On June 10, 2023, Alexandria-based non-profit Vélocity Bike Co-op cut the ribbon on their new Lyon Park location at 2647 N. Pershing Drive. They replaced the Old Bike Shop, which had operated out of that space for at least 10 years before closing their doors earlier this year. 

The co-founder of Vélocity, Christian Meyers, thanked the Old Bike Shop owner, Larry Behery, for “…providing a home for quality used bike service and sales. Vélocity will build on this legacy and make safe, reliable bicycles more affordable to everyone.”

“Opening our second location provides a unique opportunity to realize our mission to grow and empower an inclusive biking community through education and affordability,” noted Joe Davison, the organization’s Board Chair. “We are honored to carry on and serve the biking community at this location while seeking continued synergy among the area’s cycling organizations, including Arlington-based non-profit Phoenix Bikes.”

While the two volunteer-driven organizations have similarities, volunteer John McClanahan differentiated the services between his non-profit and the work of Phoenix Bikes and emphasized they are not trying to compete but rather complement the work that Phoenix Bikes does in the community. Both organizations give away bikes to kids and adults, accept bike donations, and recycle and resell donated bikes and bike parts. The main difference is that while Phoenix works primarily with youth to build skills while earning a bike, Vélocity focuses chiefly on bike education and repair. They host public do-it-yourself repair workshops, offer bike repair services, and run a bicycle scholarship program to provide a safe and reliable means of transportation to low-income individuals.

Mike Pattisall, shop manager, will introduce himself at our September 13th LPCA meeting. Vélocity is always looking for volunteers. Visit their website for store hours and volunteer opportunities at https://velocitycoop.org.