakes and gears workshops. Despite the feminine name, Jett Grrl is boy-friendly, too. Men are encouraged to attend; just check any attitudes at the door!

Myerson believes in empowering bicycle owners. "When I used to work in bike shops as a mechanic, I was asked to replace parts that didn't need to be replaced. It's like car mechanics. Shops make money by selling parts, not the labour. I didn't like that. I have too much world experience to not do what I believe in."

Footnote: Jett Grrl is seeking a new space to rent. If you know about one available, please contact Myerson here.

Photo by: Agasel